ACADEMIC JOURNEY

I just submitted my PhD thesis and am awaiting my examination results. This is the perfect time to reflect on my ​academic journey. I have developed a strong interest in three major disciplines: International Relations, Media and ​Communication, and Sinhala Language. My journey began with studying International Relations and Political ​Science during my advanced-level studies, eventually leading to a BA in International Relations. I also studied ​Communication and Media and Sinhala Language as minor subjects in my BA (Hons) degree. Although I haven’t ​formally studied cinema and psychology, they have become passions that I explore through self-study.

 

After completing my undergraduate degree, I was recognised as the top student in the 2018 International Relations ​batch at the University of Colombo. I received several awards for my academic performance, dissertation, and ​contributions to the community, including the Peace Prize. My academic journey at Deakin University began in ​2019 when I enrolled in the Deakin English Language Institute to improve my Academic English. I completed English ​for Academic Purposes Level 4, scoring 82% and excelling in speaking, listening, reading, and academic writing. ​Initially, I planned to complete my Master’s in International Relations and then pursue a PhD. However, after ​consulting with my course lecturer during my first semester, I applied for PhD opportunities. By the end of 2019, I ​was offered a PhD in International Relations with a full postgraduate scholarship from Deakin.

 

My PhD journey began in 2020 during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This challenging period tested my ​resilience and motivated me to persevere. I learned the importance of seeking help and support in times of crisis—a ​lesson that transformed my approach to learning. The supportive learning culture at Deakin encouraged me to seek ​assistance when needed, helping me balance academic and personal stresses.

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My PhD journey at Deakin was incredibly rewarding. As a recipient of the Deakin Postgraduate Scholarship ​program, I received extensive research and professional training through the PhD Xtra initiative. The Individual ​Learning Plan (ILP) was a valuable tool for enhancing my skills and knowledge at various stages of my academic ​journey. I completed training in ethics, academic integrity, literature review methods, research skills, and thesis ​copyright. I also learned to use research software like Endnote and Nvivo. Beyond academic training, I ​developed my communication skills, emotional intelligence, and employability through professional skills ​training on the ILP platform.

 

One of the major goals of my academic journey was to seize opportunities to share my knowledge and research ​with academic communities. Presenting my thesis at the Deakin HDR Conference, participating in the "Pitch it ​Clever" research video competition, and presenting my findings at the Deakin International Relations Master’s ​Degree Convocation and the Sri Lanka-Japan Academic Association Annual Conference allowed me to grow as ​an academic and researcher. The valuable feedback I received helped shape my research skills and improve my ​work. The summer program in Applied Diplomacy at Concordia University provided a unique opportunity to ​learn from top diplomats, officials, and intellectuals and to build a strong professional network.

 

Within Deakin, I sought opportunities to contribute to the university community. I worked as a peer mentor and ​student leader, which helped me develop my leadership and mentoring skills. I also served as an assistant tutor ​and marker for the United Nations and Contemporary China units. These roles provided valuable insights into ​Australian work culture and values while enhancing my teaching and assessment skills. My experience at ​Deakin has made me realise the importance of independent learning and real-world experiences, which are the ​pillars of my journey toward achieving my full potential.

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