April 20, 2021 | Shawn Kornegay - Neag School of Education

Class of 2021 Senior Profile: Tamashi Hettiarachchi

As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2021 graduating seniors over the coming days.

Tamashi Hettiarachchi, smiling brown-haired female with green grass in the background.

"Take the class that you have a sliver of interest in just to take it," says graduating senior Tamashi Hettiarachchi ’21 (ED). (Photo courtesy of Tamashi Hettiarachchi)

Class of 2021 senior Tamashi Hettiarachchi.
“Take the class that you have a sliver of interest in just to take it,” says graduating senior Tamashi Hettiarachchi ’21 (ED). (Photo courtesy of Tamashi Hettiarachchi)

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2021 graduating seniors over the coming days.

Major:

Chemistry Education 

Extracurriculars:

Leadership in Diversity

Scholarships:

Dr. Victor Rizza Memorial Scholarship, Paula Riggi Singer Endowed Scholarship, Hamilton Sundstrand Challenger 7 Science Education Fund

Hometown:

Glastonbury, Connecticut

Why did you choose to study this major/minor?

I initially chose to pursue chemistry education because of my passion and interest in chemistry in high school. However, as I continued through my studies, I was drawn towards assessment analysis and the intersection of social justice and science education.

Who is your favorite professor and/or class? Why?

My favorite professor, hands down, is Todd Campbell. He has had unwavering support for me since I met him, and I have been so fortunate to work with him throughout my time at UConn. Campbell has provided me with numerous opportunities to grow as an individual and professional, and I am forever grateful.

“I would not be where I am today without the countless opportunities to connect with and learn from others at UConn.”

What did you accomplish during your college experience that you’re most proud of?

Student teaching during a pandemic.

What do you plan to do after you graduate? 

Live.

How has UConn prepared you for your future career?

I absolutely would not be where I am today without the countless opportunities to connect with and learn from others at UConn.

How has UConn shaped you as a person?

Without UConn, I would not have met one of my closest friends.

If you could summarize your experience at UConn in three words, what would they be?

Arduous, Ever-changing, New

What advice would you give to a student just starting at UConn?

Take the class that you have a sliver of interest in just to take it. Find professors who share similar passions and interests as you and connect with them.

Do you have anything else interesting you’d like to share?

Sunday breakfast sandwiches at South Dining Hall hit differently.