Student Life Unplugged
Welcome to our “Student Life Unplugged” podcast, where young people from diverse backgrounds share their experiences in navigating student life across the globe. Tune in as we explore the real conversations and candid stories of students — from their academic challenges to personal triumphs and everything in between.
This podcast offers a unique platform for students to voice their thoughts on a variety of topics such as adapting to new cultures, handling academic pressures, and planning future careers. Whether it’s students in the Europe discussing the nuances of studying abroad, or cousins in South-East Asia revealing the dynamics of male students’ experiences, each episode dives deep into aspects of student life that are seldom discussed openly.
Hosted by an experienced educator who has seen both sides of the academic spectrum, our podcast provides not just stories but also guidance and insights from someone who truly understands the student journey.
Student Life Unplugged
S3 E2 SRI LANKA IRELAND - Anjalee - Trust Your Wings, Sri Lankan junk food, teleport into a freezer, Irish people
"Trust Your Wings" is the advice given to this week’s guest, Anjalee. Born in Sri Lanka, she grew up with a mother who always encouraged her to choose her own path. After completing her degree in Information Technology, she followed that advice all the way to Ireland, where she is now pursuing a Master’s in Digital Media.
In this week’s podcast, we explore the jewel of the Indian Ocean and hear Anjalee’s story. She speaks passionately about student life in Sri Lanka and how inspiring her university years were, but also reflects on the country’s early education system, where continuous exams and tuition often consume childhood.
We talk about the food she misses—especially Sri Lankan “junk food”—and the deep importance of her family, who supported every step of her journey.
Now in Ireland, she shares how warmly people welcomed her, even as she arrived in the midst of one of the worst storms on record.
Anjalee’s passion for life is palpable, and her determination to become whatever she wants to be is truly inspiring.
Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.
For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/
If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/
This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy