Dimitri didn't let opportunities go by and he doesn't think you should either. A well-known face across campus, Dimitri is now ready to reach new heights in the medical field.

Hometown

Wichita, Kansas

Degree received

Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering

Why did you choose Wichita State University?

I chose Wichita State because of the vast opportunities for me to learn and grow as a person outside of the classroom from internships to organizations to resources I could easily pursue!

Which organizations were you involved in?

Student Ambassador Society, Pre-Medical Student Association, Shocker Navigators, Tau Beta Pi, Sri Lankan Culture Association, Wu Crew, Threads Club, GoBabyGo, International Buddy Program, Barbell Club, Student Government Association, Engineers Without Borders, Japanese Culture Association and Christian Challenge.

How did being involved with the Student Ambassador Society/Shocker Navigators impact you?

Being a student ambassador opened my eyes to the prospect of being more proactive with involvement and truly engaging with those around me. As I met more ambassadors, I learned their stories and absorbed their unique perspectives. I pursued speaking opportunities that improved my communication skills and leadership roles that helped me understand how to bring together a group of diverse and unique students from all over campus. As a Shocker Navigator, I further honed my communication skills and learned how my story and many others are so deeply tied to the rich history of this campus.

Which Wichita State faculty or staff member impacted you the most during your time here?

Bobby Gandu for sure! He has been a role model these last four years whose advice and wisdom I have come to rely on many times. I admire his willingness to connect with students and foster friendships that last a lifetime. Without his guidance, I would not be where I am today so I will always be grateful for him.

How do you feel about graduating?

It's just another stepping stone. Not the end or the beginning, but another part of this incredible journey. I feel fulfilled with my time and proud of how I lived each and every day to the fullest. I gained a mindset and a skillset that will serve me for years to come but more than that, I made connections that will last a lifetime!

Which experience at Wichita State challenged you the most and what did you take away from that challenge?

Starting the Sri Lankan Culture Association was a scary endeavor because I was starting from zero with nothing to go off of and no guarantee it would work, but I have been so grateful for how much passion and celebration has come from it! I have met lively students I would have never met and put on events I could never have dreamed of! I realized the importance of just trying something without letting your fear keep you from pursuing it. I started with what I had and just took it one step at a time. Now I am so grateful for what I have gained and the connections I have fostered.

What are your post-grad plans?

I plan to pursue medicine at KU Medical School and assist patients here in Wichita in navigating the world of health. I want to motivate patients to take charge of their lives and make positive changes as they realize their worth. I hope to continue learning about the human body and all of the secrets held within.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

Take on the many opportunities here at Wichita State! Please do not let them pass you by. Even if you find a slight interest in a club, job, or possibility, jump on it and see what you discover! Maybe you will make a new friend, or you'll find a new passion! There is something to learn in everything out there so allow Wichita State to push you to be an open-minded person because that is how you truly grow.