Henadirage Kalindu Chamupati: "Belarus gave me education, invaluable experience and memories that I will cherish forever"

I’m Henadeerage Kalindu Chamupathi a 6^th year Sri Lankan student. I’m from group 7a. Former vice president of Sri Lankan Student Association (2022/2023). Media leader of SLSA (2019/2021). Hostel leader and Batch representative (2019/2022).

As I stand on the brink of graduation, I look back at the incredible journey of the past six years a journey that transformed me in ways I never imagined. Coming from Sri Lanka to Belarus, a country with a completely new language, culture, and environment, was both thrilling and daunting. For the first time, I was far from my parents, navigating life independently in a foreign land. 

The initial challenges were overwhelming learning the Russian alphabet, adapting to the cold weather, and understanding a new education system. But I was never alone. The university staff, especially the dean and vice deans, played an important role in making this journey smoother. Their guidance and support were invaluable. 

Over six years, I slowly but steadily adapted embracing Russian culture, improving my language skills, and forming lifelong bonds. My seniors, friends, groupmates, hostel staff, and, of course, my parents back in Sri Lanka were my pillars of strength. Their encouragement kept me going even during the toughest times. 

Being a batch representative (2019/2022) and a hostel leader (2019/2022) from the first year taught me responsibility and leadership. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges, but with the unity of the Sri Lankan student community and the university’s support, we overcame them together. 

Balancing studies and extracurricular activities was one of my biggest struggles. Clinical practice from the third year made me realize how crucial Russian language proficiency was in patient care. With persistence, I managed to bridge the gap. 

I am proud to have served as the Vice President of the Sri Lankan student community in 2022/2023, contributing to our collective growth and well-being. 

Now, as I prepare to leave, my heart is filled with gratitude. Belarus has given me education, experiences, and memories I will cherish forever. To this beautiful country, my university, teachers, friends, and everyone who supported me thank you. This chapter may be ending, but the classes and friendship will stay with me forever.