An International Students Adventure

Arriving in New Zealand with a dream to study medicine, Irushi didn’t know much about the country or her school. “I didn’t want to set any expectations, so when I arrived, everything was a pleasant surprise,” she says.  

While the transition wasn’t without its challenges, Irushi quickly adapted to the quieter pace of Christchurch, a far cry from the busy streets of Colombo. “Sometimes I feel homesick, especially because Colombo is so busy with constant activity,” she shares. “But the people here are kind and helpful, just like back home.” 

Despite having completed high school in Sri Lanka, Irushi chose to attend Christchurch Girls High School and recomplete her final two years in a uniquely kiwi environment. "In Sri Lanka, I was from a co-ed school, and I admired how everyone worked as a team, uplifting each other at girls’ schools.” 

Irushi’s passion for medicine has been a lifelong aspiration. “Doctors have the power to help so many people, and I’ve always respected that,” she shares. Her specific dream is to become a paediatrician. “I admire how children are so honest and straightforward,” she says. 

As an international student, Irushi has felt embraced by both her teachers and the wider Christchurch community. “Even with the age gap between me and others, I’ve felt welcomed,” she reflects. During her early days in New Zealand, her teacher Ms. Callie Sandford, who also hosted her, became more than just a mentor – she became like family. “The other teachers were also incredibly supportive, helping me navigate timetables and settle in.”

Making friends in a new country isn’t always easy, but Irushi has found her place in Ōtautahi Christchurch. “At first, it felt strange. People here are so friendly – whenever I walk down the street, they greet me with a 'Good morning,’ which isn’t common in Sri Lanka,” she reflects. Although she initially felt out of place, over time, she found a support system both in school and in her volunteer work.

Volunteering has played a crucial role in helping Irushi settle into life in Christchurch. “When I came here, I was amazed by how much work gets done thanks to volunteers,” she says. Her dedication to giving back has led her to volunteer with organisations like the Kind Foundation and the Girl Guides, as well as working with elderly people at Nurse Maude.

“I enjoy volunteering for the Kind Foundation at the youth markets, where we give young entrepreneurs a free space for their stalls, and all the profits go to them. It’s great to help out without expecting anything in return,” she says. These experiences have not only deepened her connection to New Zealand’s culture but have also shaped her understanding of the value of community service.

Living with a homestay family was a key part of Irushi’s experience in New Zealand, helping her adjust to the new culture. “In the beginning, I didn’t want to go anywhere alone, but my homestay encouraged me to be independent,” she says. Her homestay played an important role in helping her feel supported during those early, challenging days.

Irushi’s host Callie says that positive relationship works both ways. “Having a student from another country gives me an opportunity to learn about different nationalities – you never stop learning.”

Christchurch’s peaceful environment is another reason Irushi feels connected to the city. “I love how the city is centred around Hagley Park in Christchurch. It’s nice because people can easily take a break, walk around, and find some peace,” she says. For her, the city’s tranquillity provides a welcome contrast to the more fast-paced lifestyles of other major cities.

Irushi has also discovered the importance of diversity in the workforce. “Christchurch is really inclusive. There’s an openness to diversity here. It’s nice to see people from all over the world, even at work, contributing their unique perspectives,” she says. She believes that this cultural diversity is essential for innovation. “Different ideas help a place grow. Combining strengths from different cultures creates a lot of potential for change and progress,” she says.

Her achievements at school reflect her commitment to contributing to the community. Irushi has served as Deputy Head Librarian, Peer Support Leader, Peer Tutor, and SADD Leader, and she was actively involved in the International Club Committee. “I’m really focused on being present and making the most of my life,” she says. “If you’re alive and in a safe environment, not fighting for survival, you have a chance to do something meaningful.”

Irushi’s dedication and leadership were recognised when she won the Supreme Award at the Waitaha Canterbury International Student of the Year Awards in 2024. “It felt amazing,” she says, reflecting on the moment. “It wasn’t about being the smartest – it was about being me. It was nice to be recognised for just being a good person.”

Now that she’s finished her high school studies, Irushi is planning to continue her studies in Christchurch. "Staying in Christchurch feels more stable because I can volunteer more hours and work part-time in familiar places,” she explains. “If I moved to Auckland or Otago, I’d need to find new volunteering opportunities.” Eventually she would like to take her new skills back to Sri Lanka. “I don’t want to be someone who moves abroad and never gives back.”

For Irushi, studying in New Zealand has been a transformative experience – one that she would love others to share. “It’s a great way for people to experience life in a different country and decide if it’s a place they want to live,” she says. “It’s also a huge opportunity for students to learn about different cultures and gain a broader understanding of giving back.”

Looking ahead, Irushi remains committed to both her studies and her goal of making a positive impact. “I’m not just here to study. I want to make a difference,” she concludes. “And I think Christchurch is a place that allows me to do that.”