Not all success stories begin with privilege. Some begin in the humblest of settings, with grit, persistence, and the courage to choose the road less travelled. One such story is that of Dr. Dhamodharan Ramasamy (fondly called Dr. Damo), who today stands as an inspiring example for every student daring to dream beyond their circumstances.
Click on the link to watch the full conversation https://youtu.be/pV-xU93elds
🌱 Humble Beginnings in Valparai
Born in Valparai, a small town near Coimbatore, Dr. Damo grew up in a family of tea garden labourers. His parents, though not educated, held a firm dream — to give their children the best education possible. Their determination sowed the seeds of ambition in young Dhamodharan.
Despite his hard work, he missed his MBBS seat by just 5 marks — a heartbreaking setback. Unwilling to pursue alternate medicine, he opted for Physiotherapy at the Government College in Trichy. Life seemed routine until one turning point changed everything.
🎓 The TRICHY PLUS Turning Point
While in Trichy, Dr. Damo joined Verbo-City Spoken English program at TRICHY PLUS. He calls this the turning point of his life.
Not only did he improve his communication skills, but he also found clarity, confidence, and direction. He became a student volunteer, participated in service projects, and even served as a trainer in the Summer Camp for kids. These experiences planted the values of leadership, responsibility, and vision.
🌍 Choosing the Road Less Travelled
After graduation, Dr. Damo faced uncertainty. Options like New Zealand and UK appeared, but nothing clicked. At 27, after six months of confusion, he took a bold decision — to pursue MBBS in Armenia.
It was a difficult choice, one that came with enormous societal pressure, skepticism from peers, and endless questions from relatives. But with his parents’ unwavering support, he took the leap.
Life in Armenia – Outside the Comfort Zone
Settling in Armenia was not easy. The challenges were many:
Younger classmates
A new language barrier
Isolation in a silent, developing nation
A culture of strict punctuality and responsibility
Dr. Damo recalls being frustrated initially. Unlike in India, where relationships are spontaneous and personal, Armenia felt distant. But over time, he realized this environment taught him self-reliance. He cooked, cleaned, attended classes, and managed his life independently.
He also admired the family bonding among Armenians, something he felt India often overlooks.
🎓 Double Degree & Global Exposure
While completing MBBS, Dr. Damo was selected for a Masters in Public Health (MPH) at the American University. He was among just two Indian students chosen for the program. Balancing two degrees demanded immense discipline, but it gave him international exposure and expanded his vision.
Returning to India – Serving His People
After his studies, Dr. Damo returned to India. He worked multiple jobs and internships to support his family. He got married and soon found himself shortlisted for prestigious opportunities — including the World Health Organization (WHO) and a Japanese organization working with the Tamil Nadu Government on cancer control awareness.
He chose the Japanese collaboration, finding meaning in combining global knowledge with local impact.
🏡 Today – A Life of Purpose
Now settled in Chennai with his wife and two children, Dr. Dhamodharan is living proof that:
Your beginnings do not define your ending.
With persistence and courage, you can carve your own path.
The comfort zone never creates greatness.
From Valparai’s tea estates to international degrees and a meaningful career in healthcare — his journey is an extraordinary lesson in resilience, vision, and courage.
📌 Final Takeaway
Dr. Damo’s story reminds us: When society tells you to “adjust,” sometimes the bravest choice is to take the road less travelled.
👉 If you dream of studying abroad and building your own unique journey, TRICHY PLUS Study Abroad Centre can guide you.
📞 Call 76673 69058 | 🌐 www.trichyplus.com
