A Journey of Excellence in Business Economics: An Experience-Sharing by Dilini Peiris
Ms. Dilini Peiris, a graduate of the Department of Business Economics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was awarded the Venerable Prof. (Dr.) Walpola Sri Rahula Maha Thera Memorial Gold Medal for being the Most Outstanding Student of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce at the 51st Convocation of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. She was also a joint recipient of the National Institute of Business Management (NIBM) Gold Medal, awarded to the best-performing students with the highest GPA in the Department of Business Economics.
In the following experience-sharing, Ms. Dilini Peiris reflects on her undergraduate journey, highlighting how academic commitment, research engagement, leadership involvement, and resilience shaped her development during her years at the university.
My undergraduate journey at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura has been a story of learning through challenges, discovering purpose through engagement, and growing through responsibility. Coming from a rural background, joining the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce was a valuable opportunity for me. I was committed to making the best use of the opportunities provided by the university and to contributing to the academic community that shaped my development.
Beginning My University Life
I was selected to the Department of Business Economics at a time when university education was undergoing significant disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For nearly one and a half years, learning took place primarily through online platforms. Limited interaction, restricted access to campus resources, and the absence of physical university life created uncertainty for many students, including myself.
During this period, I learned the importance of self-discipline and consistency. University life taught me that learning does not pause during difficult times; instead, it requires greater responsibility from the student. When physical academic activities resumed, I returned to campus with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear intention to actively engage in both academic and extracurricular life.
Academic Commitment and Research Growth
Throughout my undergraduate journey, I remained deeply committed to academic excellence. I approached my studies with curiosity and discipline, aiming not only to achieve strong results but also to understand how economic theories apply to real-world challenges. This approach enabled me to complete my Business Economics Special Degree with a GPA of 3.97.
One of the most impactful aspects of my university experience was my involvement in research. Engaging in academic research helped me develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and academic confidence. Presenting research at faculty and international conferences allowed me to learn from academics, researchers, and fellow students, while also representing my department and university on wider platforms.
A defining milestone in this journey was representing the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and Sri Lanka at the South Asian Economics Students’ Meet (SAESM) 2024, where I received the Best Research Paper Award. This experience strengthened my belief in the value of research that combines academic rigour with practical relevance.
Leadership and Active University Engagement
Beyond academics, I strongly believed in being an active member of the university community. I was involved in numerous faculty and university initiatives, serving in leadership and coordination roles such as Education and Skill Development Project Director, Project Coordinator, and Organising Committee Member, Team Lead for several academic, professional, and student development programs.
These experiences allowed me to work closely with students across different batches, academic staff, and external stakeholders. Through them, I learned how to lead responsibly, communicate effectively, and contribute meaningfully to collective goals. Mentoring junior students and supporting peer learning initiatives were especially rewarding aspects of my university life.
University leadership taught me that impact is created not through titles, but through consistent service, teamwork, and accountability.
Recognition and the Journey to the Gold Medals
Being awarded the Most Venerable Aggamaha Panditha Professor Walpola Sri Rahula Thero Memorial Gold Medal and the National Institute of Business Management (NIBM) Gold Medal is one of the most humbling moments of my academic journey.
These medals were awarded in recognition of being the most outstanding graduate of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce and the best student in the Department of Business Economics. To me, these honours represent far more than individual achievement. They reflect years of dedication, continuous learning, research engagement, leadership involvement, and the invaluable guidance provided by my lecturers and the department.
This recognition reaffirmed my belief that holistic excellence in academic performance, combined with research, leadership, communication and extracurricular activities, is what truly defines university success.
Balancing Academics and Professional Development
Alongside my undergraduate studies, I also pursued professional development, including reading for Chartered Accountancy (CA Sri Lanka). Balancing professional studies with a demanding academic program required strong time management and resilience. My university experience played a vital role in preparing me for this challenge by instilling discipline, adaptability, and confidence.
Special Appreciation
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Department of Business Economics and the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce for the unwavering academic and professional support provided throughout my undergraduate journey. I am deeply thankful to all the lecturers for their guidance, mentorship, and continuous encouragement, which played a vital role in shaping my academic discipline, research capabilities, and personal growth. The supportive learning environment created by the department and faculty motivated me to strive for excellence beyond the classroom. The achievements and recognition I have received are a reflection not only of my efforts but also of the commitment and dedication of the academic staff who guided me at every stage of this journey.
Reflections and Experience Sharing
Looking back, my university journey taught me lessons that go beyond textbooks. I learned how to face uncertainty with clarity, how to lead with responsibility, and how to come out of my comfort zone in pursuit of growth. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura provided not only academic knowledge but also an environment that encouraged critical thinking, leadership, and service. To my fellow undergraduates, my experience-sharing message is simple: embrace university life fully. Engage in research, participate in faculty activities, take leadership roles seriously, and never underestimate the value of consistency. Every effort you make during your undergraduate years contributes to the person you become after graduation.