Student Spotlight: Meneka Thiru, International Studies and Spanish

Meneka Thiru in front of a Roman aqueduct in Segovia, Spain--the city she lived in during her study abroad experience.

Meneka Thiru is a rising star who is affecting change on UAA's campus and beyond. Born and raised in Anchorage by her native Sri Lankan parents, 21-year-old Meneka has a passion for world travel and international affairs.

A 2008 graduate of Polaris K-12, Meneka considered going to college Outside, but opted to stay in Alaska and attend UAA for economic reasons. She said that in high school, her peers often saw UAA as a last choice. But now, as a very involved UAA student, she encourages high schoolers to give UAA a fair chance. "It can be a really good school," she said. "It just depends on how much you put into it."

Meneka is a junior double majoring in international studies and Spanish, and minoring in political science. During the fall 2010 semester, Meneka had the opportunity to travel abroad and study in Spain. She stayed with a host family, who helped her improve upon her Spanish-speaking skills on a daily basis.

Her interest in international affairs began in high school when she participated in the Model United Nations of Alaska, hosted by UAA. "It opened my eyes to international issues," she said. She now helps coordinate the program, which allows Alaska high school and university students to participate in simulation of the United Nations. "It gives students the opportunity to think outside of their bubble; to see things from a different point of view."

But Meneka's reach doesn't stop there. She also serves as the vice president of the UAA Heifer International Club, a student club that works to promote and educate the community about the values and goals of Heifer International, namely promoting peace by ending hunger. Last year, the club raised nearly $2,500 to aid in Haiti earthquake relief efforts. Meneka and her colleagues also held a fundraiser, "Afternoon Tea for China," to travel across the globe to visit Heifer International project sites in rural Chinese villages.

"Finding a group of people who are interested in the same things that you are is empowering," she said. Meneka explained that her involvement in the UAA campus community allows her to take what she's learned in her courses and apply it to something tangible. "I feel like we can make a difference at UAA and affect change as young people."

Meneka also serves on the UAA Student Activities Programming Team, which helps enrich students' lives by welcoming musicians, comedians, lecturers and other entertainment to UAA's campus.

This young woman has seen a lot of the world already, and is inspired by people in developing countries who are faced with unimaginable situations. "They don't have much, but they want to give what they have to help others. It brings me back to Earth; it makes me realize that I'm lucky to have what I have."

A traveler at heart, Meneka plans to explore more of the world after earning her degree from UAA.