Tony Chan, a 24-year-old medical student, attributes much of his success to the support and encouragement he has received from those around him. At the 2024 University of Fiji graduation ceremony held at the Saweni Campus in Lautoka, Tony proudly claimed five medals for his outstanding achievements.
He was recognized as the UniFiji Outstanding Student in Internal Medicine, Outstanding Student in Paediatrics, and Outstanding Student in Community Health and Family Service. In addition, he was one of just two recipients of the prestigious gold medal award for 2024, along with the Vice-Chancellor Award.
Reflecting on his journey, Tony, a graduate of Jai Narayan College in Suva, noted that the biggest challenge he faced was being separated from his family during the COVID pandemic. He expressed his gratitude to his family, peers, and lecturers, particularly Dr. Ifereimi Waqainabete, for their unwavering support. “Their words of encouragement and support were crucial to my achievements. My schoolmates stood by me throughout these six years,” he stated.
Tony was pleasantly surprised by the multiple awards he received, attributing this recognition to the determination that his educators recognized in him, which he credits largely to the influence of his parents, his two main mentors.
He went on to explain that these medals and certificates have opened up a myriad of opportunities for him in the medical field, setting the stage for a promising career ahead.
Tony’s story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and dedication in overcoming challenges. His journey not only inspires fellow students but also highlights the vital role that support systems play in achieving success. With his accomplishments, one can only hope he will continue to make significant contributions to the healthcare field, benefiting those in need.
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