Sri Lankan Medical Students’ Union

Navigating Academics and Extracurriculars

Every successful journey begins with a spark, and for many, that spark comes from the world 

of extracurricular activities. But, for one student at VSMU, balancing a rigorous academic schedule with a multitude of extracurricular engagements has not only been a challenge but a chance to grow, excel, and inspire. This is the story of Imash Perera, more popularly known as ‘Raiya’ a driven international student who embodies the perfect balance between academics and extracurricular pursuits.

A journey rooted in curiosity

For this student, their extracurricular journey began long before university life. From an early age, Imash was always eager to explore different activities, from sports to arts to music. Although they were new to many of these areas, they quickly found themselves excelling, which inspired a desire to keep pursuing a wide range of interests.

“I’ve always been curious and open to trying new things, and when I began excelling in it, I realized it was all about balance” he shared.

Managing the Load: The Art of Balancing

More often than not university life can be overwhelming, and balancing a heavy academic load with extracurricular commitments is no easy feat. However, this student has mastered the art of navigating through both. They have maintained a perfect attendance in both their classes and sports, showing that with determination and careful time management, success is achievable in both areas.

“Balancing everything is not always easy, but it’s definitely possible,” Imash Perera explained. “I make sure I’m committed to both my academics and extracurriculars because 

they complement each other. It’s about prioritizing and not losing sight of why you’re here—education should always come first.”

This thoughtful approach has allowed Imash Perera to thrive in both the classroom and beyond, proving that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of either academics or extracurricular involvement. By staying organized and focused, he has been able to excel in both areas without compromise. 

Success at Mr. VSMU: A Major Achievement

One of the standout achievements of this student’s journey at VSMU was their participation in the Mr. VSMU competition. Since their first year, they had been fascinated by the event, having watched seniors participate and contribute to their performances. By their fourth year, they felt ready to take on the challenge and auditioned for the competition.

The experience was nothing short of transformative. The student not only secured 1st Runner-Up in the competition but also won the prestigious People’s Award and Mr. Charisma titles. The People’s Award holds particular significance because it’s chosen by the entire university community through a voting process, including students from all nationalities. This student became the first foreigner and the first Sri Lankan to win the prestigious award.

Upon questioning about this experience, Imash Perera reflected, “At first, I was unsure of what to expect, especially as an international student. But winning the People’s Award and the other titles was such a humbling experience. It shows that hard work and dedication can help you stand out, even in a foreign country”.

The journey of taking part in Mr.VSMU was not just about winning titles for him. It was about showcasing the arena of skills he had developed over the years and a stage to represent his homeland giving hope to the students after him.

Imash also expressed that he is extremely grateful for his support system that always stood by this. Having a strong support network has been crucial in helping them stay motivated and focused. Whether it’s the encouragement of family from back home or the friendships formed at university, they’ve never felt alone in their journey. “I owe so much of my success to the people who’ve stood by me, specially my batchmates ‘EXORIANS’ ” they added.

A Multi-Talented All-Rounder

This student’s extracurricular activities are not limited to one interest. They’ve thrown themselves into multiple activities, showcasing their diverse talents and interests. Apart from excelling in basketball, their main sport, they also play football and cricket, be a member of mixfeeds, sing in a band called Lunu Dehi, and participate in a barrel percussion band named Thala.

This holistic approach to extracurricular activities not only enriches their university experience but also allows them to cultivate a well-rounded skill set that complements their academic achievements.

The Challenge of Being an International Student

Being away from home is one of the toughest aspects of studying abroad. “It’s tough not having my family here to witness my achievements,” they confessed. But, like many international students, they’ve found ways to create a sense of family within the university community. “We’re all far from home, so we rely on each other. My friends and batchmates have become my family here.”

For this student, the bonds formed with peers have become just as important as the support from their family back home. Their university friends have become a vital part of their journey, celebrating every achievement and making the experience feel like a shared one.

For juniors aspiring to follow in their footsteps, the student offers this valuable piece of advice: “Try everything.” University life offers an abundance of opportunities, and it’s essential to embrace them while staying grounded. Always remember your top priority but also keep on pursuing everything you love with passion he advices.

Conclusion: A Journey of Passion and Dedication

This student’s journey at VSMU is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and time management. Balancing academics with a wide range of extracurricular activities has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. By embracing every opportunity, prioritizing their studies, and finding support in those around them, they’ve shown that it’s possible to succeed in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Their story serves as an inspiration for others to follow their passions, stay focused on their goals, and, most importantly, strike a balance that enables them to shine in all areas of life.