Raul “doesn’t waste time” on TikTok: A student from Maramureș wins four national olympiads

Raul Cosmin Perhaiță, an 11th-grade student at “Petru Rareș” Theoretical High School in Târgu Lăpuș, has turned his passion for computer science into impressive achievements: four national olympiads and a collection of medals earned through hard work, persistence, and exceptional determination.

“I was passionate about computers from an early age. I started preparing for the Networking Olympiad in the 9th grade, and cybersecurity began as a hobby. Hacking was trendy and seemed like a challenge,” Raul told TVR Cluj, the regional branch of Romania’s public television.

Living in the village of Groșii Țibleșului, Raul commutes two hours daily to school in Târgu Lăpuș, yet this hasn’t stopped him from finishing every school year with top grades—straight tens.

His parents speak about their son with emotion and gratitude. “He’s worked very hard since he was little. He struggled on his own and got to where he wanted to be. He dreamed of these olympiads and earned his place through his own effort,” says his mother, Gianina Perhaiță.

And the recognition goes beyond family. His classmates see him as a role model. “He inspires me to become a better version of myself. He’s the kind of classmate who helps you anytime, anyhow, without hesitation,” says Mihai, one of his classmates.

Teachers and school administrators confirm that Raul’s success is primarily due to his own efforts. “He is an extraordinary student, a self-learner. It’s a record for our school and for the entire county of Maramureș,” school representatives affirm.

Even the mayor of the town, Vlad Herman, acknowledges that the student’s achievements were an unexpected but welcome surprise. “If Raul managed this without an excellence center and with two hours of daily commuting, then anything is possible. It’s a lesson for all the children in our town.”

Asked about his daily habits, Raul gave a response that says a lot about his priorities:
“How much time do you spend on TikTok?”
“Not much. I actually uninstalled it last year. I felt like I was wasting time.”

Raul is now preparing for other competitions, qualifying sessions, and training camps.