Back to School: 47 SGU Alumni Return to Grenada for CME Conference

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This March, nearly 50 alumni from St. George’s University School of Medicine returned to the True Blue campus and to the island where for many, it all began. Hosted by the SOM Alumni Association (SOMAA), SGU graduates came back to attend the 2024 Art of Medicine continuing medical education (CME) conference.

During the four-day event, held in association with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), participants had the opportunity to learn about new advancements across the medical landscape, while earning up to 16 CME credits. SGU grads also had a chance to reunite with classmates and faculty, while making connections with future inductees (students) into the 22,000-member alumni network.

“As a single event, this SOMAA CME conference consistently accomplishes several key success objectives,” said Dr. Brendon La Grenade, vice provost for Institutional Advancement and head of Alumni Affairs. “It provides an avenue for our alumni to reconnect with this island and this institution where it all began; it allows them to connect with current students who are inspired by their stories of success; and it gives them a chance to network with fellow alumni, strengthening this outstanding community of 22,000 strong and growing—all while sharing and enhancing their medical education.”

 

View CME Conference Instagram Reel

 

Alumni and Students Connect

The Alumni/Student Speed Networking event was a highlight of the CME conference this year, giving Term 4 and 5 SOM students the opportunity to connect with alumni, many of whom are top specialists in their fields.

Students had the chance to establish professional relationships with returning alumni and ask questions about their journeys to a career in medicine, opening avenues for the returning physicians to share their insights about the rigors of the profession.

“I love attending events like these because you get to talk to an actual SGU alum in person,” said Emilee Atkins, a Term 5 SOM student. “This is someone who has been in my shoes and can offer valuable insight on what’s going to come and some good advice on how to tackle it. This is beneficial not only now as I’m about to start my clinical years, but also later when I’m applying for residency.”

Wondering what this year’s CME conference was like? Check out the photos to see what you missed.

 

  • The seventh annual SOMAA CME grew in participation since last year, with 85 attendees, 47 of whom were SGU alumni, as well as 11 Grenadian physicians who practice locally.

  • Alumni received a warm welcome from Vice Provost Brendon La Grenade; SOM Dean Marios Loukas; Grenada’s Minister of Health, the Hon. Phillip Telesford; and Provost Glen Jacobs (from left to right).

  • Joseph Allen, MD ’90, was happy to reunite with Dean C.V. Rao and SOMAA President Bruce Bonanno, MD ’83.

  • Conference attendees were able to purchase a variety of SGU and SOM Alumni Association memorabilia.

  • A highlight of the four-day conference was the Alumni/Student Speed Networking event, which allowed the visiting physicians to share some words of advice with current medical students.

  • Proud alumnae, Alena Wade, MD ’06 and Katusha Cornwall-Griffith, MD ’11 were the event’s co-hosts.

  • Learning strategist, Jessica Milner, MD ’22, came back to Grenada to work in the Department of Educational Services here at SGU. She shared that the reason she returned was to give back to the community that gave her the chance to pursue her dreams.

  • Year 4 SOM student, Folarin Adeyemi was eager to have his questions answered, especially since finding out he recently matched into a general surgery residency.

  • For conference-goers, their time in Grenada wasn’t only about lectures and education. The SOMAA provided plenty of opportunities to experience a taste of culture and hospitality on the island many called home during their studies.

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– Ray-Donna Peters

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Match Day 2024: 8 SGU Students Secure Residency Positions in Canada Through CaRMS Match

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Alexandra Robertson

Eight St. George’s University students will be joining the healthcare system in Canada this summer with MDs at the end of their names.

Eight St. George’s University students will be joining the healthcare system in Canada this summer with MDs at the end of their names, having matched into competitive residency programs through the first iteration of the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) R-1 Main Residency Match.

Students matched into residency programs in four Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario. More SGU students are expected to earn residency positions in the second Canadian Match iteration on April 25.

“We are extremely proud of our students for matching into competitive programs across the country,” said Jibran Vahidy, SGU’s director of admissions and partnerships, Canada. “These students will join hundreds of other SGU alumni who have returned to Canada to pursue their medical careers. We acknowledge and celebrate their accomplishments, as well as the positive impact they will have on communities as well-rounded, caring, and competent physicians.”

Dr. Alexandra Robertson, MD ’23, felt a combination of relief, excitement and “pure joy” upon learning that she matched into an internal medicine residency at the University of Alberta.

Dr. Robertson, who hails from Edmonton, Alberta, is looking forward to returning home to practice medicine and to “continue to grow both as a doctor and as a person as I navigate whatever new challenges residency brings.”

“My journey in medicine at SGU has taken me from the United Kingdom, to Grenada, and across the United States and Canada. I have been enriched by being exposed to many different healthcare systems, electronic medical records, teaching environments, team structures, cultures, and patient populations. I have had the good fortune of being able to make deep and meaningful connections with mentors and friends along the way,” Dr. Roberston said. “The path is difficult but rewarding for those who are willing to go on an adventure!”

On March 15, more than 930 SGU students and graduates secured post-graduate residencies at health centers around the United States in the 2024 match cycle. Visit our 2024 residency listing page for a complete list of SGU physicians who will begin their residencies this summer.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky and Juliette Kimmins

 

 

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SGU Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine

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Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine

The Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at St. George’s University School of Medicine is celebrating 25 years of offering a Master of Public Health to students and contributing to building a competent public health workforce globally.

 

The Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine is celebrating 25 years of offering a Master of Public Health to students and contributing to building a competent public health workforce globally.

The program, which opened its doors in the spring of 1999, has since matriculated more than 1,000 students specializing in health policy administration, environmental and occupational health, preventive medicine, veterinary medicine, global health, epidemiology, and other professional fields.

“On behalf of the St. George’s University community, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the founding of our Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine at St. George’s University.  “The department, with its focus on preparing students for the wide range of careers in the field of public health and preventive medicine, exemplifies SGU’s commitment to our mission of positive global impact and a truly international education.”

Early Beginnings

SGU’s public health program was the brainchild of Dr. Allen Pensick, former provost of the University. His desire to establish a public health program stemmed from the importance of equipping medical students with a holistic approach to medicine—allowing SGU-trained physicians to not only provide clinical care to patients but also have the knowledge to offer patients preventive education and tools as well. In the fall of 1999, the first students began courses in public health at SGU.

Over the years, the department has evolved to include not only School of Medicine students, but also those within SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine and School of Arts and Sciences, who are interested in pursuing careers in public health. The program proudly hosts students and faculty from countries around the world, contributing to its diverse perspective on public health.

“For the past 25 years, SGU’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has been at the forefront of promoting public health through education and practice,” according to Dr. Kerry Mitchell, assistant dean of students and chair of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. “In Grenada, the region, and even beyond, our students and faculty have tirelessly worked to raise awareness and address the social and environmental determinants impacting the health of our communities.”

Added Dr. Mitchell: “In addition, our alumni, many of whom are practicing physicians globally, hold pivotal roles in shaping public health policies and decisions. This solidifies the crucial role that St. George’s University and the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine have played in shaping a healthier future for all.”

 

View Reel on Instagram

 

Recognized Globally

A significant achievement of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine is its success in gaining full accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) in 2010. It is one of the few non-US based MPH programs recognized and accredited by the organization. The program continues to be accredited through 2030.

“With this accreditation, we are able to guarantee our students an approved public health master’s education as other CEPH-accredited schools internationally,” Dr. Mitchell said.

As the program has adapted to the changing needs of public health, it welcomed Collaborating Centers from the World Health Organization (WHO) in Environmental and Occupational Health in 2012 and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2013. These collaborations allow both faculty and students to carry out research and service activities in those respective fields.

The department has additional plans to keep up with the changing needs of students as well as the public health workforce.

“Our multidisciplinary team has collaborated closely with numerous local communities and global institutions to tailor and strengthen our public health training,” Dr. Mitchell said. “This adaptability is particularly evident in our reliance on guidance from our community advisory members and the international collaborating centers housed within our department. As a result, we have been able to tailor our educational approach to produce the public health practitioners our communities need.”

For example, despite the global challenges faced in recent years, the department has successfully navigated through various instructional methods, emerging as a leader in public health hybrid education.

SGU graduates with dual MD/MPH and DVM/MPH degrees are making a difference around the world.

 

Darren Cuthbert, MD, MPH

Darren Cuthbert, MD/MPH ’16
Emergency medicine physician
New Jersey

“SGU’s MPH program opened the door of opportunity for me. One of the things I love about medicine today is the increased emphasis placed on evidence-based medicine—public health is the backbone to this practice. Not only does having an MPH make you stick out as a leader amongst your peers, but it broadens your horizon of the world and medicine—eventually creating a better doctor and scientist.”

 

Alicia Persaud, MD, MPH '20

Alicia Persaud, MD, MPH ’20
Family medicine physician
Ontario, Canada

“I believe completing the MD/MPH dual degree program gave me an edge with residency programs simply by having an additional degree. It was reflective of my commitment to medicine and healthcare in general. Completing my MPH in Grenada gave me a unique insight into the global public health sector, and also gave me crucial research experience. I was able to apply both degrees to my research projects during residency.”

 

MPH Program Milestones - (1999-2023)

 

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SGU Student Receives Competitive Veterinary Medicine Research Scholarship 

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Shelley Lownds, SVM student

Shelley Lownds, a School of Veterinary Medicine Term 3 student, was recently selected for the competitive Morris Animal Foundation Veterinary Student Scholar program.

A St. George’s University student’s passion for conservation and commitment to research has helped her secure a prestigious veterinary research scholarship. Shelley Lownds, a School of Veterinary Medicine Term 3 student, was recently selected for the competitive Morris Animal Foundation Veterinary Student Scholar program.   

“I was very honored when I found out I received this scholarship. The Morris Animal Foundation is a reputable organization that does so much good work, and it was exciting to hear that they thought my research was as important as I do,” said Ms. Lownds, who is in the DVM/MSc dual degree program.   

With the guidance of her mentor, Dr. Sophie Moittié, an assistant professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Pathobiology, and other professors and researchers, Ms. Lownds is studying the prevalence of Chytrid Fungus and Ranavirus in the four species of amphibians that inhabit Grenada. These two pathogens have significantly contributed to amphibian extinctions and population declines worldwide.  

“There is still much to learn about Chytrid and Ranavirus, so the more knowledge we can acquire about their effect on different populations, the better we will be able to protect amphibian species worldwide,” Ms. Lownds said. She believes that researching in Grenada is especially important because of the startling presence of these pathogens and because it is home to the critically endangered Grenada frog.    

Ms. Lownds, Dr. Moittié, and other members of the project’s research committee have been traveling around the island collecting skin and mouth swabs from all four amphibian species. With these samples, Ms. Lownds will test for the pathogens and other factors that impact pathogen presence.   

“We hope this research will assist in conservation efforts of the Grenada frog and contribute to the greater research of Chytrid and Ranavirus,” Ms. Lownds said. 

According to Dr. Moittié, Ms. Lownds is making great progress with the fieldwork, having already sampled half of the targeted number of samples for the project.   

Grenadian frog

Ms. Lownds believes that researching in Grenada is especially important because of the startling presence of these pathogens and because it is home to the critically endangered Grenada frog.

About the Veterinary Scholar Program 

Securing a place as a Veterinary Student Scholar is no easy feat. Dr. Moittié emphasized the competitiveness of the scholarship saying that “each project proposal undergoes an exhaustive review process including evaluations by the foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board, Research Oversight Committee, Board of Trustees, and Animal Welfare Advisory Board.”   

Ms. Lownds joined the most recent cohort of 24 scholars from all around the world and the roughly 600 students to have participated in the program since it began in 2015, according to Veterinary Practice News. Each recipient is awarded a stipend of up to $5,000 USD by the Morris Animal Foundation. In addition to the stipend provided by the foundation, SGU’s Office of Research matched Ms. Lownds’ scholarship via the Small Grants Research Initiative, which covers direct and indirect costs associated with the project.  

Ms. Lownds credited her mentors and SGU as being instrumental in helping her through the whole application and research process. When deciding on a research topic, she met with many professors who helped her narrow her focus and guide her in the right direction.  

She is especially grateful to Dr. Moittié who Ms. Lownds said, “always makes herself available, has been extremely helpful in guiding me through every step of the project, and has taught me so much.”   

Shelley Lownds (right), Dr. Sophie Moittie (left)

Ms. Lownds (right), Dr. Moittié (left), and other members of the project’s research committee have been traveling around the island collecting skin and mouth swabs from all four amphibian species. With these samples, Ms. Lownds will test for the pathogens and other factors that impact pathogen presence.

Looking ahead  

Guided by wanting to work with animals and in conservation, Ms. Lownds decided to pursue veterinary science at SGU. She said she was drawn to the DVM/MSc dual degree program’s greater emphasis on wildlife and conservation research. Ms. Lownds aims to be a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine with an interest in combatting illegal wildlife trade and, of course, staying involved in conservation-based research.  

“There are not many vet schools where you can begin doing wildlife and conservation work [on] day one, so this was a large draw for me. Wildlife medicine is also a very competitive field to enter, so having an MSc upon graduation will be very valuable in setting me up for my future career,” she said.   

Additionally, this grant has allowed Ms. Lownds to get an early start in conservation-based veterinary research and to work with species she has less experience with. Given her lifelong passion for wildlife conservation, this scholarship is another way Ms. Lownds is helping contribute to a meaningful cause.  

Dr. Moittié added that Ms. Lownds’ accomplishment shows that motivated SGU students seeking to conduct impactful research can successfully find support from internal and external funding bodies. She sees a place for Ms. Lownds’ research in presentations at international conferences and peer-reviewed publications. Furthermore, Dr. Moittié is hopeful that the recognition by the Morris Animal Foundation and the significance of this research project will bring visibility to SGU’s research community.   

Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, commended Ms. Lownds on her efforts. “The School of Veterinary Medicine along with the larger SGU community are immensely proud of Ms. Lownds’ amazing accomplishment. We are eager to see where this new opportunity takes her and her contributions to the field of veterinary medicine,” he said.  

  

  

  

— Juliette Kimmins   

  

  

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SGU Students Secure 910+ U.S. Residencies in 2024 Match

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Match Day collage

This article has been updated from its original publish date with SGU’s match results as of March 20, 2024.

St. George’s University School of Medicine announced today that more than 910 of its students and graduates have secured post-graduate residencies at health centers around the United States in the 2024 match cycle.

This marks the 10th consecutive year in which SGU has been the largest provider of new doctors to first-year U.S. post-graduate residencies.*

“Match Day is a pivotal moment in a new doctor’s career,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the St. George’s University School of Medicine. “The entire St. George’s University community looks forward to this day, and together we congratulate this remarkable class of medical students on their success.”

SGU students and graduates matched into residences in 22 specialties across 40 states and the District of Columbia. More students will find out where they will be doing residency training in the days and weeks to come.

“St. George’s University graduates have been meeting the medical needs of communities across the United States for decades. We look forward to seeing all the great things that this newest class of SGU graduates will accomplish.”

 

St. George’s University graduates will begin residency programs in several highly competitive specialties, ranging from urology and neurology to emergency medicine and pediatrics. Many will be returning to their home states or cities to begin their careers in medicine.

“Each one of these matched students represents the next step in a dream come true, and each one is a vital addition to the availability of care, and to the medical professional community,” said Dr. Loukas.

This new group of doctors will play a crucial role in addressing America’s growing physician shortage. Since 2015, St. George’s University has been the largest provider of new doctors to the U.S. healthcare system annually. More than two-thirds of SGU graduates enter primary care specialties, and a number of SGU alumni work in medically underserved areas.

“St. George’s University graduates have been meeting the medical needs of communities across the United States for decades,” Dr. Loukas said. “We look forward to seeing all the great things that this newest class of SGU graduates will accomplish.”

 

* As the medical school graduating the largest number of students per year, SGU places the largest number of graduates into residency programs each year, based on internal SGU graduate/expected graduate and residency placement data as of March 2024.

 

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Match Day 2024: SGU students describe what it’s like to Match

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Richard Hawran

This article has been updated from its original publish date with SGU’s match results as of March 20, 2024.

St. George’s University students rejoiced and breathed a sigh of relief on Friday as hundreds were matched into residency programs on Match Day 2024. The group faced tremendous uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, but now their hard work is being rewarded with their dreams of being doctors realized.

More than 910 SGU School of Medicine students and graduates secured first-year US residency positions.*  These numbers are expected to climb in the coming weeks.

Students matched into at least 22 specialties, including highly competitive positions in fields such as:

  • Anesthesiology,
  • Child neurology,
  • Diagnostic radiology,
  • Emergency medicine,
  • Family medicine,
  • Internal medicine,
  • Neurological surgery,
  • Neurology,
  • Obstetrics and gynecology,
  • Orthopedic surgery,
  • Pathology,
  • Pediatrics,
  • Physical medicine and rehabilitation,
  • Psychiatry,
  • Surgery,
  • Urology,
  • Vascular surgery, and more.

They will join residency programs, many at prestigious institutions, in 40 US states and the District of Columbia this summer.

Match Day is a milestone moment in students’ medical education as they learn where their hard work and determination will take them in their career. Students and graduates will now enjoy the fruits of their labor as the next chapter of their medical training begins—this time with ‘MD’ beside their name.

SGU News spoke with several recently matched students about what it felt like to discover that all their hard work led to a dream come true and what they are most looking forward to in residency. Here are just a few of their answers.

View Our Match Day Reel!

 

 

Iris Alao

Iris Alao

Matched: MedStar/Georgetown University

Specialty: Pediatrics

Hometown: Gross Pointe, MI

What was your Match Day reaction? Thank God! All the sacrifices and hard work finally paid off and my dream of becoming doctor has come to fruition.

What are you most looking forward to in residency? Doing more procedures, building patient relationships while tracking significant milestones, and having a little more independence when it comes to making medical decisions.

 

Ryan Caprio

Ryan Caprio 

Matched: Morristown Medical Center

Specialty: Orthopedic Surgery

Hometown: Medfield, MA

What was your Match Day reaction? I was absolutely speechless. I saw the email pop up on my phone with “Congratulations” being the first word I saw and couldn’t believe it was actually happening! I feverishly refreshed the NRMP site to confirm it was true and was so ecstatic to find out I matched into my dream specialty!

What are you most looking forward to in residency? I’m looking forward to being able to work with such a fantastic team and hope to be able to support patients in their time of need. As I will be at a newer residency program, I am looking forward to getting involved and helping the program grow as well. I’m also excited to be able to learn more about an incredible field and am hoping that the Boston Celtics finally win another NBA Championship by the time I start residency so I can rock a Celtics scrub cap in the OR!

 

Adriana Eslamian

Adriana Eslamian

Matched: St. Joseph’s Medical Center

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Hometown: Sacramento, CA

What was your Match Day reaction? Honestly, I immediately burst into tears. We have been working towards this moment from our first day of medical school, and to finally experience that moment was more incredible than I ever could have imagined. My husband and I were also so relieved that I matched close enough to home that we wouldn’t have to be apart for the next three years. It all worked out perfectly!

What are you most looking forward to in residency? I am mostly looking forward to finally starting my training as an internal medicine physician, having my own patients that I get to start building the patient/physician relationship with and seeing myself evolve into the best physician that I can be. I also can’t wait to meet my co-residents and embark on this journey with them.

 

Melanie Espino-Canche and Andrew Cross

Melanie Espino-Cache and Andrew Cross

Matched: Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Inspira Health Network (Vineland, NJ)

Specialty: Child Neurology and Emergency Medicine

Hometowns: El Sereno, CA and Queensbury, NY

What was your Match Day reaction? 
Melanie: Absolutely thrilled and relieved! You spend a lifetime anticipating this moment, striving, wishing, and hoping for it. Yet, there’s no guarantee, so we were filled with nervous anticipation before opening our emails. We met at SGU in Grenada, sharing a dream of matching together, and we took a chance on ourselves. We feel incredibly fortunate to have been given this opportunity!

Andrew: It was an overwhelming feeling of bliss to know that I would be able to continue my journey with my partner by my side. This meant more to me than the match itself. My relationship was my top priority, so when we matched, it added an extra layer of significance and joy.

What are you most looking forward to in residency?

Melanie: I eagerly anticipate delving deeply into all aspects of my specialty. While our (clinical) rotations provide a glimpse into pathologies and treatment regimens, I am eager to immerse myself further, gaining more exposure and autonomy as I progress in my learning journey and build confidence. Meeting my future colleagues is another source of excitement for me. Having formed a close-knit family at SGU, I look forward to fostering the same strong bonds within my residency program.

Andrew: I am eagerly anticipating the chance to utilize my hands in a deeply meaningful way, making a tangible difference in someone’s life. This opportunity to help others is unlike any I have experienced before, and I am excited to embrace the challenge with open arms. The prospect of being able to see the impact of my actions and the positive change they can bring fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment that drives me forward.

 

Richard Hawran

Richard Hawran

Matched: Weill Cornell Medicine at NewYork Presbyterian

Specialty: General Surgery (Preliminary)

Hometown: Clifton, NJ

What was your Match Day reaction? I felt like all of my hard work paid off and there was a tremendous sense of relief.

What are you most looking forward to in residency? Challenging myself to grow in every way possible.

 

Jasmine Aukakh

Jasmine Aulakh

Matched: Wayne State University School of Medicine

Specialty: Family Medicine

Hometown: Ontario, Canada

What was your Match Day reaction? I was extremely grateful for matching into my top choice and being close to my family and fiancé during this very important part in my career.

What are you most looking forward to in residency? I am looking forward to adapting to a new environment and taking on the challenges that this role will present. I am excited to join WSU residency family and work alongside and learn from my colleagues.

 

*Data as of March 2024

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky and Juliette Kimmins

 

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VIRMP 2024: 28 SGU Students Secure Competitive Veterinary Internship and Residency Positions

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SVM vet students

Twenty-eight students and graduates of St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine secured competitive internship and residency positions within the 2024 Veterinary Internship & Residency Matching Program (VIRMP).  

SGU-trained veterinarians achieved a match rate of 51.8 percent, in line with the match rate of 51.5 percent for all veterinary schools—including those in the US, according to data released by the VIRMP, a program sponsored by the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians (AAVC).

Beginning in June, the veterinarians will begin their specialized training in areas such as small animal internal medicine, emergency and critical care, surgery, dermatology, orthopedic medicine, and more. These positions are situated at prestigious institutions within the SVM’s network of clinical affiliates as well as specialty hospitals across the US and Canada.

“Congratulations to all who matched in this year’s VIRMP,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. “The hard work that students put in to make their dreams come true has been reflected in these hard-won internships and residencies. It is a true testament to the dedication they have to the veterinary profession, and to the desire to contribute to the betterment of animal healthcare. I hope that students will continue use these opportunities to learn and grow as professionals and to make SGU proud.”

Students shared their reactions to learning they matched and their advice for future veterinarians.

Whitney McCoy, DVM '23

Whitney McCoy, DVM ’23

Matched: Animal Dermatology Clinic, Dallas, TX
Current location: Small animal rotating intern at Iowa State University

What was your reaction to matching in the VIRMP? Are you happy with the outcome?
Dr. McCoy: I was thrilled to see I matched with my top choice!

How does the residency fit within your career plans?
Dr. McCoy: A dermatology residency in private practice will help me achieve my goal of becoming a board-certified veterinary dermatologist in my hometown of Jackson, MS.

What is your top piece of advice to veterinary students?
Dr. McCoy: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Know that veterinary medicine isn’t one size fits all, so find the niche that makes you happy and never give up on your dreams, even if they seem unattainable.

What was your SGU experience?
Dr. McCoy: Attending SGU was a truly transformative experience that gave me much more than just a veterinary education. I gained invaluable life lessons, formed lifelong friendships, and received a diverse and comprehensive education that has helped me excel in my career.

Lauren Smith, DVM '24 (expected)

Lauren Smith, DVM ’24 (expected)

Matched: Red Bank Veterinary Hospital (Red Bank, NJ)
Current location: Completing clinical year at the University of Georgia

What was your reaction to matching in the VIRMP? Are you happy with the outcome?
Ms. Smith: I am very excited! I have heard really great things from other veterinarians, interns, and residents who know colleagues that went through the same program. I will also be close to a few friends that I made while in Grenada which is so exciting.

What are your ultimate career aspirations?
Ms. Smith: Completing a one-year small animal rotating internship is the stepping stone to most residency programs. My ultimate goal is to complete a residency in radiology and diagnostic imaging so that I can become a board-certified veterinary radiologist (DACVR).

What key piece of advice can you offer to aspiring veterinarians?
Ms. Smith: Don’t give up! It took me three application cycles to get accepted into veterinary school and now I’m on my way to an internship program. You get out of your education what you put into it, so always be enthusiastic and willing to learn/try new things.

Why did you choose SGU?
Ms. Smith: I knew a few veterinarians who went to SGU, and I really admired their work ethic and thought process when working up cases. They really enjoyed their time in Grenada and recommended the program to me. I was also excited about living in a new place as I love to travel.

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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SGU School of Arts and Sciences Unveils New House Emblems, Further Unites Student Community

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SAS Sports Day 2023

Photo courtesy of SGU’s Student Government Association.

As the world grapples with the enduring effects of the pandemic, students on campuses around the world are figuring out how to re-establish a sense of community amongst their peers and faculty mentors.

At St. George’s University’s School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), this challenge has been met head on with innovation and enthusiasm, culminating in the creation of “Houses” and an annual Sports Day event in 2023 that bridged the gap between students and faculty.

The overwhelming success of the first SAS Sports Day left a lasting impression on the SAS community. With plans for this year’s event set for later in March, SAS students have taken this notion one step further by hosting a House emblem competition to further reignite the spirit of camaraderie during the event.

“Each ‘House’ represents an academic family that supports the wellness of students and fosters the academic, personal, and professional development of its membership,” said Dr. Lucy Clunes, SGU’s dean of students. “From the intricate complexities of computer coding to the timeless principles of evolutionary biology, the students did a wonderful job of visualizing the diversity of disciplines within SAS.”

Introducing the SAS House Emblems

Tasked with designing unique logos representing their respective departments, SAS students were challenged to create a design that encapsulates the meaning behind each House’s name. At the end of the competition, students from each of the six departments voted for their favorite designs.

And the winners are …

  • Python’s House (Blue) – Computers and Technology: Inspired by the dominant coding language in information technology, Python House embodies the innovation and adaptability of modern computing. (Student contributor: Faheem Jasat)
    SAS Python's House emblem
  • Darwin’s House (Green) – Biology, Ecology, and Conservation: Named in honor of Charles Darwin, this House celebrates the principles of evolution and the interconnectedness of all living organisms. (Student contributors: Roydon Gasglow and Sian Mark)
    SAS Darwin's House emblem
  • Diamond’s House (Orange) – Business and Management Studies: Paying homage to Michael Porter’s Diamond Theory of National Advantage, Diamond’s House symbolizes the multifaceted approach to success in the world of business. (Student contributor: Keanna Bourne)
    SAS Diamond's House emblem
  • Weber’s House (Yellow) – Humanities & Social Sciences: Named after Max Weber, a pioneer in modern social science, Weber’s House stands for the exploration of human behavior and societal structures. (Student contributor: Aaliyah Sam)
    SAS Weber's House emblem
  • Nightingale’s House (Maroon) – Nursing and Allied Health Sciences: Inspired by Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing, Nightingale’s House represents compassion, care, and dedication to healing. (Student contributor: Joliba Regis)
    SAS NIghtingale's House emblem
  • Vesalius’ House (Red) – Pre-Clinical Sciences: Named after Andrea Vesalius, the father of modern human anatomy, Vesalius House embodies the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the human body. (Student contributors: Jordaine Ramnarine and Hyungbin Park)

SAS Vesalius' House emblem

SAS Sports Day Leaves a Lasting Impression

Last spring, SAS representatives within the Student Government Association (SGA) organized the first SAS Sports Day. Modeled after the School of Medicine’s Olympics, the event invited students and faculty from all SAS departments to engage in friendly competition and share team-building experiences.

“SAS Sports was more than just a series of races and games; it was a platform for students to connect beyond their academic interests,” according to Jillaun Mitchell, SAS SGA president, and a Term 6 student. “From thrilling tug-of-war battles to the nostalgic charm of the lime and spoon race, students from diverse backgrounds came together to celebrate their collective identity as part of the SAS community.”

Added Dr. Clunes: “Beyond the thrill of competition, SAS Sports Day represents a commitment to fostering connections, nurturing talent, and cultivating a sense of belonging within the SAS family.”

The SGA hopes to further enhance its commitment to re-establishing the strong community spirit SAS is known for on the True Blue campus.

“We hope the bonds forged through SAS Sports will endure long after the games have ended, serving as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the SAS community,” Emilee Atkins, SGA executive president.

 

— Ashley Law, SAS student

Ms. Law is in her final semester within the School of Arts and Sciences Department of Business Management Studies.

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Grateful, Inspired, Motivated: Term 1 SOM Students Describe What It Means to Put on a White Coat

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Dominique Assing, BS ’23, was no stranger to the lecture halls at St. George’s University. As a child her mother, Brigitte Assing, MBA ’12, would bring Dominque to SGU’s True Blue campus while she completed her graduate studies. Later, Ms. Assing would go on to complete her undergraduate degree at SGU before beginning her medical education in the School of Medicine.

At the recent SOM White Coat Ceremony, Ms. Assing was coated by her aunt Lisa Radix, MD ’95, who inspired her to follow her dreams of becoming a physician at SGU.

“I felt a mixture of emotions at the White Coat Ceremony—excitement, nervousness, anxiety, and most of all gratitude,” said Ms. Assing. “I’m grateful to my family and to my aunt who came to coat me. After having such a positive undergraduate experience here at SGU, I couldn’t think of anywhere else I would want to study medicine. I really love being able to live in my home country, while also getting a truly international medical education.”

 

The occasion was monumental not only for Ms. Assing, but for her aunt as well.

“It was such a special feeling putting the white coat on the next generation,” said Dr. Radix. “Seeing Dominique grow from a toddler to a hard-working adult about to start her own medical career at SGU as I once did more than 30 years ago. In a way this was also my White Coat Ceremony, since I never had one because the tradition started the year after I graduated. Reciting the oath with my niece and her fellow students was doubly moving for me.”

On February 10, the Class of 2028 walked across the stage at Patrick F. Adams Hall during the milestone event that marks their entry into the field of medicine. After being coated—sometimes by family members or mentors who had become physicians before them, the students then recite the Oath of Professionalism—pledging to uphold the highest of ethical standards while treating their patients.

 

View SOM White Coat Ceremony Instagram reel

 

Hear from three other aspiring physicians on what it means to be able to wear a white coat.  

 

“I feel amazing after putting on my white coat. I’m excited and nervous at the same time but I also feel ready to take on this journey. It was such an honor being coated by my dad. He is the reason why I wanted to become a doctor. I was inspired by the work that he does and I’m happy to follow in his footsteps.”

– Abhigna Kandimalla 
Trinidad and Tobago

 

“I am super excited to have my white coat. It signifies that I’m clearly moving forward with my medical education. Previously, I worked in the pharmaceutical industry for about 30 years, but I always wanted to become a doctor. I applied to SGU because it had a great matriculation rate and great success rate of students getting into the residencies of their choice. So, I knew it was the best place for me to fulfill my dream of becoming a physician.”

– Tanette Brown
North Carolina

 

“I can’t even describe the emotion I felt while being coated by my father, SGU Associate Dean Dr. Dolland Noel. It was like he was passing the torch on to me. Initially I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life. But then my father really started to stand out to me. The way his work positively affected the people around him and all the gratitude surrounding him made me realize you can have a huge impact on your community and country as a physician. And just seeing the amazing doctor he became and knowing that he went to SGU definitely made me want to come here too.”

– Donan Noel
Grenada

 

View the full SOM White Coat Ceremony on YouTube

 

   – Ray-Donna Peters

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Georgian Court Renews Partnership with St. George’s University for Pre-Med, Pre-Vet Students

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Georgian Court University and St. George’s University (SGU), located in Grenada in the West Indies, are renewing and recommitting to their agreement which creates pathways for GCU students to pursue studies in medicine and veterinarian medicine.

“St. George’s University is thrilled to continue this partnership with Georgian Court University and to offer their most qualified students multiple pathways to a degree in medicine or veterinary medicine,” said Dr. Richard Liebowitz, vice chancellor of St. George’s University. “We look forward to empowering GCU students to pursue their dreams of becoming a doctor or veterinarian.”

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) sets up a 4+4 program with the two institutions. After completing four years of pre-medicine or pre-veterinarian studies at GCU, students who meet the requirements will be granted admission to SGU’s School of Medicine or School of Veterinary Medicine to continue their studies.

It also establishes a 3+4 program, in which students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in biology: biomedical sciences will complete three years at GCU and then be granted entry into the SGU School of Medicine if meeting requirements.

“Georgian Court University has always been committed to creating educational opportunities that help students excel academically and provide the guidance and support they need to achieve their career goals,” said Dr. Janice Warner, provost of Georgian Court University. “Through this partnership with SGU, we can provide a growing number of students interested in medical and veterinary school a clear integrated path into an accredited, reputable medical school with a good track record for residency placement in the US.”

Georgian Court campus

Georgian Court University and St. George’s University are renewing and recommitting to their agreement which creates pathways for GCU students to pursue studies in medicine and veterinarian medicine.

 

To be eligible for the SGU School of Medicine route, students must maintain a 3.4 grade point average and a 3.2 grade point average in the sciences. They also must score within five points of the average scores for entering students on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).

For the School of Veterinary Science, students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.3 while at GCU and complete a recommended 500 hours of animal experience alongside a veterinarian or animal care professional.

Both programs have options to complete part of the program at SGU, with remaining clinical rotations and education at various SGU affiliates, including those in the United States. SGU School of Medicine works with a network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom offering clinical and ambulatory training. The School of Veterinary Medicine offers clinical training at over 30 affiliated institutions in six countries.

Students who are accepted into the 3+4 or 4+4 programs for medical sciences will be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine scholarships. SGU granted more than $50 million in scholarships in the 2022-2023 academic year.

For more information about how to apply for the pathways program contact Tracy McCarthy, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Georgian Court University, call (732) 987-2759, or send an email to: tmccarthy@georgian.edu.

 

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