Meet Our Student Researcher – Mridula Kaliyiluvilamakkathil Sugathan Nair
Mar 10, 2025 | Research Centre
Mridula Kaliyiluvilamakkathil Sugathan Nair’s journey is one of academic curiosity, dedication, and an ever-growing passion for research. With a strong foundation in economics from Jain University in Bengaluru, India, she developed an interest in social sciences and education, which eventually led her to Canada to further refine her research skills. She earned a Research Analyst Graduate Certificate from Georgian College in Barrie and is now pursuing an Early Childhood Education (Intensive) Diploma at Canadore College, set to graduate in April 2025.
Her academic and professional experiences have been filled with opportunities to explore research in meaningful ways. During her time at Georgian College, she worked on projects for the International Association for Intelligence Education (IAFIE) and Hastings County, applying her expertise in data management and policy analysis. This experience helped her secure a role as a Student Research Assistant at The Regional Municipality of York, where she compiled statistical data and developed databases that contributed to program development for the York Region community.
Drawn to the Canadore Research Centre for its hands-on approach, Mridula saw an opportunity to bridge academic knowledge with practical experience. “Even when the outcomes are unexpected, there’s always something valuable to learn when we dive deep into the details and stay open to new insights,” she shares. Her research journey has often led her to unexpected discoveries, reinforcing her belief in the value of the research process itself.
Her time at the Research Centre has provided her with invaluable insights into the world of applied research, which differs significantly from theoretical studies. “Applied research is about solving real-world problems with the tools and insights we have,” she emphasizes. “It’s not just about data; it’s about understanding issues, asking the right questions, and finding ways to make a difference.” For students interested in research, she offers one key piece of advice: “Be open to the process. Research is about learning, adapting, and sometimes being surprised by what you find.”
Through her work at the Research Centre, she has honed her skills in literature analysis, project planning, and survey development. “Every project presents a different learning curve, and even when research doesn’t unfold as expected, there’s always something valuable to take away,” she notes. With a clear vision for the future, Mridula aims to make a lasting impact in the social service sector, focusing on policy development and data-driven decision-making. “I want to use research to improve social programs, ensuring they truly meet the needs of the communities they serve,” she shares. Her experience at the Research Centre has strengthened her commitment to leveraging research for social change and innovation.