Medical Legacy

On the day when ATAR results were unveiled, Janithya Dharmawardhane experienced a wake-up call more exhilarating than any alarm clock. 

The early morning revelation of her outstanding ATAR score of 99.25, shared with her delighted parents, marked a triumphant culmination of her dedicated efforts throughout the final year. 

The achievement places her on a promising path towards realising her aspiration of pursuing a career in medicine, following in the footsteps of her mother, father, and brother. 

Despite the nervous anticipation leading up to the results, Janithya managed to indulge in a bit of extra sleep before discovering the remarkable news. 

Recounting the moment, she shared, ‘I woke up a bit late, and after I checked my messages, my friends quickly reminded me to check my ATAR results. I was just at home, relaxing, and that’s when the results came in.’

Reflecting on her Grade 12 journey, Janithya underscores the significance of striking a balance between academic pursuits and cherishing precious moments with friends. 

‘Year 12 was pretty intense, trying to get that balance of study and hanging out with friends. The ATAR was very important, but all the other aspects of my final year were also really important – all the final moments like the swimming carnival, Holme Day,’ she reflects.

With aspirations of becoming a doctor, Janithya draws inspiration from her grandmother, a retired nurse whose compassionate service in Sri Lanka ignited her passion for the medical field. 

‘I’ve dreamt of being a doctor for a very long time. I was inspired by my grandmother, who is a retired nurse. So, growing up seeing her help people in Sri Lanka was where my passion started.’

Janithya’s parents share in her enthusiasm for the path ahead. ‘We always knew she was going to choose this type of career; she is so kind and compassionate. She’s seen firsthand the sacrifices that we have to make in the medical industry.’

The Dharmawardhane family is gearing up for a relocation to Adelaide, influenced by Janithya’s brother’s academic pursuits and the convenient access to airports, facilitating visits for her parents, especially if she decides to pursue her medical studies interstate. 

Expressing gratitude for her time at Fairholme, Janithya will miss the friendly and welcoming Fairholme community. 

Active in the Interact Committee, she devoted herself to organising events and fundraising for the wider community and volunteering at the library. 

‘Being able to help my community is really important to me, and that is the main aspect of medicine for me. I want to develop a relationship with my community. Like my grandmother, I want to provide compassion and be there for my community by providing vital medical needs.’

Janithya extends heartfelt thanks to her family, teachers, and friends who played pivotal roles in her success. 

‘I want to thank all of the teachers and my friends. I wouldn’t have been able to get through this year without them. I want to thank my parents for supporting me and my mum for dropping me everywhere and helping me get through the year. I'll miss Fairholme so much.’

Janithya will be awarded the Ordine Tertia at the Commencement Assembly.