From a Rural Seaside Village to Shaping Global Development Solutions:
A Transformative Journey at the Department of Regional Development Studies.

Profile

Name: Wachchi Hannadige Nipuna Tharuka Ravinath.

Graduation year: 2022.

Seminar: Robert Hughes.

Work: Consultant in regional and environmental planning.

Roots by the Sea

 I was born in a small seaside village on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. While my village was relatively untouched by the civil war that impacted much of the country, I grew up in an environment shaped by the broader social challenges faced by Sri Lanka. My parents, like many others in developing countries, encouraged me to pursue a career in medicine—a profession they believed would guarantee success. So, I worked hard throughout school, convinced that becoming a medical doctor was the best way for me to contribute to society.

 While I was in high school, I realized that medicine was not my passion. Yet, my desire to make a meaningful difference in the world never wavered, even though I wasn’t entirely sure how to go about it. I quickly learned that finding a clear purpose is not always easy. I decided that the best way to discover what truly motivated me was to explore different fields and experiences. This led me to study banking and finance, and eventually to a job at a multinational bank.

 Around the same time, I became involved in an international project that supported economically disadvantaged schoolchildren in Sri Lanka. I started as a volunteer and eventually became the Sri Lankan project coordinator. This role in the project gave me a new perspective on the issues faced by many people in rural areas. I began to realize how social, economic, and cultural challenges are interwoven, and that these issues often require collaborative and sustainable solutions. This experience changed the course of my life, and I knew that I wanted to dedicate myself to improving the lives of those facing these challenges. From that moment, I focused on rural and regional development, seeking ways to better understand and address these complex issues.

A Gateway to Global Impact

 It was during this time of self-reflection that I came across the TOYO TOP Global Scholarship Program. I had heard that it was a fully funded opportunity to study global development in the Department of Regional Development Studies at Toyo University. It felt like a rare and incredible chance to expand my understanding of the world’s development challenges.

 I learned that Toyo University offered a limited number of scholarships. I decided to apply, though I was unsure if I had the qualifications or experience to stand out among the many talented applicants. To my surprise and gratitude, I was selected as a full scholarship recipient in the Department of Regional and Development Studies (RDS) in 2018. Receiving this scholarship was overwhelming, and I immediately felt both grateful and humbled to have the chance to study at a prestigious institution. I also felt a strong sense of responsibility to make the most of this opportunity, not only for my own growth but also to give back to both Sri Lanka and Japan.

Settling into Toyo University and Embracing Global Perspectives

 When I arrived at Toyo University in March 2018, I was nervous. I found myself surrounded by scholarship recipients from all over the world, each with impressive backgrounds and experiences. It was clear that I had a lot to learn from them. Many of my peers were deeply passionate, highly intelligent, and had been exposed to a wide range of global issues. Initially, I felt like an outsider, unsure of how I could contribute to conversations that spanned from philosophy to social, and political issues to environmental sustainability.

 However, gradually, through our discussions at university and in the dormitories, I learned to listen, engage, and appreciate perspectives different from my own. These conversations helped me grow not just academically, but personally, as I began to see the world in a more nuanced way. It taught me the importance of approaching problems with an open mind, which would prove invaluable throughout my studies and beyond.

Beyond the Classroom and Personal Transformation

 In addition to my academic studies, I became involved in several extracurricular activities at Toyo University, such as organizing university events, joining internships, volunteering in various community projects, and even volunteering for the Tokyo Olympics. I also served as a staff member and later became a leader in the English Community Zone, where I had the opportunity to interact with students from all over the world and help organize language exchange activities and monthly events. Leading these activities felt intimidating at first, especially since I felt out of my depth; however, I quickly learned that trying, even when uncertain, is an important part of growth.

 I also realized that university is a place where you are meant to challenge yourself and explore new opportunities, even if they seem daunting at first. I learned to take risks—not because I was confident or guaranteed success, but because trying to push my boundaries was essential for personal development. In doing so, I discovered strengths I didn’t know I had and areas I needed to improve. Ultimately, my time at university was about more than just academics—it was about developing as a person and learning how to approach the world with humility and curiosity.

A Deep Dive into Global Challenges

 Toyo’s Department of Regional Development Studies course was an eye-opening experience for me. The courses tackled topics related to the environment, sanitation, housing, transportation, social justice, and various socio-economic issues. Growing up in Sri Lanka, I had witnessed many of these issues firsthand, but the program helped me understand their deeper causes and the interconnectedness of these problems.

  One course that had a profound impact on me was a seminar with Professor Robert Hughes, whose focus on critical analysis of social issues made me reflect on my own assumptions and biases. His class challenged me to question my thinking and approach issues from different angles, which was humbling. I learned to ask better questions and to look deeper into the root causes of problems, rather than just accepting surface-level explanations. Thanks to the guidance of professors and the intellectual environment at RDS, I graduated at the top of my department, with an award for my thesis. Later, I was fortunate enough to continue my studies with a master’s degree in policy science, as a Japanese government scholarship recipient.

Professional Experience: Bridging Theory and Practice

 Currently, I work as a consultant in regional and environmental planning, focusing on projects that tackle development, revitalization, and environmental challenges in both Japan and developing countries, including Sri Lanka. My role allows me to work closely with local communities and develop strategies that aim to improve environmental sustainability and quality of life. Looking back, although I was not aware during my university days, I can see how my time at Toyo University prepared me for this work. The academic training, the cultural exchanges, the people I met, and the practical experiences I received in different settings in RDS have shaped the way I approach my professional life today.

 When I first entered university, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to succeed in such a competitive environment. But with the support of my professors in RDS, mentors, and friends, I gradually gained confidence. Reflecting on my journey, I realize how much I have grown and how much my time at Toyo University has shaped both my career and my worldview.

Advice for Current Students

 My advice is simple: university is about more than just getting a degree. It’s about growth—both intellectual and personal. While academic success is important, take the time to explore new experiences, push your boundaries, and learn from your mistakes. Failure is not something to fear; it’s an inevitable part of the learning process. In fact, some of the most valuable opportunities in my life came from unexpected setbacks.

 Also, it’s easy to think that everyone else has it all figured out when you first arrive at university, but I think that we’re all on different paths. Some people may excel academically, while others have natural leadership or social skills. What matters is understanding your own strengths and working on your limitations. Take pride in the progress you make, no matter how small it may seem at times.

 Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about the future, but the memories you create—whether it’s late-night conversations with friends or spontaneous adventures—will stay with you long after you graduate. University may pass by faster than you expect, but the experiences you have and the people you meet will leave a lasting impact.