When Devansh Gupta, MD ’25, began his medical journey at the St. George’s University School of Medicine, he carried with him not only a passion for science but also a personal understanding of what it means to be on the receiving end of compassionate care.
Growing up in India, Dr. Gupta watched a close family member navigate life with a chronic illness. The experience sparked a deep interest in medicine and showed him how much of a difference a compassionate, well-trained physician can make.
“I’ve always been drawn to the human side of medicine. I love the challenge of solving diagnostic puzzles and the need to think critically while treating the whole person, not just the disease,” shared Dr. Gupta. “Internal medicine felt like the right fit because it allows me to build long-term relationships with patients while tackling complex diagnoses that challenge me intellectually.”
Today, Dr. Gupta is one step closer to fulfilling that calling. He’s now an internal medicine resident at NYC Health & Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health, where he continues to combine clinical excellence with compassion.
SGU News spoke with Dr. Gupta to learn more about his journey, experiences at St. George’s University, and his aspirations for the future.
SGU: How did SGU help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor?
Dr. Gupta: I always intended to become a doctor in the United States, where I could access a wide range of opportunities in patient care, medical education, and research. My goal was to train in a healthcare system that emphasizes evidence-based practice, continuity of care, and diverse clinical exposure.
SGU played a vital role in helping me achieve that dream. The rigorous academic curriculum built a strong foundation in Basic Sciences, and the small-group learning environment allowed for meaningful faculty interaction and peer collaboration. SGU’s global network also exposed me to diverse patient populations and healthcare systems. Most importantly, the clinical rotations in US hospitals helped me integrate into the US healthcare system, build relationships with mentors, and prepare for residency applications. SGU also provided guidance and resources for USMLE preparation, which was crucial to my success.
SGU: What did it feel like when you matched into residency?
Dr. Gupta: It was an overwhelming mix of relief, joy, and disbelief. After years of hard work, sleepless nights, and uncertainty, seeing the words “Congratulations, you have matched” felt surreal. I remember my hands shaking as I opened the email. It was the culmination of everything I had worked for. I felt proud, grateful, and deeply humbled. In that moment, all the sacrifices felt worth it, and I was just so excited to finally take the next step toward becoming the physician I’ve always aspired to be.
SGU: What was your experience during the match process?
Dr. Gupta: The match process was both exciting and nerve-wracking. There was a lot of uncertainty, especially with preparing applications, writing personal statements, and figuring out where I would be the best fit. It was a time of deep self-reflection highlighting my strengths, owning my journey, and hoping that programs would see the same potential in me that I saw in myself. The interview season was intense but also very rewarding, and it gave me a better understanding of the kind of physician I wanted to become.
SGU: What is your advice to students to maintain a healthy mental well-being?
Dr. Gupta: My biggest advice is not to go through it alone. Medical school is tough, and it’s okay to ask for help whether that’s from friends, family, mentors, or mental health professionals. Build a strong support system and be honest about how you feel.
Also, make time for things that bring you joy outside of medicine, whether it’s working out, journaling, playing a sport, or just watching a favorite show. These moments of balance are not a luxury; they’re necessary.
Lastly, be kind to yourself. There will be ups and downs, but your worth is not defined by one exam or one rotation. Take breaks, celebrate small wins, and remember why you started this journey in the first place.
SGU: How did SGU help prepare you academically?
Dr. Gupta: SGU provided a strong academic foundation through its rigorous curriculum and well-structured courses. The integration of clinical relevance into the Basic Sciences helped me understand how the material would apply in real-life patient care, which made studying more meaningful and effective.
SGU: What was the best part of your time living in Grenada during medical school?
Dr. Gupta: One of the biggest highlights of living in Grenada was the sense of community. Being on an island with other students who were all going through the same journey created strong friendships and a lot of mutual support. The natural beauty of Grenada was also a huge plus. Studying by the beach, watching sunsets after exams, and hiking to waterfalls gave me a sense of balance and peace amidst the intensity of med school.
Living in Grenada also gave me the chance to connect with local culture and volunteer in the community, which deepened my appreciation for global health and diverse patient experiences.
SGU: Where did you do your clinical rotations and what was your experience like?
Dr. Gupta: I completed all of my clinical rotations in New York. The experience was intense, diverse, and incredibly rewarding. Working in such a fast-paced, multicultural city exposed me to a wide array of cases, from complex medical conditions to common everyday health concerns. I had the opportunity to work in multiple hospitals, each with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities.
I gained significant hands-on experience in patient care, from taking histories to performing procedures, and presenting cases around the clock. The various hospitals and teams taught me how to adjust quickly to different systems and ways of working. I learned the importance of effective communication and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
SGU: What advice would you offer to aspiring medical students from India considering a similar path?
Dr. Gupta: My advice would be to stay focused, resilient, and open-minded. Pursuing medicine abroad can be challenging, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience.
First, do your research thoroughly understand the accreditation, clinical opportunities, and long-term prospects. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, as the diverse experiences you gain will shape you into a well-rounded physician. Second, build a strong support network. Surround yourself with people who motivate and inspire you, whether they’re fellow students, mentors, or friends. There will be tough times, and having a solid support system will keep you grounded.
Lastly, never stop learning and stay adaptable. The medical field is constantly evolving, and being able to adjust to new information and environments is crucial. Take every opportunity to expand your horizons both academically and personally.
