From Classroom to Research – My Journey at Centria

Life has a way of taking us to unbelievable places, and my journey at Centria University of Applied Sciences has been just that – a journey full of learning, new experience and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.

Moving from Sri Lanka to Finland was a huge step of my life. I arrived with big excitement and curiosity. Everything felt new: the long winter, the peaceful surroundings, a new educational system, and a society that valued independence. Gradually Finland became more familiar, and Centria expanded beyond its original role as a university. It became a place where I discovered my passions and gained the confidence to push myself.

On June 5, 2026, I graduated with Bachelor of Engineering, Environmental Chemistry and Technology which signified the end of one chapter while also the dawn of a new one.

In January 2026, I joined as a Student Assistant at Centria’s Plast lab. It was my first experience in a research and development environment, and I soon recognized that each day would be different. There was not a ‘typical’ working day. Some mornings began with the preparation of various natural fibres such as inner bark and wood fibres, while other days were spent producing material samples, conducting various quality testing. It kept the task interesting and reminded me that research is all about curiosity, dedication and lifelong learning.

Gradually I became a part of the Bio-2-Print project which focuses on sustainable materials that were once deemed waste might be reused into something valuable. Knowing that I was contributing to studies that would benefit the environment made my tasks more meaningful. The project also inspired me on my bachelor’s thesis in which my research focused on using treated waste wood to produce polymer composites. It was interesting and bit challenging as I was exposed to a new challenge of my professional development. There was a lot to learn about lab work, testing, experiments and data analysis and I managed to do it successfully with right efforts and guidance. One of the most important lessons I’ve learnt from research is typically built on a series of little failures and constant progress.

I recall the individuals who believed in me, the conversations that inspired me, the challenges that helped me to grow and the opportunities that pushed me beyond my boundaries.

Working in Finland also taught me a new way of approaching research. At Centria, I’ve been working in an environment that appreciates teamwork, independent thought, and trust. Instead, merely doing a task, I was encouraged to ask questions, suggest solutions, and understand the purpose.

Outside of the laboratory, living in Finland has been a new experience of life with lovely snowy mornings, quiet woodlands, and the beauty of the changing seasons. At the same time, Sri Lanka remains with me through my culture, customs and memories of home. Living between two countries has taught me how to adjust while preserving my identity, which I consider one of the most significant lessons of this experience.

When I reflect on my time at Centria, it was more than just lectures, assignments, and laboratory work. I recall the individuals who believed in me, the conversations that inspired me, the challenges that helped me to grow and the opportunities that pushed me beyond my boundaries.

Even after finishing thesis and graduating, I continued as an RDI Assistant throughout the summer to further develop my lab skills. What began as an internship has evolved into an opportunity to further develop my talents while contributing to research that promotes sustainability and creativity.

Looking back, I understand that my journey is not only about exploring new paths, accepting change but also providing to myself that venturing outside of my comfort zone which may lead to opportunities I never expected.

As one journey concludes, another starts, and I am eager to discover where the next chapter will take me!