Beyond the classroom: Excellence in Student Life award recipients
At RIT, success is defined by more than just high marks on an exam; it is found in the intersection of academic rigor, responsible leadership, and a genuine commitment to the community. This year, the RIT’s Excellence in Student Life Award once again shines a spotlight on those who go above and beyond, transforming the campus experience for themselves and those around them.
This year’s award received an impressive number of 140 applications from across the university. While 29 applications came from RIT’s international locations, Croatia showed noticeable engagement, making up the majority of that group with 14 applicants.
Recognizing outstanding achievement
We are proud to announce that four RIT Croatia students have been honored with this year’s award for their exceptional contributions:
- Tomo Naglić, HTM
- Vernon Agušaj, GBM
- Orest Kisi, WMC
- Antonia Kurtović, GBM
This achievement is a testament not only to the students' hard work but also to the faculty mentors whose guidance has been instrumental. Their dedication ensures that RIT Croatia remains a place where students are encouraged to take initiative and lead with integrity.
Perspectives on growth and leadership
For Orest Kisi, a senior in the Web and Mobile Computing program in Dubrovnik, the award felt like a "culmination of four years" of work. Reflecting on his role as Head of Advocacy and Communication for Student Government, Orest highlighted the importance of clear dialogue. "I worked closely with both students and administration to make sure student concerns were heard and shared clearly," he noted.
Beyond policy, his impact was felt in the community through events such as RIT Croatia’s annual charity auctions that raise substantial amounts of funds each year. For Orest, these leadership roles were a laboratory for his professional life. "My program of study helped me become more confident in my abilities," he explained, noting how he applied classroom teamwork skills to real-world campus challenges. "Being involved was always an important part of my experience here, so it feels really nice to have that recognized."
In Zagreb, Vernon Agušaj, studying Global Business Management, found that his journey was defined by the support he gave to others. Serving as a peer tutor for four semesters, Vernon helped his classmates navigate the complexities of Microeconomics and Financial Management.
"What motivated me most was the opportunity for the award to serve as a lasting reminder of my time at RIT," Vernon explained. He attributes his leadership style to the unique culture of the campus. "RIT Croatia stands out because of its incredibly supportive community. It showed me that leading is not about standing above others but about supporting those around you." For Vernon, this recognition is a family milestone as much as a personal one: "I would like to dedicate this recognition to my parents and my brother... this achievement is just as much theirs as it is mine."
Words of wisdom for the future
As these seniors prepare to graduate, they leave behind valuable advice for those just starting their journey. Orest encourages students to "get involved as early as possible," noting that participation is what makes the RIT experience special. Vernon echoes this sentiment, adding a reminder to stay resilient: "Stay curious and never doubt yourself. At some point, you will face challenges, but it’s important not to let those moments define you. Most importantly, be kind."
The RIT’s Excellence in Student Life Award serves as a reminder that the skills honed outside the classroom—communication, empathy, and project management—are just as vital as those learned within it.
Congratulations to our recipients for leaving a lasting mark on RIT Croatia!
