Editor's Note;

Education, in our opinion at Zhejiang University, goes much beyond the classroom. Our goal is to develop well-rounded students who flourish in leadership and community service in addition to their academic success. Through a variety of programs, from extracurricular activities to academic mentoring, we hope to develop holistic medical practitioners with a global perspective. In this interview, we follow the story of Vineth Wickremasinghe, a student from Sri Lanka who has taken advantage of these opportunities and who, in his first year at the institution, has shown development in his academic performance, service, and intercultural involvement.

Could you talk about some of the most important events and instances that shaped your path to what it is today?

Of course! When I think back on the first year of university I see it as a new chapter of my life, as it was a mix of learning, obstacles, along with opportunities I didn't expect. I would say it's a journey full of excitement, new connections and growth. When I think about the events that shaped me, the first one that comes to mind is 'The White Coat Ceremony' as it was such an important part of my medical school journey that I can still remember it vividly. Not only was it the first time I wore the white coat, but it was also a sign of the duty and determination that come with being a doctor.

Getting the Honorary Title for Public Service from Zhejiang University was another important event. It was a recognition for my work on student-led projects and in the community activities, which is something I never thought would be recognised in such a big way.

I was also lucky enough to be a part of the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, which is one of the teaching hospitals. There, I met notable educators and healthcare professionals from all over the world. It was encouraging to hear what they had to say about medical education and study. It helped me see medicine as more than just books and tests.

Receiving the Zhejiang Provincial Government Scholarship was also one of the most important events in my life. It was not only a reward for my dedication towards academic excellence but it also gave me a lot of drive to do well in my future studies.

In spite of all these accomplishments, I believe the most important part of my journey has been the personal and academic growth I've gained from each task and encounter.

How was your academic experience at ZJU-ISM?

Unique way that Zhejiang University teaches medicine is something that really stands out. We're not just learning things by heart; we're also learning how to think critically and use what we know in real life.

The faculty members of ZJU ISM are exceptional, Which includes both Chinese and foreign professors. Their ways of teaching were so engaging that even hard ideas seemed natural and interesting. One notable instance was learning anatomy from Prof. Paul Rea who came to Yiwu from the University of Glasgow. It reminded me that medicine isn't just about knowing things; it's also about understanding, questioning, and always evolving.

The Dual Mentorship Program, in which we have both a clinical mentor and an academic mentor, has also changed the game for me. This framework has given me experience in both clinical medicine and academic pursuits, which has helped me build a strong medical background.

Of course, the university's new facilities, like its cutting-edge labs, digital tools, and even its gymnasium and sports facilities, made a big difference. It has been very helpful to learn in a place that benefits both intellectual and social well-being.

You've also been very active in social clubs and extracurricular activities. How have these things changed you in ways that aren't directly academically related?

Being involved in extracurricular activities and various clubs has really transformed me, maybe even more than what I expected it to be. As one of the founding members in the Student Union and the Study Club, I've worked with and led people from all sorts of different cultures.

One of the most rewarding things I've done was to organise tutorial sessions for juniors through the Study Club. I know how hard medical school can be, and helping other people deal with those problems made me realise how much I love knowledge —not just learning, but also helping others learn.

It wasn't always easy on my journey, though there were times when I felt unfamiliar even within a familiar environment. Even though it wasn't fun, those tough situations are what pushed me out of my comfort zone. Instead of staying inside the shell I decided to come out of it to experience the unknown. Even though it was quite challenging, it made me learn how to adapt, talk, and find my real abilities and to become a better version of me.

I now see things in a different way. Every tough situation has taught me something, whether it's how to be a better leader, how to solve problems, or just how to keep going.

What tips would you give to students who are thinking about going to Zhejiang University?

One piece of advice that I would give is to say yes to opportunities, even if they make you feel nervous or unprepared. University is not just there to study, it's a place for you to grow, push your limits, and find out who you are outside of school.

You'll be able to get a top-notch education, work with great teachers, and have a plethora of opportunities to learn, lead, and explore. But what makes your experience unique is how much you choose to move forward and how open you are to diverse opportunities and obstacles.

Zhejiang University International School of Medicine has been more than an educational institution for me. It has been a place for growth, resilience and connections. During this short period of university life make sure to embrace everything that it has to offer, you won't just leave with a degree; you'll leave as a stronger and a more capable version of yourself.

Written by: Vineth Vimukthi Wickremasinghe, 2nd year MBBS Student at Zhejiang University International School of Medicine

Edited by: Chen Weiying