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

Richard Hawran

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.

On March 15, more than 880 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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Georgian Court Renews Partnership with St. George’s University for Pre-Med, Pre-Vet Students

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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St. George’s University Mourns the Loss of Campus Visionary Architect, Andy Belford

Charlie Modica and Andy Belford

St. George’s University and its community mourns the loss of Andrew “Andy” J. Belford (right), the school’s very first director of admissions, who had a profound effect on the creation and development of SGU’s True Blue campus. Pictured here in 2018 with SGU Chancellor Charles Modica.

St. George’s University (SGU) and its community mourns the loss of Andrew “Andy” J. Belford, the school’s very first director of admissions, who had a profound effect on the creation and development of SGU’s True Blue campus.

Mr. Belford died peacefully on February 6, surrounded by family and friends. He was 75 years old.

“Andy’s indefatigable energy, spirit, intelligence, and integrity were greatly appreciated as he explained this new concept of a medical school to many prospective students in the 1970s and early 1980s,” according to Dr. Charles R. Modica, chancellor and co-founder of SGU. “His energy and dedication went far beyond the area of admissions—and his wisdom, quick intelligence, and dedication were indispensable to myself and the other founders in the launching and development of a new medical school in the country of Grenada.”

As the University grew its faculty, student body, and presence in the world of medical education, Mr. Belford set off in an entirely new direction, enrolling in Columbia School of Architecture, and designing and building homes and complexes, mainly in South Florida.

When the University began a dramatic expansion in the early 1990s, Mr. Belford returned to SGU’s True Blue campus where he designed and led a team of architects and builders in the creation of the magnificent campus that has come to embody the mission and spirit of SGU. Under his guidance and vision, the University erected more than 65 beautiful, functional buildings along the True Blue peninsula.

Today students, faculty, and administrators live and learn on his visionary, neo-Georgian campus built over the course of three decades.

Recognizing his contributions to SGU

SGU administrators at School of Medicine graduation

University architect Andrew Belford (4th from left) receives the Order of the Mace from members of the selection committee during the 2010 School of Medicine Commencement ceremony. June 13, 2010 – Lincoln Center – New York, NY.

In 2010, he was bestowed the prestigious Order of the Mace Award—the University’s highest honor—for his impact on SGU’s evolution and success. He joined Chancellor Modica, Sir Kenneth Stuart, and Provost Emeritus Allen Pensick as recipients.

In July 2018, SGU named one of its newer buildings after him. Today, the Andrew J. Belford Centre is a vibrant hub of campus life. A bronze plaque was placed in front of the building—outlining the foundation Mr. Belford built and his immeasurable impact—unveiled in front of SGU administrators, faculty, and staff, as well as family and friends, in attendance.

Remembering Andy Belford and his influence on SGU

SGU administrators at dedication ceremony for Andrew J. Belford Centre

In 2018, SGU dedicated a bronze plaque at Andrew J. Belford Centre in honor of Andrew Belford, the University’s first director of admissions and visionary architect of the True Blue Campus.

SGU administrators shared their condolences and remembrances of Mr. Belford.

Dr. Glen Jacobs, provost of SGU: “The campus would not have become what it is today without Andy’s magnificent vision. Andy was a genuine and kind man, and I was fortunate to experience the positive impact that he had on SGU.”

Dr. C.V. Rao, dean of university alumni affairs: “Having started my career in teaching at SGU in 1977, I have had the unique perspective of seeing the full spectrum of SGU’s evolution. He will be greatly missed and every time I walk by the Andrew J. Belford Centre, I will remember the visionary who had such a remarkable influence on SGU.”

Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine: “Andy Belford and his contributions are a major part of the very DNA of SGU. Students and graduates throughout the past four decades have benefitted immeasurably from Andy Belford’s innovative and pioneering vision for our University.”

Dr. Daniel D. Ricciardi, executive vice president, clinical network development: “As part of SGU’s first graduating class in 1981, I can say emphatically that SGU would not be what it was today if it weren’t for the contributions of Andy Belford. He was an instrumental part of the foundation of SGU. God speed and rest in peace.”

Added Dr. Modica: “He will be missed by the entire St. George’s University community. He was my good friend, and I will miss him greatly.”

Mr. Belford is survived by his beloved partner, Charles Crawford; his brothers, Paul A. Belford (Patricia) and Michael K. Belford (Donamarie); his sister, Anne Ryan (Edward); and sister-in-law, Mary Susan Belford.

St. George’s University sends its deepest condolences to Mr. Belford’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. His invaluable impact on the growth and success of SGU will not be forgotten.

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky 

 

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Moving with Family to Grenada? SGU’s Student Family Network Offers Support and Resources

Student Family Network

How does St. George’s University support students who come to the island with significant others and families? What housing options are available for students with families? What is the schooling like for my kids in Grenada? Is my spouse able to work in Grenada while I’m in school?

These are some of the most common questions asked by students who make the move to Grenada with their significant others and family members.

SGU’s Student Family Network (SFN) (formerly known as the Significant Others Organization) can help. The student organization was established in 1994 as a support system for families of SGU students living in Grenada. Today, SFN prides itself on being a network of spouses, housemates, friends, family, partners, and pets—and offers resources to help them adjust to living on island.

SFN ambassador and School of Medicine student Brooke Hildebrand shared more details about the organization and how students (and faculty) with families can make the most of their time in Grenada.

SGU: What support can the SGU Student Family Network offer to students and their families?

BH: Moving to a new place is challenging. Moving to a whole new country is oftentimes emotionally terrifying! The SFN aims to ease some of the concerns and apprehension of acclimating to a new way of life by providing support, advice, and connections to anyone affiliated with SGU!

From knowing if there are eggs at the store, to finding buddies to go to the beach with, the communication and the community of SFN has proved a lifesaver for me and my family, so I can only hope it can help another in some way shape or form.

Student Family Network

 

 

SGU: What are some examples of resources that SFN offers to students?

BH: We offer various forms of communication options allowing ample questions and intercommunication among participants. Since we are a resource and not a traditional organization, there are no membership fees/dues or requirements for participation!

There are infinite “where to go” and “how to do” types of answers offered to the community through SGU Family Network communication avenues. Among our various social media presences and communication options we have sub-groups aimed toward uniting similar interest-minded individuals. Examples of a few of our group communications include: remote workers, playdates for children, SFN dudes group, book club, t-shirt design, non-kid events, and the monthly event planning groups.

SGU: What other ways do you help students and their families?

BH: Our diverse community has extensive knowledge in all aspects of life on the island, both on and off campus. We can assist with medical professional and dental referrals, lactation options on campus, any pet-related information, car and housing rental information, free time exploring options, and visa and passport renewal.

Importantly, the community bands together when things may seem amiss and jumps to help one another to ensure everyone is safe and well taken care of at all times.

SGU: Does the SFN organize activities? If so, how often?

BH: Yes! Our goal is to host a minimum of one official sanctioned event per month. We had a September kickball game; on Halloween, we trick-or-treated to the various departments on campus and other organizations hosted activity tables for kiddos, and a Thanksgiving end-of-term potluck meal!

In addition to the official activities, we do book club gatherings every

month, and a few participants have hosted gatherings off campus in various locations—some of which included hiking to the waterfalls and an evening beach party!

Student Family Network

SGU: Best piece of advice for students coming to the island with their families?

BH: I would recommend joining any of the SFN communication groups to understand the interworking’s of the island from an SGU point of view. For example, if you are living off campus, how far is a ‘5 minute’ walk going to take in rainy season and what is the terrain of that walk?

The SFN Exchange group may assist those trying to prioritize what to pack and condense their luggage into two bags. Take the time to follow and read what other people are posting or asking about in the groups to enhance your understanding of how to best prepare for the transition.

Connect with the Student Family Network


Website
SGU Student Family Network 

Facebook
SGU Family Network (SFN) 

SFN of SGU 

SFN of SGU Exchange

Instagram
@sfn_sgu

WhatsApp
Join chat

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

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5 Tips to Achieve Your Academic Goals in 2024

The start of the new term means new opportunities for students as they take one step closer to the degree—and career of their dreams. However, it takes lots of dedication, hard work, and excellent study strategies in order to earn that medical or veterinary medical degree—and  St. George’s University’s Department of Educational Services (DES) can help.

“DES can support students through several offerings, including individual advising and consultation, individual and group coaching sessions, small group tutorials, group workshops, courses, and other specialized programing for students in all university programs, and at all levels of achievement,” according to Dr. Sara Rabie, chair of DES.

One of the approaches DES uses to help students maximize their performance in their coursework and on licensure exams is through the Learning Strategies Unit (LSU). Donna Walker, the Unit’s director shared a list of strategies below, which are delivered through personalized, one-to-one meetings where specific learning gaps are identified and skills are developed.

 

 

With a team of five supportive administrative staff members and 48 full-time faculty from diverse disciplines with specialized expertise, at DES students can rest assured they have a group of dedicated learning strategists committed to helping them achieve their academic goals and excel in their chosen professions.

“Our team of learning strategists work from the LSU curriculum to empower students to master the strategies they need to become self-directed, lifelong learners,” said Ms. Walker. “To find the help they need, students can go to their school-specific site on the Learning Strategies page to find tailored resources just for them.”

Need support? Get in touch with DES! 

Email: des@sgu.edu 

Call: 473-444-5008

– Ray-Donna Peters

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Southeast Missouri State University Starts Partnership with St. George’s University for Pre-Med, Pre-Vet Students

Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) and St. George’s University (SGU), located in Grenada in the West Indies, entered an agreement this month to create a pipeline to medicine and veterinarian studies for students.

“St. George’s is thrilled to form this partnership with Southeast Missouri State 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 SEMO students to pursue their dreams of becoming a doctor or veterinarian.”

The agreement sets up a 4+4 program with the two institutions. After completing four years of pre-medicine or pre-veterinarian studies at Southeast, students who meet the requirements will be granted admission to SGU’s School of Medicine or School of Veterinary Medicine to continue 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 Southeast and then be granted entry into the SGU School of Medicine if meeting requirements.

“We recruit a lot of high-achieving international students who aspire to become physicians,” said Kevin Timlin, executive director of International Education for Southeast. “However, admission to U.S. medical school is very challenging, even more so for international applicants. Our agreement with SGU guarantees all SEMO graduates from the pre-medical program who meet the requirements will gain admission into their program. This is a great opportunity for qualified pre-med students to know that a seat at an accredited medical school is guaranteed.”

“For the last few years, there are more SGU graduates practicing medicine in the U.S. than any other medical school,” Timlin said. “While SGU is in the beautiful Caribbean nation of Grenada, their students do their residencies and internships in the U.S., and the programs seamlessly lead to practicing medicine in the U.S.”

Students who are accepted into the 3+4 or 4+4 programs for medical sciences will receive a $10,000 scholarship to be evenly dispersed throughout the SGU program. Students can apply for the 4+4 or 3+4 program when they apply to Southeast or while enrolled as students.

Interested students can visit SEMO’s dedicated landing page for the partnership with SGU to learn more about program requirements and opportunities.

 

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5 top SGU School of Medicine stories in 2023

SOM Must Read News of 2023

From lifelong dreams coming true on Match Day to expanded clinical opportunities to a prestigious grant that paved the way for students to complete mental health research in underserved communities, the St. George’s University School of Medicine community made its mark in 2023. 

Find out which stories made our list of SOM “must reads” this year. And when you’re done, don’t forget to read our top trending School of Veterinary Medicine stories this year as well. 

 

 

1. Match Day 2023 

Dreams came true for many aspiring physicians on Match Day 2023.

More than 1,000 medical students and graduates secured first-time residency positions in the US across specialties that included neurology, urology, emergency medicine, surgery, and more. Wondering what it feels like to match? SGU Students shared what it felt like to discover that all their hard work led them to being able to add “MD” next to their name.

Read how Dreams came true on Match Day 2023
View 2023 residencies

 

2. Back to School: Campus gets a mini makeover

Students coming to campus for the first time or returning to medical school in August 2023 came back to several expansion and redevelopment initiatives on the True Blue campus. This included a revamped bookstore, expanded Welcome Centre, renovations of the Charter Hall Radiology Lab, additional classrooms, and a new area for School of Veterinary Medicine communications curriculum.

See the renovations and mini makeover at the SGU True Blue campus

 

3. Clinical rotation opportunities: SGU expands its partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals

Earlier this year, SGU renewed and expanded its relationship with NYC Health + Hospitals to bolster the pipeline of physicians from diverse backgrounds into New York’s healthcare system.

The agreement extends opportunities for SGU medical students to complete clinical rotations at affiliated NYC hospitals during their third and fourth years of study, gaining hands-on experience at some of the most culturally diverse hospitals in the country.  The agreement also increases the number of full-tuition medical school scholarships awarded through the SGU School of Medicine CityDoctors scholarship program from 12 to 15 each year.

Learn how SGU and NYC Health + Hospitals are strengthening the clinical rotation pipeline

 

4. Making a difference: Students use grant to further mental health research

Two School of Medicine students used a prestigious grant awarded to St. George’s University to further their research in mental health initiatives for underserved communities.

SGU and fourth-year students John Crane and Janice Lee were among the 2022-2023 recipients of  The American Psychiatric Association Foundation’s (APAF) Helping Hands Grant Program. SGU is one of the few international medical schools to receive the award since the program’s inception in 2005.

Read how SGU students used a prestigious APA “Helping Hands Grant” to benefit underserved populations

 

5. Why a Caribbean school was right for me: SOM grad featured in AMSA’s The New Physician

Earning an MD from a Caribbean medical school offers several benefits to future physicians, and SGU alum Joshua Ramjist, MD ’11, shared his advice for those weighing the pros and cons of attending an institution outside of the United States.

“My advice? Go for it, but do your research first,” according to an editorial written by the pediatric surgery fellow in the Spring issue of the American Medical Student Association’s The New Physician.

Titled, “A Global Education Helped Me Become a Better Doctor It Can Do the Same for You,” Dr. Ramjist shared his positive experience as a student at St. George’s University and why he chose to attend a Caribbean medical school.

Read about the School of Medicine grad featured in AMSA’s The New Physician

 

-Laurie Chartorynsky 

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5 top SGU School of Veterinary Medicine stories in 2023

5 Trending SGU School of Veterinary Medicine stories in 2023

From students and graduates matching in competitive veterinary residencies and internships to InVeST 2023 taking place in Grenada to profiles of successful dual-degree graduates, the St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine community made its mark in 2023.

Find out which stories made our list of SVM top trending stories this year. And when you’re done, don’t forget to read our must read School of Medicine stories this year as well.

 

 

SVM commencement 2023

1. SVM commencement—A 20-year legacy

The School of Veterinary Medicine graduation ceremony this past June was full of emotional moments and joyful celebrations. Nearly 200 graduates walked across the stage to commemorate their years of hard work at the ceremony held at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, NY.

“Twenty years ago, SGU graduated its first class of veterinary medicine, and 30 students graduated young, enthusiastic, and ready to take on the world,” said Dr. Tara Patterson, associate professor, president of the School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association, and a charter class member of the SVM. “Today, SGU has produced over 2,000 Doctors of Veterinary Medicine.”

 

Read how: SVM celebrated its 20-year legacy at the Class of 2023’s commencement

 

SVM student Adriana Kalaska, DVM '23, matched in the 2023 VIRMP

2. Match 2023—Students secure competitive internship and residency positions

Thirty-seven SVM students and graduates secured competitive internship and residency positions within the 2023 Veterinary Internship & Residency Matching Program (VIRMP).  

SGU-trained veterinarians achieved a match rate of 69.8 percent, the highest among Caribbean veterinary schools, according to data released by the VIRMP, a program sponsored by the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians (AAVC).

The veterinarians began their specialized training in June, in areas such as small animal internal medicine, emergency and critical care, surgery, cardiology, neurology, and diagnostic imaging within prestigious institutions in the US and Canada.

Read how: 37 SVM students secured competitive internship and residency positions through 2023 VIRMP Match

 

SGU SVM dual degree graduates Dr. Adria Rodriguez

3. Grads share their experiences in getting dual DVM and master’s degree

Whether it’s exploring the intersection of animal health and the human world, focusing on fundamental and applied research, or improving their business skills, SGU’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine dual master’s degree options offer aspiring veterinarians in-depth learning opportunities and expertise within their field of choice—and enhanced career prospects.

Read more about: Pursuing a dual degree in veterinary medicine: Grads share their experiences

 

InVeST 2023

4. InVeST 2023 comes to Grenada

Veterinary experts traveled to SGU’s True Blue campus in February for the 7th International Veterinary Simulation in Teaching (InVeST) conference. Conference goers—including veterinarians, InVeST members, representatives from educational institutions, researchers, students, and more than 50 SGUSVM faculty, staff, and alumni—spent three days attending interactive sessions and learning how the rapidly growing area of simulation is being incorporated into the teaching practices of veterinary medicine.

SGU’s very own Dr. Francesca Ivaldi, associate professor in the Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, received the award for “Best Oral Presentation” for her presentation about the “Development of a Comprehensive Simulated Patient Model for the Physical Examination of the Dog.”

View photos from InVeST 2023: Conference goers travel to Grenada to learn latest trends in veterinary simulation

 

Andrew Kushnir, DVM '19, with rescued lion cubs from Ukraine-Russia war

5. Grad reflects on volunteering during Ukraine-Russia war

Andrew Kushnir, DVM ’19, spent most of 2022 volunteering his time to work with animal rescue groups and zoos to help vulnerable animals affected by the Russian-Ukraine war.

During his time in Ukraine and Poland, Dr. Kushnir saw horrific destruction and pain but also experienced joy and gratitude through the eyes of the animals he cared for, including three African lion cubs. Earlier this year, Dr. Kushnir reflected on his experience, sharing with SGU News what he learned about himself as a veterinarian and caretaker, and his plans to continue supporting animals—and their owners—most in need.

Read more about Dr. Kushnir’s experience: SVM grad reflects on Ukraine volunteer experience: “By helping people’s pets, we were helping the people”

 

 

-Laurie Chartorynsky

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2 New Canadian Sites Join St. George’s University Clinical Elective Network

clinical students and attending in hospital

St. George’s University School of Medicine has added two new clinical elective sites in Canada, offering aspiring physicians’ more ways to gain hands-on experience in the country.

The addition of the two clinical sites—Park Street Clinic and Heart Care Canada, both located in Ontario—brings the school’s total elective options for students to nine in Canada. Students can choose elective rotations at sites including North Bay Dermatology Centre, Ottawa Cardiovascular Centre and Booth Neurology Clinic, as well as Pembroke Regional Hospital in Ontario, among others. By engaging in elective rotations in Canada, fourth-year students interested in practicing there are introduced to the country’s healthcare system.

Since 2020, more than 200 SGU students have participated in elective rotations in Canada. * All told, more than 75 hospitals and clinics in the US, UK, and Canada are available for students to obtain clinical training.

Valuable Learning Experience

“SGU is committed to preparing our students with the foundation of knowledge and clinical skills to succeed in their medical careers,” said Dr. Richard Liebowitz, vice chancellor at St. George’s University. “We are excited to offer students more opportunities to train in Canada. This speaks to the emphasis the University places on offering valuable learning experiences to students who eventually wish to return to Canada to practice medicine.”

On the blog: The international student’s guide to landing a medical residency in Canada

 

Engaging in electives in Canada also provides students with networking opportunities and the potential to obtain a letter of reference, “which is critical for those seeking postgraduate medical training opportunities back home,” said Jibran Vahidy, director of admissions and partnerships at St. George’s University.

Students may choose from elective specialties that include pediatrics, ophthalmology, OB/GYN, dermatology, cardiology, neurology, and more.

“Our newest elective partners offer exceptional clerkship opportunities in ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) and cardiology in key locations across Ontario, where a large percentage of our Canadian students hail from,” Mr. Vahidy said.

“We are excited to welcome students to Heart Care, a modern high-volume cardiology and internal medicine practice,” said Dr. Rishi Bhargava, internist and cardiologist at Heart Care Canada, and an SGU alumnus. “I hope to give back to SGU and its trainees in hopes of providing them with a unique opportunity to train close to home.”

More than 2,200 graduates of SGU’s School of Medicine are from Canada. ** SGU has placed 196 Canadian graduates into Canadian residencies. ***

The electives are currently available for fourth-year students.

Park Street Clinic in Ontario, Canada

Park Street Clinic is one of two new elective sites in Canada where fourth-year SOM students can choose to do elective rotations.

 

*Data as of November 2023.

**Based on the number of students who have completed the Doctor of Medicine program from 1981-2023.

***Data as of July 2022.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

 

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No-Shave November: St. George’s University Vice Provost Shares Tips for Prioritizing Your Health

Brendon La Grenade, vice provost for Institutional Advancement

The month of November is recognized as No-Shave November also known as “Movember.” During the month, men around the world grow their beards to spark conversation and raise awareness about several prominent diseases including prostate and testicular cancer, as well as mental health and suicide prevention in men. 

As an avid sports enthusiast, Dr. Brendon La Grenade, vice provost for Institutional Advancement at St. George’s University, is an advocate for men’s health and engages in several weekly physical activities to help him stay in shape. He also encourages men to not take their health for granted and to be adamant about getting annual checkups.  

“I implore all men to take a moment, go sit with your physician, and hear about your health so that you can be there for those who want you to be there for them” said Dr. La Grenade. 

Here are five ways Dr. La Grenade prioritizes his health and stays active:  

  • Playing sports such as tennis and soccer. 
  • Eating healthy. Dr. La Grenade admits he is a “foodie” and enjoys cooking his own meals. 
  • Weekly runs. 
  • Going to the gym once to twice per week. 
  • Hiking. 

“Let’s use this November as the month to encourage our men to get out there and make appointments to get that checkup,” Dr. La Grenade said. 

 

 

 

 -Istra Bell

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