For Alisha Arul Alphonse, MD ’25, growing up across India and Brunei played an important role in shaping her interest in medicine. Being exposed to different cultures and communities early on influenced how she understood people and their experiences.
“I was drawn to medicine because it combines science with meaningful human connection,” she says.
Her introduction to St. George’s University School of Medicine came during a school fair at Stonehill International School in Bangalore. “I was immediately drawn to SGU because of the island itself, the diverse and multicultural student community, and the fact that SGU offered a 5-Year MD Track, which I felt was the right fit for me.”
What stood out was the opportunity to study in a diverse, international environment while working toward her goal of training in the United States. At SGU, her journey took her from Grenada to clinical rotations across New York and New Jersey. These experiences strengthened her clinical skills and helped her identify her interest in psychiatry through patient interactions, research, and community work. “Understanding a patient’s story is just as important as diagnosing their illness,” she says.
Reflecting on her journey, she credits the SGU’s support system as a key factor in her growth. “St. George’s University played a foundational role in shaping every stage of my journey to becoming a doctor. It provided the academic structure, clinical exposure, and supportive mentorship needed to grow from a student into a confident and competent physician. SGU was central not only in helping me achieve my goal of becoming a doctor, but also in shaping the kind of physician I aspire to be.”
Now matched into psychiatry at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Alisha reflects on a journey shaped by global exposure, consistent support, and hands-on clinical experience.
SGU News spoke with Dr. Alphonse about her journey and the experiences that led her to pursue psychiatry in the United States.
SGU: Why did you choose St. George’s University?
Dr. Alphonse: I was drawn to SGU’s diverse international community and strong clinical training in the US. SGU offered a supportive environment that helped me grow both personally and professionally.
SGU: Where did you intend to become a doctor? How did SGU help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor?
Dr. Alphonse: I always envisioned practicing medicine in the United States, and SGU played a key role in helping me get there. My clinical rotations across hospitals in New York and New Jersey strengthened both my skills and confidence, while the support from faculty, mentors, and peers helped shape me into a more well-rounded physician.
SGU: How did SGU contribute to your academic success and prepare you for the USMLE exams?
Dr. Alphonse: SGU’s structured curriculum and strong academic support helped me build a solid foundation in both medical knowledge and clinical skills. Lectures, labs, and regular Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) practice, along with access to resources and faculty mentorship, prepared me well for the USMLE and clinical training.
SGU: What was your experience living and studying in Grenada? What stands out as a highlight?
Dr. Alphonse: Living in Grenada was one of the most memorable parts of medical school. I enjoyed being surrounded by nature, from beach time to weekend hikes with friends. The close-knit, supportive environment helped me maintain balance and shaped the kind of setting I hope to continue in during residency.
One of my favourite memories is spending time in Modica Hall, it became my go-to place to study and spend time with friends. It had a great view and was always full of activity, which made Grenada feel like home.
Beyond academics, I also explored the island through activities like a social cruise, trekking, and visiting beaches, which made the experience both enriching and memorable.
SGU: Where did you complete your clinical rotations, and what was that experience like?
Dr. Alphonse: I completed my clinical rotations at hospitals across New York and New Jersey, and it was one of the most transformative parts of my medical education. Training in different hospitals and healthcare settings taught me to adapt quickly, build new support systems, and balance the demands of patient care with studying. It also gave me valuable insight into diverse healthcare environments and what life as a resident is really like.
Outside the hospital, I enjoyed exploring new restaurants, attending Broadway shows, and pursuing hobbies like yoga and pottery, which helped me maintain balance throughout my training. Most importantly, my clinical rotations helped me discover my passion for psychiatry and solidified the kind of physician I aspire to become.
SGU: How did your Basic Sciences training prepare you for clinical rotations, and how do you see your clinical experience supporting your path to residency?
Dr. Alphonse: SGU’s Basic Sciences curriculum provided me with a strong foundation in medical knowledge while helping me develop effective study habits and lifelong learning skills. It taught me how to use resources like Anki flashcards, question banks, and Sketchy videos to reinforce what I learned from lectures and retain information more effectively. It also helped me develop strong time management skills, which were essential in avoiding burnout during demanding periods of study. These habits and strategies proved invaluable during my clinical rotations, where I had to balance learning, patient care, and exams. These skills have been invaluable and will continue to support me as I transition into residency.
SGU: What was your experience during the residency match process? How did SGU’s Office of Career Guidance support you?
Dr. Alphonse: My residency match process was structured and well-supported, especially through the guidance of SGU’s Office of Career Guidance (OCG). Their roadmap, along with support for electives, applications, and timelines, helped me stay organized and prepared throughout.
SGU: What did it feel like when you matched into residency?
Dr. Alphonse: When I found out I matched into my top-choice program, I was incredibly happy and deeply grateful. More than anything, it felt motivating and grounding, as it marked both an achievement and the beginning of a new chapter in my training.
SGU: What drew you to psychiatry and how do you hope to make an impact in this field?
Dr. Alphonse: I was drawn to psychiatry because it goes beyond treating symptoms, it’s about understanding each patient’s story and the experiences that shape their mental health. It’s a specialty where compassionate care can have a profound and lasting impact on people’s lives. I hope to make a difference by providing patient-centered care while contributing to research that advances our understanding and treatment of mental illness.
SGU: What advice would you give to aspiring medical students from your home country considering SGU?
Dr. Alphonse: One of the biggest influences on my decision to attend SGU was participating in an SGU Medical Workshop while I was in high school. It gave me a firsthand insight into medical school through virtual campus tours, mini lectures, and hands-on lab experiences. I encourage prospective students to take advantage of these opportunities. They provide a great understanding of life at SGU and can help you make an informed decision about your medical journey.
