Durvesh Jethwani, Class of 2004
Current Profession: Urologist and Renal Transplant Surgeon at Hospital Kuala Lumpur
University Attended: AIMST University, Malaysia
Dr. Durvesh Jethwani, a distinguished alumnus of Garden International School, Class of 2004, stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements that can be accomplished through dedication and a thirst for knowledge. From his early days at GIS, it was clear that Dr. Jethwani possessed a profound intellect and an insatiable curiosity, which propelled him to pursue a career in the medical field. Since leaving GIS, he has gone on to make significant contributions to the field of healthcare, emerging as a respected and accomplished physician. With his unwavering commitment to excellence and a compassionate approach to patient care, Dr. Durvesh Jethwani has become an inspiration to both his peers and the younger generation of aspiring medical professionals.
Presently, Dr. Durvesh Jethwani serves as a dedicated and accomplished medical professional at Hospital Kuala Lumpur. With his extensive expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch healthcare, he plays a pivotal role in providing exceptional medical services to the community. As a physician, Dr. Jethwani’s passion for patient well-being is evident in his compassionate approach, ensuring that each individual receives the highest standard of care. His exceptional clinical skills, coupled with his ability to connect with patients on a personal level, have earned him the respect and gratitude of both his colleagues and the people he serves. Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others, Dr. Durvesh Jethwani continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in the medical profession at Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
Dr Durvesh, please tell us more about why you decided to pursue a medical degree?
I’ve always had a passion for problem-solving. I enjoy the challenge of analysing situations, identifying the underlying issues, and finding practical solutions. However, I never liked the idea of a desk job. I wanted a career that showed me tangible and meaningful outcomes for my work.
The field of medicine stood out to me as the perfect fit as it offered a robust combination of higher stimulation and hands-on application, allowing me to actively engage with people and make a significant and direct impact on their lives. The prospect of waking up in the morning with a sense of purpose, knowing that I would be dedicating my day to improving the health and well-being of others, was incredibly appealing to me. It has been a rewarding journey so far, and I look forward to the future challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the field of urology and renal transplantation.
What was your overall GIS experience like?
Being a student at GIS from kindergarten to year 11 (1993-2004) was a transformative experience that shaped my life. The school provided a strong educational foundation and a diverse community of teachers and peers who influenced my personal growth. An environment that I couldn’t find anywhere outside of school. I formed lifelong friendships that continue to be an important part of my life. Overall, my time at GIS felt more than just going to school; it was a nurturing journey that fostered learning, character development, and my favourite part, lasting connections.
Do you have any general fond GIS memories you’d like to share?
Reflecting on my time at GIS brings forth a flood of fond memories that still bring a smile to my face. From mustering the courage to approach my first crush (now a dear friend), to engaging in playful practical jokes with friends, the school days were filled with laughter and unforgettable moments. One memory etched in my mind is the spirited war-cry of ‘GET OFF THE PITCH!’ echoing across the field, courtesy of our enthusiastic PE teacher, Mr. O’Hara.
I recall transitioning from being on the head-of-year’s delinquent list for neglecting my Art homework to becoming a prefect the following year and enforcing the rules (“tuck in your shirts!”). However, one of my fondest memories stems from my Add Maths class in year 11. Our dedicated teacher, Mrs. Yap, took it to heart when our mock exam results were poor (I didn’t know there was a grade U), and she organised additional sessions on Saturdays to help us improve. Thanks to her unwavering support, every student in our class passed the finals.
What person, course, or experience most influenced you while at GIS?
It took me a while to answer this. I settled on the fact that it was not any one experience, but the whole journey… more specifically the invaluable experience of navigating and building relationships with diverse groups of people. Malaysia being such a vibrant multicultural country, couldn’t come close to the variety of cultures and backgrounds of the students and teachers in GIS.
What is the most important thing you learned while you were at GIS?
During my journey at GIS, I experienced how dynamic friendships could be and how they evolve as we grow. From being inseparable from certain friends during primary school (we used to practically live with each other on weekends), our paths diverged in secondary school as we pursued different interests and formed new connections.
By the time I reached year 11, I had found close friends within different cliques, as the school environment fostered a culture of inclusivity. Surprisingly, some of the friends who are closest to me now were not a major part of my social circle back then. This experience taught me that regardless of the circumstances, I can find my place and cultivate meaningful friendships wherever I go.
I have the confidence now, to adapt and form connections with people from diverse backgrounds. I now accept that change is inevitable, but with an open mind and willingness to embrace new experiences, I can establish genuine connections wherever I go and leave a meaningful impact on the people I work with and encounter.
Describe GIS in three words
Diverse, Inspirational, Cornerstone
How did your education at GIS prepare you for what you are doing today?
I’m not sure that much of what I studied in primary or secondary school prepared me for what I do now… it’s hard to see a direct link between learning about parts of a flower (o-level biology) and operating on a patient with kidney failure. But beyond scholastic knowledge, GIS instilled in me invaluable skills such as problem-solving and logical reasoning that are essential in my role today. Rather than solely focusing on memorization, GIS encouraged critical thinking and the ability to analyse and solve complex problems. These skills have been instrumental in my work as a surgeon, where I constantly face intricate medical scenarios and need to provide thoughtful solutions.
What advice would you give current students or recent graduates interested in pursuing a career in your professional field?
If you’re considering a career in medicine, my advice is to pursue it wholeheartedly. Nothing less. Remember that being a good doctor requires dedication and passion. The practice of medicine is as much an art and as it is a science. Embrace the challenges and setbacks along the way, as they are opportunities for growth. Focus on developing resilience and a genuine desire to help others. Your education thus far will provide for a strong foundation, but it’s important to find your own path and build on that with your values and aspirations. Pursue your goals for your own fulfilment and happiness, not for external validation. Stay curious, and never forget the profound impact you can have on people’s lives. Follow your heart, give it your all, and embark on a rewarding and meaningful career in medicine.
Thank you, Dr Durvesh, for taking the time and sharing your experiences with us.
If you would like to feature as part of our ‘Alumni Spotlights’, just get in touch with us at alumni@gardenschool.edu.my. Because every story matters! Alternately, connect with us on social media via Facebook and LinkedIn or read more inspiring articles via our Global Alumni Website. If you haven’t become a registered member yet, please do so via this link.