I think what makes IIHS outstanding as a higher education provider is its commitment to every student’s excellence and the pathways, they forge for students to find their niche, be it educational activities, leadership skills, or conducting small-scale research studies.
It is both pride and privilege to be able to present one’s research on world-class platforms such as the ICN Nursing Congress or the World Stroke Congress. To be as young as we are and to be in the same arena as some of the greats in their field, representing both Sri Lanka and IIHS, there is no higher honor. I think that about sums up all my research experiences, as there is no greater experience/feeling than that. The opportunity to travel to different countries is also definitely a bonus!
My experience at IIHS gives me a competitive edge over my peers, as I have already learned and experienced how to be an ‘evidence-based nurse’ and ensure that I provide only the best care within my scope of practice. It has also honed my leadership skills and the ability to take charge of situations and remain calm under duress.
Research was a huge aspect of IIHS from day one. Initially, I was not as keen on conducting research. However, after presenting my first-ever research project at IIHS’s research conference, and receiving all the positive feedback, that was when my love and interest for research bloomed. My mentors and teachers were always approachable about any ideas, crazy or not! It was that concept, that ‘there is no idea that is too wild or impossible to achieve or investigate’ was the benchmark culture at IIHS that I really enjoyed and helped cultivate our drive towards research.
I do not believe a parallel can be drawn between the standard of education that IIHS provides and the general status of Sri Lanka’s education because IIHS provides a truly international educational experience. I say this because my primary education too was not based on the local syllabus, and I felt no different when I came to study at IIHS afterwards. IIHS sets a benchmark for what a genuine tertiary education should be like; both in the quality of the education it provides and the avenues that it opens afterward.
I am most proud of all the times that IIHS has led me to discover my true potential. In my last year, I was allowed to plan both the Student’s Day and my Graduation Ball. Yes, there were some setbacks and hiccups on both days, but what I remember most is, that everyone had a great time! I did not think that I would ever have had the potential to put together such large-scale events. But thanks to IIHS, I now know there is not any greater crisis that I could not handle! Thank you, Dr., Kithsiri, and thank you IIHS.
In my current nursing role, I am a team leader, overseeing 120+ residents and over 20 staff members, most of whom are nearly three times my age! Had it not been for the foundation that IIHS provided, in teaching me how to take on responsibility and be accountable for myself; I would not be as confident, or a competent nurse, and I would not be able to take charge of said 120+ residents and 20+ staff safely and effectively.
IIHS provided the much-needed network required to set me up when I initially arrived in Warrnambool. From there on, I was able to use those contacts to land my first nursing job at the same facility that I am currently employed at.