Rojie Ekanayake

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? 

While I had the foundational knowledge of economics from my bachelor's degree, I was interested in furthering it to support my career in policy-oriented research. I selected the programme at Leeds because it offered not only the core subjects that an economics graduate needs, but also elective units that aligned with my goals.   

What did you enjoy the most about your course? 

There were many highlights to my course. The staff were very friendly and helpful, with many providing extra support to those that required it during tutorials and office hours. Students were encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification when needed and be critical in their thinking. The course content was also engaging. It provided sufficient structure to the course while also being flexible enough to allow students to play to their strengths and utilise their personal experiences. 

What did you enjoy most about your life as a student at the University of Leeds? 

As the course representative, I had the opportunity to act as somewhat of a bridge between students and staff, and in doing so, I was able to interact with a diverse range people. I also initiated a few social events for the cohort including a Christmas gathering and farewell party so that the students could relax and have some fun. I also immensely enjoyed my time at my on-campus student accommodation. 

I was also a member of the Karate Society. Although a novice, with time I became confident enough to participate in a grading exam and compete in several events including the British Universities and Colleges Sport competition, thanks to a great deal of support from my team and coaches.  

How did your time at Leeds prepare you for the future? 

My time at Leeds provided me with the technical knowledge and skills I sought to advance my career from a junior research professional into more senior roles. I was able to meet and network with highly qualified and capable individuals some of whom have continued to support my professional goals even beyond my time at Leeds. 

Moreover, it was an opportunity for personal growth. I was able to recognise my own inner strength and push myself to my limits. I put myself in uncomfortable situations and challenged myself to overcome them. Even now, on difficult days I am able to look back to my time in Leeds and motivate myself to keep going. 

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? 

Given that my study at Leeds was funded by a Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, I returned to Sri Lanka as soon as I completed my programme. I then joined a start-up think tank focused on economic policy and education as its first employee. During my two years at this organisation, I was able to lead a number of research and education related projects. These included a research report on wealth taxation in Sri Lanka; a collaboration to promote economic civic education among youth and an interactive exhibit on Sri Lanka's recent economic crisis. 

Following this, I was able to take on independent research consultancy work on a range of topics such as export sector employment, AI's impacts on job markets and the economics of ageing societies. At the same time, I have had the opportunity to volunteer with various organisations focusing on pertinent environmental and social issues in my leisure. 

More recently I was accepted into an integrated PhD programme at the Monash Business School's Centre for Health Economics. 

What are your ambitions for the future? 

I hope to complete the PhD programme I have undertaken and continue my work in research and academia. I would like to improve my skills and competencies so that my work can reach a much higher calibre in terms of quality and impact.  I would also like to be involved in supporting the next generation in achieving their own endeavours.