Hi everyone! I'm Yehalah and I'm a '26 coming all the way from Colombo, Sri Lanka. My academic passions lie in Energy Engineering and Environmental Studies. I am a first-generation and low-income student, actively involved with the community. I love to paint and read during my free time. I'm excited that you're here, and I hope you enjoy this account of my life at Dartmouth!
Taking an art class has long been a dream of mine. Drawing 1 with Professor Enrico Riley exceeded my expectations greatly! He is an inspiring instructor who allowed us creative freedom, while guiding us in the right direction. We drew in different forms of charcoal, with colour introduced towards the end of the term. I loved my experience and I cannot wait to take another Studio Art class!
The sequel to Drawing 1 with Professor Enrico Riley! We worked in oil paint, which I was completely new to and admittedly afraid to use. I ended up falling in love with the medium and the flexibility it gave me to adjust and refine my paintings at any point in the process. I am sad to finish this class and I hope I get to take another Studio Art class in the future!
Moving to America was a drastic adjustment, especially considering the difference in perception of race and ethnicity. This class gave me a insight into past and current American oppression against Black and Indigenous communities. I loved how much I learnt through this class, which was also my First Year Seminar requirement.
My first language class at Dartmouth! Taking German was intimidating, especially because of the fast-paced and rigorous learning method that Dartmouth uses. It was so interesting to learn the different grammar and rules used in the German language. I cannot wait to use my Beginner German skills in Berlin next Spring!
The Sacred Architecture of Asia is one of the most incredible courses I have taken at Dartmouth! The course is primarily discussion-based, with Professor Seher explaining and initiating conversation about the course material. The material assigned was incredibly inspiring and taught me so much about South Asian religions and their beginnings. Everywhere I travel now, I think about the lessons I have learnt in this class and I am truly grateful to Professor Seher for facilitating an incredible learning experience!
Learning about German history in Berlin was a great way to explore the city and culture! The class had weekly excursions where we visited important sites in Berlin, which was so informative and helpful. Overall, I learnt so many new aspects of Germany and the people who played a significant role in German history.
SummerPerrysburg, Ohio
Interning at First Solar, a solar panel manufacturing company! I work on the Application Engineering team under Product Management, developing ways to better serve our clients and enhance our products. It has been an amazing experience so far, I have learnt so much and I am so grateful for this opportunity!
Taking care of your wellness during the term should always come first. However, in previous terms, I found myself prioritizing academics more than I prioritized my free time and wellness. Now, I understand although studying is important, taking care of yourself and well-being should come first.
This winter, I have been a frequent visitor to the Student Wellness Center (SWC). This is a space on campus equipped to help students feel safe and cared for! It is located on the first floor of the Berry Library, where you can often find me studying. The SWC is quiet, with places to lounge, study, or create!
The SWC offers check-ins where students can speak to a member of their team, either in person or on Zoom. I have not dropped by for a session, but I have heard that the team is wonderful! There is a great emphasis on mindfulness and meditation, with yoga classes being offered throughout the term. This center also facilitates the Sexual Violence Prevention Program (SVPP), which is a required program for all Dartmouth students.
In addition to all of the support and programming the center offers, they also massage chairs! You can book a massage chair just by writing your name down on the sheet outside the room. It is a great way to relax and take a break from a study session.
My friends and I have made it a habit to visit the place multiple times throughout the week. The SWC also has great snacks as well, with a place to make tea and coffee!
