Malith excels at University of North Dakota

Friday, 22 June 2012 02:38 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In the fall of 2009 a young, promising student was placed at the University of North Dakota (UND) by its exclusive representative in Sri Lanka Scholarships for USA (Pvt) Ltd (www.scholarshipsforusa.com). This young man, Malith Silva, from Gateway International Rajagiriya who had once been the most popular international school boy cricketer has proven to be not only an exceptional student academically, but a dedicated and committed student leader as well.

All scholarships placements from left: Seevika Senanayake (SACK), Isuru Gamage (AIS), Miyuru Arangala (Gateway/R) Malith Silva (Gateway/R), Pramuka Perera (Gateway/R) and Pushkara Jayasekara (RI/N)

During his first year, Malith explored the opportunities available for students at UND. His studies in Sri Lanka prepared him well as he engaged in his studies, and he did very well. Even with a cold and challenging winter, Malith maintained a positive attitude and excelled. His academic awards, even as a Freshman, included the Presidents Honour Roll, the Dean’s List, and a nomination for the Outstanding Freshman Award; all significant achievements. Malith’s dedication, exemplary work ethic, and willingness to “jump in” have contributed to his academic success. When asked about his success, Malith stated that the “UND Community is very friendly and is always ready to give a helping hand.”

While studying Malith explored student organisations on campus including the student run International Organisation (IO), in which he not only held an officer’s position, but contributed significantly to the work and mission of this student organisation including the IO’s premier event, Feast of Nations. In his sophomore year, Malith, along with another international student studying aviation, approached the director of international programs inquiring about a past student organisation, the International Pilots Association. Seeing the need for supporting incoming international students in aviation, Malith and his Canadian friend, brought back to life this student organisation and serving as its president, he helped to transform it into an effective connection for international students in aviation. In his own words Malith states that “UND is a great place for international students who are interested in aviation to accomplish their dreams on a budget.”

Other accomplishments that Malith can claim in his short time at UND include:

nserving as the treasurer for Pilots for Kids, an organisation that fundraises in order to help needy children in the community

nreceiving the international student tuition waiver, a competitive scholarship with high level awards for the best and brightest international students

naccomplishing both private and instrument pilot certifications;

nserving as a peer mentor, along with other international students including many from Sri Lanka; peer mentors assist significantly in the orientation and support of new international students coming to UND.

Malith is truly a shining example of the exceptional quality of students Scholarships for USA has placed at the UND (and at many of its partnering universities in US). He came to North Dakota, engaged from the onset, and his accomplishments speak for themselves. Scholarships is proud to be associated with many others like Malith and looks forward to assist scores of more such deserving Lankan youth to find their potential in US.