Honours Board Students on their goals, dreams, and accomplishments: Abdul Latheef Shiraza

I'm Abdul Latheef Shiraza of class 2025, from Sri Lanka. As I stand here on the brink of graduation, I can't help but feel a mix of emotions. A sense of accomplishment, excitement for the future and a hint of nostalgia for the past 6 years as a medical student. It's been quite a journey, with its ups and downs. I remember my first day of medical school like it was yesterday. The nerves, the excitement, the feeling of stepping into the unknown. I have always aspired to don a white coat abd stethoscope ever since I was a child. Little did I know the challenges and obstacles that awaited me. 

When I first arrived in Belarus, I was overwhelmed by the new environment, the language, and the cultural differences. I was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness, as it was my first experience of being away from home. As the years went by, I grew to love Belarus and all that it had to offer. My journey in Belarus has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. From the moment I arrived to where I stand today, I have experienced a wide range of emotions, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped me into the person I am today. Life in Belarus has been an eye-opening experience, both academically and personally. However, as I reflect on my experiences from day 1 till today, I can confidently say that every obstacle I faced has only made me stronger and more resilient. 

Studying in Belarus has not only taught me valuable medical knowledge but has also helped me grow as an individual. I have been fortunate enough to learn from some of the best teachers and mentors in the field of medicine. I have learnt so much about medicine, about life, and about myself. I am so thankful to the rector Zhuk Ihar Georgievich, the dean Stenko Alexander Aleksandrovich, vice dean Gushchyna Liudmila Nickolaevna, Lemiascheuskaya Zoya Petrovna and rest of the members of administration, all of my teachers, friends and family for their guidance and support throughout my academic journey.

There were times when I felt like giving up, when the workload seemed overwhelming, when homesickness crept in, when doubts about my abilities clouded my mind and the challenges too daunting. But through it all, I remained steadfast in my goal of becoming a doctor and pushed through the difficult times with determination and resolve. I kept pushing myself to study harder, to seek help when needed, and to never give up. And today, as I look back on how far I have come, I am grateful for the strength and resilience that I have built along the way. Alhamdulillah.

I have overcome obstacles that I never thought possible, and have emerged as one of the best students in my batch. I have come to realize that success is not measured by how smart or talented you are, but by how hard you are willing to work for it. I have proven to myself that with dedication, perseverance, and a strong work ethic, anything is possible. To anyone who is considering studying abroad or facing a difficult challenge, I want to offer my advice: "trust yourself and don't give up". Believe in your abilities and stay focused on your goals. Remember that the path to success is not easy, but with hard work and determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. 

As I approach the end of my time in Belarus, I can't help but feel a bittersweet mix of emotions. I know that I will miss this place, which has become my second home, and the people who have become like family to me. The late-night study sessions, the adventures, the shared meals and laughter – these memories will stay with me forever. And while I am excited to embark on the next chapter of my life as a practicing physician, I know that this phase of my journey will never come back. As I reflect on my experiences in Belarus, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have come my way, the challenges that have made me stronger, and the friendships that have enriched my life. 

I am proud of the person I have become, and I am ready to face whatever lies ahead with courage and determination. Belarus will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will carry the lessons I have learned here with me for the rest of my life. As I prepare to graduate and move on to the next chapter of my life, I will always look back on my time in Belarus with fondness.