HIS dreams of becoming a dental technologist are slowly unfolding after he graduated with a diploma in dental technology at the Fiji National University annual graduation held at the Vodafone Arena, Laucala Bay in Suva last Friday.
Ranish Raj, 24 of Sabeto in Nadi wowed the crowd after he was the only student who graduated in dental technology.
Ranish said the years of struggle were now finally over as he, after three solid years of studying, had finally reaped what he had sown.
The former Natabua High School student said he would not have reached this far without the guidance and support of his parents and friends.
Ranish said the past three years had definitely been challenging and at times nerve-racking. The new dental technology graduate explained this was so because in addition to the pressures to successfully complete his studies, he also had to hold down a part-time job to help his parents pay for his school fees.
“It was really hard for me especially when you’re studying and doing a part-time job as well,” Ranish said.
He said the main challenge was balancing the demands placed on him by his school work and his part-time job.
“I had a lot of challenges as my parents are not financially strong enough but I’m thankful to have friends who always supported me.
“It feels so good. Three years of hard work, waking up early in the morning and staying up late to study and my parents’ investment have finally paid off.”
Drawing on his experience, Ranish said, despite challenges encountered every day one could always achieve his or her dreams no matter how long it took. It meant not giving up when faced with obstacles.
“I never thought that I would reach this far. It’s been a long and challenging journey for me to get here,” Ranish said.
“I’m so blessed and fortunate to have friends and family members who are always there for me 24/7,” he said.
Ranish readily admitted there were times when he wanted to give up simply because “it was just too much”. That was when he would remember the famous words: Nothing is impossible.
“Sleepless nights and school days are now over and I can’t wait to begin my new journey and this is something I have been waiting for these past years.”
When asked about his plans, Ranish said he would apply for a post at the Ministry of Health or any private organisation and return to school once he’s acquired some experience.
Ranish said the graduation was the end of a phase in his journey and the beginning of another.
His mother Sanita Raj said words could not express how excited she was.
She said her youngest had been through a lot but had kept moving forward.
“I’m a proud mother and I’m really proud of my son’s achievement,” Ms Raj said.
She said parents and guardians should remind their children on the importance of working hard while they were in school.
