Samadhee Kaluarachchi
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I have always had a passion for learning and discovering new things about the world and for tackling multidisciplinary challenges. During the recent years, I saw my home province of BC experience an alarming increase in hydroclimatic extremes such as heatwaves, wildfires, floods and droughts. At the same time, I became interested in how both traditional engineering solutions and nature-based solutions can help communities mitigate current and future changes in flood risk. Pursuing a graduate degree with a focus on studying extreme events allows me to aid in adaptation efforts while diving into topics I am passionate about. My field of hydrology also requires me to draw from my background in environmental sciences and tie various disciplines together, fulfilling my passion for multidisciplinary work while remaining grounded in hydrology.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I completed my undergraduate degree at UBC, which further persuaded me to continue graduate studies here. I took courses across several faculties during my previous degree, all of which showcased UBC’s high calibre-research and the diversity in its environmental sciences. This allowed me to dive into multiple disciplines which are highly relevant for my work in hydrology. Additionally, as I hope to better understand challenges the province is facing from hydroclimatic events and aid in adaptation efforts, studying at UBC allows me to dive into intricacies of these issues and conduct research relevant for BC.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The Faculty of Forestry conducts research which I believe is very impactful for the province, and my research interests aligned well with those of my advisor. Given that BC’s economy is highly dependent on forestry but we are also experiencing heightened risks of hydroclimatic extremes from various anthropogenic activities, my program allows me to understand how these activities alter risks of hydrological extremes and better support resilient adaptation and forest management. I also had the opportunity to work in two labs within the Faculty of Forestry as an undergraduate student. The support and sense of community I experienced during those placements far exceeded any of my expectations and further reinforced my decision to join the program.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
One of my favourite things about the Vancouver campus is that there is always something to do or explore, including visiting Pacific Spirit Park or the multiple beaches, gardens and museums around campus. There is something special about being surrounded by a rainforest or relaxing by the beach and forgetting that I’m on a university campus. Plus, the beautiful West Coast scenery surrounding Metro Vancouver makes for many great weekend trips!
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I look forward to connecting with both public and academic communities through my research and learning from others’ knowledge and experiences. I am excited to communicate my research as it progresses and engage in conversations about how we can tackle multidisciplinary issues.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
Understanding linkages among hydroclimatic extremes and their intersections with society requires both holistic and in-depth thinking. Holistic perspectives are needed to understand risks under multiple superimposing drivers and to design sustainable solutions that benefit communities and the environment. At the same time, in-depth knowledge is required to understand nuance and intricacies of the issue. My biggest challenge will be to acquire a deeper understanding of my primary field but with sufficient background on its intersections with other disciplines to contextualize my research and advocate for meaningful solutions.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
While my primary focus remains on hydrology, I like that my program challenges me to dive into related topics, allowing me to understand how hydrology intersects with other environmental disciplines, socioeconomic challenges and policymaking.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Completing an undergraduate thesis has been highly beneficial, especially synthesizing literature, designing research questions and methodology and communicating my research through both oral and written formats. Taking courses in several faculties additionally helped me understand how different disciplines intersect with and view complex topics. It challenged me and helped me better understand the multiple facets of questions I am interested in diving into. Similarly, doing research in a variety of environmental disciplines helped narrow down my interests and gain relevant skills.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I enjoy hiking and exploring the natural beauty in and around Vancouver, which also intersects quite well with my love for photography. Whether it’s the mountains, oceans, waterfalls or beautiful Interior, I love exploring BC’s natural beauty, and I always take my camera with me on my adventures!
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
One key piece of advice I have is to ensure you set up a sustainable routine: take breaks, set aside time for your hobbies, eat nourishing food and get plenty of sleep! Engaging in conversations and attending research talks both within and outside your field can also be highly enriching. Having conversations with others outside of my field has helped me make new linkages, gain additional perspectives and connect with others.
