Graduates-2026. Sithija Jayakodi

My time at GrSMU has been nothing short of transformative – both academically and personally.

I worked as a batch representative for three years (2020–2023), served as hostel vice-leader (2022–2023), and then as hostel leader (2023). I was also the President of the Sri Lankan Students Association of GrSMU (2023–2025), led the International Scientific Wing (2024–2026), and have been a Faculty Council member (2023–2026).

Coming from Sri Lanka, the culture and traditions in Belarus felt very different at first. But that difference became my greatest teacher. I learned to adapt, and to build bridges across cultures. These experiences taught me resilience, empathy, and the value of unity.

I chose medicine because I have always loved the social field and interacting with people. Since childhood, I have wanted to help others. Medicine gave me that opportunity on a bigger scale. And while I have plans to possibly move into a separate field in the future, my core aim remains the same: to help people. More than that, I want to serve my country, Sri Lanka, and work for its betterment. I am ready to give back to the land that raised me and contribute meaningfully to the well-being of my people.

Leading the Sri Lankan Students Association, representing over 800 students, was an invaluable experience. Along with my Committee, we introduced new, advantageous changes to our community. We invited foreign lecturers to Belarus, and helped students prepare for future exams. Together, we organized events like the Serendib Gala, the International Faculty Quiz Competition, the Grad Party, and many others.

Beyond leadership, I also have a scientific publication. But more than any title or award, I value the experience of working with people from different backgrounds, setting differences aside, and growing as a team. I truly believe I could not have gained this depth of experience anywhere else.

I want to thank the University wholeheartedly for giving us excellent resources, dedicated professors, meaningful classes, and for encouraging extracurricular involvement. Beyond that, I want to thank every single person who has been part of my journey here. Every professor who took the time to explain, every friend who stood by me, every senior who guided me, every junior who trusted me, every staff member who helped me behind the scenes, and every person from a different culture who taught me something new. Every interaction I have had – whether challenging or joyful – has shaped who I am today. And I’d like sincerely and cordially express my gratitude to our Dean A.A. Stenko, Vice-Deans: L.N.Gushchyna who was a curator of Sri-Lankan national Association for several years, Z.P. Lemeshevskaya, Z.N. Marchenko – a Vice-Dean for extra-curricular activities. I have been lucky to collaborate with them closely within all 6 years. They have always supported us considerably, helped us sincerely in all our affairs, have always been ready to listen to and assist. Their guidance has made our student life better and their kindness facilitated our being here, far away from home.

GrSMU didn't just educate me; it shaped my worldview and my character. I believe this experience will greatly support my future – not just in medicine, but in any field I choose to serve people in. I leave not only with a degree, but with a deeper understanding of humanity, leadership, purpose, and gratitude.

Thank you, GrSMU, and thank you to everyone who made this journey unforgettable.

Sithija Jayakodi