St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine graduate Caroline Beauty Apreku, MD ’25, grew up with a deeply rooted curiosity for science and a desire to serve others. Originally from Ghana, West Africa, this dual passion became the driving force behind her dream of becoming a physician. From volunteering in local hospitals to participating in surgeries during her undergraduate studies in China, each hands-on experience affirmed her calling to medicine and her fulfillment in helping others. The profound impact of compassionate, evidence-based care inspired Dr. Apreku further. When she received a full scholarship to SGU, she embraced the opportunity to pursue her dream.
“SGU provided me with all the resources and tools I needed from the first term to the last shelf exam. I am very grateful to the University,” she said.
Dr. Apreku matched into her first-choice internal medicine residency program at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. Hear Dr. Apreku share more about her journey.
SGU: How did SGU help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor?
Dr. Apreku: While applying to medical schools, SGU offered me a full scholarship, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I could not reject.
In medical school, SGU’s rigorous curriculum pushed me out of my comfort zone to become more hardworking and more resilient.
SGU: What did it feel like when you matched into residency?
Dr. Apreku: My dream was finally becoming reality! It was so surreal. I was grateful for everyone who believed I could me achieve this goal, especially the little girl who was determined to leave Ghana to pursue her dreams.
This success has also motivated me to further apply myself to pursue greater endeavors.
SGU: How did SGU’s Office of Career Guidance (OCG) help you during the Match process?
Dr. Apreku: The OCG offered a lot of information and resources that were very valuable in the application process. I found the webinars, personal statement reviews, and CV formation very useful.
SGU: What drew you to your chosen field of specialty, and how do you envision making an impact in this area?
Dr. Apreku: In medical school, I enjoyed learning all the human body systems and the pathophysiology of diseases. During my clinical years, I was drawn to internal medicine as it allowed me to apply critical thinking, investigate and treat diseases, and help alleviate patient’s pain. I felt like a detective trying to solve a puzzle and it was very engaging and stimulating.
SGU: What is your advice to students to maintain a healthy mental well-being?
Dr. Apreku: The joy is in the journey and not the destination. While focusing on achieving your goals, stay in the moment and smell the roses. Sometimes take the scenic route. Take in the sunset, stay grounded. Enjoy the time you spend with family and friends. Do not neglect your hobbies or the little things that fill your cup of joy.
SGU: What were some of the highlights of your experience living in Grenada?
Dr. Apreku: My experience in Grenada was short but wonderful! I fell in love with the beauty of the island. From the breathtaking, glorious sunsets to the lush green trees, Grenada served as a sanctuary in my most vulnerable moments.
SGU: Where did you mainly do your clinical rotations? What was your experience during clinical rotations? What were the key takeaways?
Dr. Apreku: I did my clinical rotations primarily at Lincoln Hospital located in the Bronx, NY. It was very busy and intense, but I preferred it because I believe it prepared me for the rigors of residency and its challenges.
SGU: What advice would you offer to aspiring medical students from your home country considering a similar path?
Dr. Apreku: The price of ambition is grit! Perseverance is always the key. Do the work when you’re sad or happy. Show up to your life every day even if you feel like dying.
