SAS Alumna Finds New Purpose in Life

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As a part-time student and full-time employee at St. George’s University, Samanta Johnson, BSc ’22, always knew that if she obtained her bachelor’s degree, more doors would open for her professionally, allowing her to create more purpose in her life.

This month, Ms. Johnson graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in management. The grad is about to embark on the next step in her professional career.

On July 1, she begins her new role at the University, as coordinator of campus life within the Office of the Dean of Students. Ms. Johnson has worked for the past 13 years within the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pharmacology—where she started off as a secretary and was later promoted to executive secretary within the same department.

She shared with SGU News that completing her degree at SGU has been the greatest accomplishment of her career so far and how it has boosted her desire to grow both personally and professionally.

St. George’s University: What are you most looking forward to accomplishing in your new role?

Ms. Johnson: As I transition into my new position, I will have the opportunity to assist within the areas of planning and oversight of new student orientation, Family Weekend, White Coat Ceremonies, student organizations, and SOM College events. Also, with everyone being back on campus next term, I’m looking forward to having more in-person interactions and cultivating an even more collaborative environment as I support with the recruitment, training, and supervision of various student assistance teams.

SGU: Share what your student experience was like at SGU and its impact on your life. 

Ms. Johnson: Being a student at SGU has been one of the defining moments of my life—one that has brought me many opportunities. The University is extremely student centric and there is a breadth of support services that students have at their disposal, for both new and seasoned students. From inception, students can learn all that SGU has to offer in the Introduction to University life presentation, which provides vital information to first-year students to ensure their success.

I believe that regardless of your current position, there is always more to learn and once you invest in your professional growth it creates self-awareness, tenacity, humility, and the like. Being a student at St. George’s has pushed me out of my comfort zone and inspired me to think differently—in a positive way.

 

“I believe that regardless of your current position, there is always more to learn and once you invest in your professional growth it creates self-awareness, tenacity, humility, and the like. Being a student at St. George’s has pushed me out of my comfort zone and inspired me to think differently—in a positive way.”

 

SGU: How did it feel to walk across the stage at commencement?

Ms. Johnson: For me, graduation signified that I completed a certain period in my life. Not having to consistently attend classes anymore, I felt as if I was leaving behind an organized set of routines, and it was a bittersweet occasion for me. Yet, on the day itself I felt honored and accomplished. The chance to walk across the stage and become an SGU alumna brought feelings of happiness, excitement, and pride.

Throughout the years, there was always a goal in my mind to earn my bachelor’s degree. Completing that degree and graduating with honors, whilst being a full-time employee has been my greatest accomplishment in my career thus far. My goal in the future is to continue to improve myself, continue reaching for greatness, and becoming an expert in my field.

SGU: How well do you feel that SGU prepared you for the next step in your journey?

Ms. Johnson: SGU has aided me in developing my confidence and assertiveness. I am much surer of myself, and I believe I can accomplish everything I set my mind to. The University also instilled in me a sense of wanting to achieve more and not settling for less.

SGU: What would you say to an aspiring student considering going to SGU? 

Ms. Johnson: I believe prospective students will have a unique opportunity to study and learn in a multicultural setting that will benefit them both academically and personally. They will also be immersed in a professional environment from the very beginning of their journey.

– Ray-Donna Peters

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SGU Alum Named Attending Physician of the Year at UCSD

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Kunal Agrawal, MD ’11, recently received the honor of “Attending Physician of the Year for 2022” from the University of California at San Diego. The California native is currently associate professor of neurosciences at UC San Diego Health System and program director of the Vascular Neurology Fellowship.

To be considered for Attending Physician of the Year, Dr. Agrawal had to be nominated by a colleague and evaluated by a Medical Executive Committee who then selects one attending physician out of the pool of nominations from within the UCSD Health System.

When asked about the award, Dr. Agrawal stated, “I am honored and mostly I am humbled. This award caught me off guard, but confirms I have chosen a great career path that continues to motivate me.”

Dr. Agrawal started out in bioengineering but found himself drawn to neuroscience classes while pursuing his undergraduate degree at UC San Diego. He then shifted to a neuroscience major, which led him to his career in medicine.

“Medicine was one of the few fields that would allow me to take ownership of my career path because of the ways you can impact lives as a physician. I love the teaching, research, and seeing the difference I can make,” said Dr. Agrawal.

“SGU provided me the opportunity to become a physician and work harder and smarter,” he continued. “My experiences at SGU allowed me to have a well-rounded experience of observing how different hospital systems in the US function. I feel that I have become a better physician by being able to refer to my time at SGU to guide my career and approach to patient care.”

 

“I feel that I have become a better physician by being able to refer to my time at SGU to guide my career and approach to patient care.”

 

Following graduation, Dr. Agrawal found success in residency and fellowship, which he sees as being some of the most formative experiences that have led him to this honor. He interned at St. Barnabas Medical Center and completed a neurology residency at George Washington University before returning to UC San Diego for vascular neurology fellowship.

“I was fortunate to have trained in programs that emphasize the importance of relying on clinical intuition and developing a systematic and efficient approach to patient care,” said Dr. Agrawal.

Just as he has at UCSD, Dr. Agrawal made a mark on SGU, and the faculty remember him fondly.

“I remember Kunal as a very sincere and dedicated student at SGU,” said Dr. CV Rao, dean of University Alumni Affairs. “This sincerity and dedication have clearly remained consistent throughout his career and served him well. We are all very proud to call him one of our own.”

As for Dr. Agrawal’s favorite memory from SGU, he reflects on the people he encountered. “I could not have asked for a better graduating class from SGU,” he said. “I continue to maintain lifelong friendships with my graduating class, and of course, I met my fantastic wife at SGU—perhaps the best memory of all.”

 

—Sarah Stoss

 

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Raise the Line podcast: SOM Dean speaks the language of medicine

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What does it mean to speak the language of medicine? Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of St. George’s University School of Medicine, spoke with Dr. Rishi Desai about what it means to him on the podcast Raise the Line.

In the episode titled “Speaking the Language of Medicine,” Dr. Loukas provided insight on what he’s learned throughout his career as both a researcher and professor, and specifically by working for SGU, the largest provider of doctors to the US healthcare system. He also shared advice for those beginning their journey into medicine, and why he believes SGU’s approach to medical education has been and will continue to be key in helping to fill the gap of primary care physicians in the US.

As for how Dr. Loukas got to where he is now and why he’s chosen that path, he said: “Medicine, for me, it’s a way of living. You constantly have to be optimistic and love humanity. You need to really love what you do. Medicine is not about the money, the prestige, or the glory. It can be part, I think sometimes, of who we are, but it’s not the reason that 99% of the physicians chose that pathway. I think there is nothing more fulfilling than to ease the pain of a patient, or to see somebody who is sick be healthy again and continue their life and live for many, many years. I think that feeling is powerful and humbling at the same time.”

 

Listen to the full episode here

 

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A Shared Resilience: SAS, SGS Class of 2022 Celebrates at Grenada Commencement Ceremony

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It was a sight to remember. After facing uncertainty throughout their studies from the COVID-19 pandemic, the St. George’s University Schools of Arts and Sciences, and Graduate Studies Class of 2022 stood with pride and gratitude as they received their degrees on Saturday, May 14.

Held in-person for the first time since the pandemic began in 2020—and for the first time outside the True Blue campus—the event featured 1,400 attendees at the Grenada National Cricket Stadium, while more than 10,000 viewers tuned in online to watch the ceremony live.

“This is a significant ceremony because it is a post-pandemic ceremony,” said Dr. Charles R. Modica, chancellor and co-founder of SGU, and this year’s keynote speaker. “There were many hardships along the way, but you managed to find a way to succeed. I have the greatest admiration and respect for you as the first post-pandemic in-person graduating class.”

 

View Grenada Commencement Ceremony on YouTube

 

Among the 200 graduates from 40 countries were husband and wife duo, Clevon Noel, BSc ’11, MBA ’22, and Sallisha Noel, BSc ’22. Mrs. Noel received her undergraduate degree in business management while her husband, this year’s class speaker gave a rousing speech on behalf of his fellow graduands in the School of Graduate Studies. Proudly cheering them on in the stands were their two children and other members of their family.

“I feel ecstatic today not just as the wife of the class speaker but for also having earned my place upon that stage,” shared Mrs. Noel. “I’m elated that we get to share this moment together and with [our peers]. In the future, I look forward to pursuing my master’s in operations and logistics while also working with my husband in his company, Metarelic.”

Mr. Noel was selected as class speaker for his scholarly achievements and community participation. He has established himself as a respected digital expert and strategist in Grenada, and using his considerable talents as a techno entrepreneur, he has founded a number of award-winning digital companies, which today serve clients such as The World Bank.

 

“One of the greatest endowments of being SGU’s Class of 2022 is knowing how to discover and rediscover ourselves in the face of adversity. I commit this class to what I call the ‘how’ principle. How can my actions make a better world for my friends, family, community, country and beyond? If we keep these questions in mind, we will be impactful wherever we go.”

 

“One of the greatest endowments of being SGU’s Class of 2022 is knowing how to discover and rediscover ourselves in the face of adversity,” stated Mr. Noel. “I commit this class to what I call the ‘how’ principle. How can my actions make a better world for my friends, family, community, country and beyond? If we keep these questions in mind, we will be impactful wherever we go.”

Joining Mr. Noel as a commencement speaker was valedictorian for the School of Arts and Sciences, Jesse R. Becker. Ms. Becker completed her bachelor’s in medical sciences with a perfect 4.0 GPA and is currently a Term 2 student in the School of Medicine.

“Our shared experience is truly unprecedented,” said Ms. Becker. “Not many graduates from SGU can say they started classes in person, then studied from home, and returned to graduate in person. The amount of resilience I see in my peers before me is truly humbling and I’m glad to be among such incredible students. I want to remind all graduates that while one chapter closes, [another] one opens and is waiting for you. Your choices will continue to take you to great places, and you truly can achieve anything you dream of.”

Degrees were conferred on the classes of August and December 2021, and January and May 2022 in the Schools of Arts and Sciences and Graduate Studies, and Medicine. In addition, SGU hosts the Gamma Kappa chapter of the Delta Omega Honors Society and inducted the top 10 percent of this year’s MPH graduates into the chapter for demonstrating excellence in education and scholarship in research and service.

Ceremonies for the Schools of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine will take place at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York on June 4-5.

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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5 Students Who Matched into the Residency of their Dreams

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What’s it like to match in a competitive specialty for residency?

This summer, hundreds of St. George’s University students will begin the next phase of their medical careers—by making the transition from student to resident. SGU students matched into first-year residency positions across a variety of specialties and throughout the US, including highly-competitive fields like orthopedic surgery, neurology, and anesthesiology, to name a few.

SGU News asked several students who matched into hard-to-get residency positions why their chosen field appealed to them, and the advice they have for the next group of students on how to secure the residency of their dreams.

 

View all 2022 residency placements

 

 

Julie Hansen

Internal Medicine, Physician Scientist track

Medical College of Wisconsin

Hometown: Menomonee Falls, WI

 

SGU: How did you become interested in the specialty you selected? 

Ms. Hansen: I have always wanted to become a physician, but during college I fell in love with research. Before applying to medical school, I worked as a biopharmaceutical scientist for two years and as a nutraceutical R&D scientist for two years. These experiences further drove my passion for research and showed me the potential for bridging the gap between medicine and translational research.

When I started at SGU, I didn’t know anything about physician-scientist positions for residency. It wasn’t until I was midway through my internal medicine rotation when I started exploring physicians who have careers in medicine and research, and I stumbled upon physician-scientists. I knew it was a perfect match for me. I spent time researching exactly what I would need to be considered for a physician scientist position and I put the work in because I knew I could achieve it, even as an international medical graduate. As an IMG we do get counted out at times, but when someone counts me out, I ask them to count again!

SGU: In what ways did your medical education prepare you to enter this specialty?

Ms. Hansen: SGU was my ticket to everything! SGU gave me the foundation and tools necessary to achieve my goals. Aside from academics, I learned that SGU offers research opportunities to students starting in Term 2. This allowed me to work with Dr. Paul Fields in the Office of Research for a year and a half on initiating and gaining approval for three clinical trials.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched?

Ms. Hansen: It was the happiest day of my life.

SGU: What are you most looking forward to in your residency? 

Ms. Hansen: I am looking forward to working hard, gaining knowledge, and growing my skills to best service my community. I look forward to performing extensive research during my three research years in residency/fellowship.

SGU: What’s the most important lesson you learned at SGU that you will take with you in residency?

Ms. Hansen: Just because you’re an “underdog” doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of amazing things. If you put yourself in the right position for success and strive every day to be who you want to be, your dreams will come true.

 

“You have so much more potential than you can imagine. Believing in yourself is the first step to becoming successful.”

 

Olumide Olotu

Orthopedic Surgery

Western University Hospital

Hometown/Country: Nigeria 

 

SGU: How did you become interested in the specialty you selected?

Mr. Olotu: I completed my undergraduate degree in kinesiology. I also worked at physiotherapy clinic before going to medical school. So, entering medical school, I was sort of biased towards the musculoskeletal system and had an interest in orthopedic surgery.

SGU: In what ways did SGU prepare you to enter this specialty?

Mr. Olotu: My third-year experience at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit was amazing. I received well-rounded exposure to a wide variety of specialties including orthopedic surgery. This experience was crucial to my pursuit of orthopedics as a career.

Also, in my fourth year, all Canadian visiting electives were closed due to COVID-19. But through SGU, I was able to secure an elective at Pembroke Regional Hospital, a community hospital just outside Ottawa. Spending four weeks there, I worked closely with three orthopedic surgeons where I got a lot of hands-on experience. I was always the first assist in the OR and was actively involved in fracture clinic. To top it off, I was able to obtain multiple Canadian letters of recommendation from that rotation which helped my Canadian residency application.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched?

Mr. Olotu: It was exhilarating. I wish I could capture that feeling and put it in a bottle. For a long time, it almost didn’t feel real. I couldn’t believe I finally achieved my goal I set at the beginning of medical school. I was on FaceTime with my sister when I checked my result, and she secretly recorded my reaction. Watching it brings back all the memories.

SGU: What are you most looking forward to in your residency?

Mr. Olotu: I look forward to being back in the hospital environment and spending more time in the OR.

 SGU: What’s the most important lesson you learned at SGU that you will take with you in residency?

Mr. Olotu: Never give up on your dreams and goals, no matter how audacious they may seem. All it takes is one opportunity to show your worth.

Giavanna Verdi

Pediatrics/Medical Genetics and Genomics

University of Alabama Medical Center

Hometown: Wading River, NY

 

SGU: How did you become interested in the specialty you selected? 

Ms. Verdi: Pediatric/Medical Genetics grabbed my attention simply because it combines two of my favorite specialties!

Through many shared smiles and achievements in both recreational and educational settings with kids of all ages, I have found alacrity in becoming a clinician who promotes children’s health and understanding of their diagnosed disease. I am drawn to pediatrics for the never-ending questions to be answered and disease processes to be discovered.

As for my interest in medical genetics, this field allows me to further my passion for advancing the field through research involvement. While partaking in the detective work in medicine, there will be satisfaction in learning new disorders daily and in providing resources to patients and their families for overcoming the challenges with a rare diagnosis. With my experiences studying and training in medicine abroad, I aspire to open a clinic in an underserved area and patron outreach medicine—and hopefully helping to reverse the lack of diversity in examples of several genetic disorders.

SGU: In what ways did your medical education prepare you to enter this specialty?

Ms. Verdi: My most memorable experience in Grenada was when I visited the Grenada General Hospital with a former SGU professor. We arrived at the maternal unit and found a young mother with her week-old baby boy lying in bed. I sat beside her, and she confided in me about how her son looked different than other children, with low-set ears, widespread eyes, and lip dysmorphia. I felt how much she appreciated the ability to share her fears and concerns with me. A blood sample was collected to determine not only a diagnosis but to provide insight and understanding of the baby’s disorder.

Delicately navigating complex social situations and family dynamics, along with compassion for both mother and baby, are crucial for becoming a successful pediatrician.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched?

Ms. Verdi: When I found out I matched into my top choice, my heart immediately dropped. I could not believe I fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine.

SGU: What are you most looking forward to in your residency? 

Ms. Verdi: The interactions I will have with my future patients and their families. Hearing their stories, including where they are from, their family traditions, their previous and upcoming vacations and holiday celebrations, and so much more!

SGU: What’s the most important lesson you learned at SGU that you will take with you on this next step of your professional journey?

Ms. Verdi: It took me a long time to realize this—you are greater than you think you are. You have so much more potential than you can imagine. Believing in yourself is the first step to becoming successful.

Marshall Harrell

Radiation Oncology

The Ohio State University Hospital

Preliminary year: Internal Medicine at Florida State University

Hometown: Tallahassee, FL

 

SGU: How did you become interested in the specialty you selected?

Mr. Harrell: Radiation oncology is often referred to as the “best kept secret in medicine.” This rings true because it is a wonderful specialty but most medical students, whether US or IMG, do not get much exposure to it during their medical school career unless they take it as a fourth-year elective.

I was very lucky to have the opportunity to shadow one of my professors who was a radiation oncologist while completing my undergraduate degree in nutrition science at UC Davis. He became my mentor and helped guide me in my path to medical school.

SGU: In what ways did SGU prepare you to enter this specialty?

Mr. Harrell: SGU provided me with a strong education in the genetic and cellular mechanisms of cancer biology, as well as an intensive cancer pharmacology curriculum. Radiation oncology is very anatomy-oriented, so the anatomy and radiology training I received is also of great benefit. The most pivotal training I received, however, was during my radiation oncology elective rotation at The Brooklyn Hospital Center.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched?

Mr. Harrell: I would have to say “ecstatic” is a pretty accurate description.

SGU: What are you most looking forward to in your residency? 

Mr. Harrell: Radiation oncology is an incredibly exciting field right now. There are many new technological advancements and innovations in how treatments are planned and delivered. For example, the hospital where I matched has a new state-of-the-art proton center, which will provide me with excellent opportunities in training and research.

Most of all, however, I am looking forward to working with patients, building relationships, and reaching the point in my own development where I am confident and knowledgeable enough to provide excellent care and help improve the lives of my patients.

SGU: What’s the most important lesson you learned at SGU that you will take with you on this next step of your professional journey?

Mr. Harrell: Focus on thoroughly understanding the fundamentals. If you work on understanding concepts and underlying mechanisms, and how to apply that reasoning during your clinical encounters, you will be more likely to find the correct diagnoses and implement the appropriate treatment options.

 

“I couldn’t believe I finally achieved my goal I set at the beginning of medical school. I was on FaceTime with my sister when I checked my result, and she secretly recorded my reaction.”

 

 

Hailey Carruthers

Diagnostic Radiology      

St. Joseph Mercy-Oakland Program

Hometown: Ontario, Canada

 

SGU: How did you become interested in the specialty you selected?

Ms. Carruthers: During my third-year clinical rotations, I found myself captivated by examining imaging for my patients. I appreciated the multi-faceted nature of radiology, working across different organ systems and the many specialties. I quickly realized just how many patients that radiologists help in a single day. I was then lucky enough to have the chance to follow a patient to interventional radiology. I loved the creative and collaborative atmosphere in the IR suite, with myself as a medical student, residents, technicians, and attendings all working together and discussing the case. I was hooked.

SGU: In what ways did SGU prepare you to enter this specialty?

Ms. Carruthers: SGU provided me with the all the foundational knowledge I need moving forward and set up clinical rotations where I felt comfortable to ask questions and learn from attendings who built up my confidence.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched?

Ms. Carruthers: Overwhelming. Being both an international medical graduate and a non-US citizen I knew it would be an uphill battle. Many IMGs feel like the more competitive specialties are off the table from the get-go, but I whole-heartedly believe that any obstacles can be overcome with the right mindset and dedication. My first words were “I did it.”

SGU: What are you most looking forward to in your residency?

Ms. Carruthers: The next step and continuing to grow as a young physician. I am looking forward to learning from the amazing faculty at the program who gave me a shot, and I hope to encourage more women looking to enter the more male dominated and competitive fields.

SGU: What’s the most important lesson you learned at SGU that you will take with you into residency?

Ms. Carruthers: Through SGU, I found some incredible mentors who were invested in me and supported me through the ups and downs of applications. They created a shared experience and a sense of community where alumni and trainees look after one another. I hope that by sharing my story and experiences it will inspire those who think it’s not possible, the way my mentors inspired me. Never be deterred from your passion.

 

 

—Sarah Stoss

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A friendly face in SOM and SAS: Faculty spotlight on Dr. Cristofre Martin

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St. George’s University professor, Dr. Cristofre Martin, is often one of the first faculty members that new undergraduate general biology students and new MD students get to know.

Because many general biology students go on to be admitted to the School of Medicine—in his dual roles as chair of the Department of Biology, Ecology and Conservation in the School of Arts and Sciences and as a professor of biochemistry in the School of Medicine—Dr. Martin is a constant for them as they take the next step in their professional journeys.

“By being involved in both schools I am able to mentor undergraduate students who aspire to become doctors by guiding them in their program and defining the requirements and expectations they need to meet to be admitted into the medical program,” said Dr. Martin.

Dr. Martin believes that when students recognize him from their undergraduate studies during their first week of med school, it’s an equally proud moment for both professor and student.

“It’s kind of a ‘See Dr. Martin! I made it!’ moment for them,” he shared. “And for me, it’s a wonderful experience seeing students who start out in SAS still fresh from their high school studies, maturing as undergraduate students, then beginning their training as MDs, and often later receiving messages from them when they become practicing physicians.”

 

“I get excited about teaching in my field and try to transmit that enthusiasm to my students.”

 

A Proud Moment

Dr. Martin began his academic training in zoology at the University of Manitoba in Canada. His interests evolved as the new field of molecular biology emerged, and, as he stated, he “saw the future.” The rest of his training and early career research was then dedicated to molecular medicine, genetics, and developmental biology. This combination of training led him to SGU in 2005 and eventually to his dual role at the University.

Recently, Dr. Martin played a pivotal role in the accreditation for SGU’s BSc (Honors) in Marine, Wildlife and Conservation Biology by the Royal Society of Biology.

It wasn’t a simple, or short, process to receive the accreditation. According to Dr. Martin, it took two years of faculty working tirelessly to develop the evidence for the program. Most of the work took place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the department not only working toward success in the effort to receive accreditation, but also adjusting to the transition to online teaching. But the hard work was well worth it.

“It was an incredible team-building experience and it helped faculty see the important contributions that each of them makes for our students,” Dr. Martin said. “It brought us all together with a single goal. All these challenges did not distract faculty from our accreditation mission, and I am so proud of them for their commitment to our students.”

When the department finally received word of its success, it triggered an incredible burst of energy throughout all those who worked hard to achieve the result.

“This accreditation established our department as a Center of Excellence in the field of conservation biology,” said Dr. Martin. “Equally rewarding was calling a meeting with our Marine, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology students to inform them their degree is now accredited. Our students can now be confident that the training they are getting is of the highest standard and will help them reach their career goals.”

 The department, of course, isn’t stopping there. They hope this accreditation will bring more students to the program, including international students seeking a degree in the fields of marine and conservation biology. Dr. Martin also said the department’s next big project is working to develop a MSc in Marine, Wildlife and Conservation Biology that will allow students to continue their education.

“It will give students the opportunity to utilize the skills they learned in their undergraduate training to conduct meaningful scientific research that aims to address questions that are so important for small island development nations such as climate change, natural resource management, and environmental conservation,” added Dr. Martin.

A Found Passion

While this administrative process led to immense pride for Dr. Martin, his true passion is teaching.

“I get excited about teaching in my field and try to transmit that enthusiasm to my students. I do this by expressing my passion in the classroom and holding the student’s attention by being fun in class, and sometimes a bit crazy,” he said.

This passion may come from witnessing what Dr. Martin described as the “transformative power of St. George’s University,” which lives within the students he teaches.

“For many of our undergraduate students, they are the first generation of their family to receive a university education,” said Dr. Martin. “Over the 16 years I have been at SGU, I have witnessed how this has transformed the landscape in Grenada.   Our graduates are now working in government ministries, regional NGOs, tourism industries, education, and various research groups. These graduates of SGU will be forming the decisions on the future of the region and especially Grenada.”

 

 

— Sarah Stoss

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A Doctor’s View Podcast: Alum shares his medical school experience

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There are many questions surrounding international medical schools and what attending one means for a grad’s career outlook. Joshua Ramjist, MD ’11, knows something about that. He is a St. George’s University alum who developed his medical career in four different countries—the UK as part of the SGU/Northumbria University Program, in Grenada to complete his medical education, then on to the US for residency, and two research years in his native Canada.

To share his journey and provide answers to common questions regarding international medical school, Dr. Ramjist joined Dr. Paul Polyvios on the podcast A Doctor’s View in the episode titled “Studying medicine at an international university and working in the USA” to provide insight on his experience at St. George’s University and detail his career that followed.

As for Dr. Ramjist’s advice to those who hope to follow a path similar to his, he said: “It’s not for everyone. But for individuals who are open minded and really are excited to have this experience and are looking for a little bit of variability in their life, it’s one of the greatest experiences I’ve had.”

 

Listen to the full episode here

 

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Victory! After Two-Year Hiatus, SOM College Olympics Returns

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After a two-year hiatus, St. George’s University School of Medicine Olympics returned last weekend. Students and faculty of each of the nine Colleges competed in a battle of physical endurance to win the title of “Olympic Champions.”

The event took place on the True Blue campus playing field, where students and faculty competed in games that included friendly competition in volleyball, dodgeball, an obstacle course, 100-meter race, 400-meter relay, three-legged and wheelbarrow races, and the highly anticipated tug-of-war. The day also featured a half-time show performance by SGU’s cheerleading squad and ended in a prize giving ceremony announcing this year’s Olympic Champions.

 

View Instagram reel

 

“The SOM College Olympics’ primary purpose is to bring together students, staff, and faculty to participate in a day of healthy competition,” said Dr. Vivek Nuguri, Curie College director and clinical instructor within the Department of Pathology. “Additionally, it fulfills another major objective of helping the students relax amid their challenging schedules. It also helps inculcate a feeling of fraternity and togetherness among the students and faculty and helps improve campus wellness.”

The triumphant team was decided by winning the evening’s most popular event—the tug-of-war. Rivals Galen and Blackwell Colleges met in the final rounds, but it was the Galen team that emerged victorious this year. With the additional 50 points earned from winning the tug-of-war, Galen College was able to secure the lead at 286 points, followed by Fleming College with 217 points, and Blackwell College placing third with 211 points.

“This win means so much to me personally,” shared Chukwuebuka Udokporo, SOM Term 5 student and Galen College member.

“This is my last semester here at SGU, so I’m really happy I got to participate in the games before I leave the island,” Mr. Udokporo said. “The memory of this experience is something I get to take back with me to the United States when I do my clinical rotations. When I arrived on the field today, I didn’t know anybody outside of my college but over the course of the day I got to meet new people and form friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime.”

The SOM College system was created in 2018 and named after influential physicians and scientists in history—consisting of Blackwell, Galen, Taylor, McIndoe, Peabody, Curie, Fleming, Metrodora, and Hippocrates Colleges. The mission of the system is to create an intimate learning environment in which students are consistently supported (both socially and academically) as they develop the knowledge, skills, compassion, and integrity required to be a practicing physician while adjusting to life in Grenada.

During the competition’s inaugural event in 2019, it was the Curie College team that was victorious, despite entering the Olympic games as underdogs. The event was then canceled for 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID pandemic. Staff and faculty were eager to restart the games this year.

“Each College 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, and a proud member of Galen College. “The SOM College Olympics and other intercollegiate social events and competitions were created to nurture that feeling of school spirit by providing an opportunity for the campus community to both compete—and get out there and have some fun.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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SOM Student Check-In: Carley Greco, Third-Year Clinical Student

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Quick Stats:
Hometown: Kings Park, NY
Expected graduation: May 2023
Career aspirations: Emergency medicine
Current hospital: O’Connor Hospital

St. George’s University medical student Carley Greco is taking in all the opportunities that the University has to offer.

A third-year student with aspirations to go into emergency medicine, Ms. Greco, who is originally from New York, is currently completing her core clinical rotations in California. She has so far finished three clerkships—internal medicine, surgery, and OB/GYN—and is currently completing her pediatrics rotation at O’Connor Hospital in San Jose.

SGU News spoke with Ms. Greco about her experience in clinicals so far and how it is helping her to solidify her chosen specialty leading up to residency applications for the 2023 NRMP Match.

SGU: You are not from California, yet you requested to be placed there for your core rotations, why is that?

Carley Greco: I was interested in completing rotations in California to see hospitals in different parts of the country and with different patient populations. I also wanted to see if I enjoyed living and working in California prior to residency applications to determine if I would want to apply to positions on the West Coast.

SGU: How would you describe your experience at O’Connor Hospital?

Carley Greco: The experience has been positive. The hospital does not have residents in every specialty, only in family medicine, which gives students a chance to work directly with the attending physicians and see their clinical decision making firsthand. Throughout each rotation we switch doctors every three to four weeks, so I’ve gotten to see a mix of the sub-specialties within each specialty.

For example, during my IM rotation I rotated through nephrology, pulmonary, and interventional cardiology, in addition to seeing patients on the hospitalist service. It was very interesting for me to see all the different paths available to those who go into internal medicine.

SGU: What has been your favorite rotation so far and why?

Carley Greco: I’d have to say my favorite rotation thus far would be surgery! I worked with cardiothoracic surgery, vascular surgery, and orthopedic surgery, and was able to scrub in on multiple procedures including a lung resection, hip replacements, shoulder replacements, knee replacements, ACL and meniscus repairs, and multiple revascularization procedures! My favorite experience was learning hands on how to whip stitch an ACL allograft.

SGU: What did it feel like that first time you scrubbed in for a surgery?

Carley Greco: The first surgery I scrubbed in for was a partial lung resection on a young man with a lung nodule. I was both extremely excited and extremely nervous. I made sure to eat a good breakfast and drink plenty of water the night before, so I was ready to go. It was the coolest experience to be a part of the surgical team, scrubbing at the same sink with the surgeon, holding retractors, suctioning, and aiming the laparoscope camera so the surgeon could see.

The surgery ended up being more complicated than expected, she ended up converting to open surgery rather than laparoscopic, and it took over six hours! I was so impressed by the surgeon and her ability to remain totally focused on the task at hand for the entire surgery.

SGU: How would you describe the faculty as it pertains to your training?

Carley Greco: It is nice to be able to see the various styles and strengths of each physician, and to benefit from each of their teaching styles. All of the doctors enjoy teaching and giving us hands-on experience where applicable.

SGU: What are your career aspirations/Match specialty hopes?

Carley Greco: I plan on applying to both emergency medicine/internal medicine combo programs, as well as purely emergency medicine. I think EM/IM would give me excellent insight to all sides of patient care from the ER through to admission and help me provide better care for my patients on either the EM or IM side. This would also give me a path to the ICU if I chose to go that route.

I know I would be equally as happy in an EM residency. I love the fast-paced environment and variety of medical knowledge needed in the emergency room and think I will end up in the ER either way!

SGU: What topics/issues are you passionate about in medicine?

Carley Greco: I did my masters in compassionate care, medical ethics, and medical humanities. Something that I found myself very invested in was end-of-life care. We typically think that these end-of-life decisions are only relevant in the sick and elderly, however tragedies can happen at any age and leave people unable to make decision for themselves. As a physician I hope to encourage and empower patients to educate themselves on measures they may or may not want taken when their quality of life is no longer what they wish it were.

SGU: What piece of advice do you have for med students just beginning their clerkships?

Carley Greco: Take a deep breath and relax! It’s okay if you feel like you know nothing and don’t know what you’re supposed to be doing. Everyone had to start somewhere, and the majority of doctors are very understanding that you are just starting out with clinical experience.

Listen to what you are being taught so you get it right next time.

Be on time, be flexible, and offer to help wherever and however you can, and they will see that you are eager to learn and be a part of the team.

 

 

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

 

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SGU grad secures ultrasound units to aid Grenada’s fight against breast cancer

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In the fight against breast cancer, access to resources is key; specifically, resources that contribute to early detection. Dr. Randy Becker, MD ’00, and current medical director at Crossroads Imaging Center of Advanced Radiology, in Ellicott City, MD, and clinical assistant professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, knows firsthand how important early detection is.

This is particularly the case on the island of Grenada, where during his visits through St. George’s University’s Physician Humanitarian Network (PHuN), he noticed a higher-than-normal percentage of patients with more advanced disease, oftentimes an indirect result of limited breast screening programs and access. To help alleviate this shortage, Dr. Becker worked with his imaging partner Hologic, to secure two portable breast ultrasound units. The donated imaging units will be used at Grenada General Hospital and Princess Alice Hospital.

“Improving access to women’s healthcare and screening services in Grenada is an important health initiative for the country. As a radiologist, I know that early detection often means better long-term outcomes for the country’s mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and aunts. That is why making this donation means so much to me,” said Dr. Becker.

These handheld units are particularly useful for patients with dense breast tissue, which makes it more difficult to detect suspicious abnormalities and is more commonly seen in Black women. The units, which come complete with the latest software, will aid breast surgeons and interventional radiologists in real-time management of complex breast lesions.

“We continue to work collaboratively with our alumni to strengthen the delivery of healthcare in Grenada,” said Brendon LaGrenade, vice provost of institutional advancement at SGU. “Through Dr. Becker’s unceasing efforts, he has secured this donation as we continue to work on acquiring a mammography machine. We do believe these machines can be a vital interim resource in our fight against breast cancer.”

Hologic’s multiyear partnership with the nonprofit organization, Black Women’s Health Imperative, prompted Dr. Becker to submit a grant proposal for a comprehensive women’s imaging service package last year.

“One of the goals of the initiative was to increase screening and access to African American women in the United States, often in underserved areas,” Dr. Becker said. “I also learned that one of the more lethal forms of breast cancer, Triple Negative (TNBC), is most prevalent in West Africa, which is the founder population of not just most African Americans, but also of almost all Grenadians. However, with equal and appropriate screening programs we can reduce race- or ethnicity-associated breast cancer disparities such as what we see with TNBC.”

He views this donation as only the first step in delivering better women’s imaging care and services for the patients in Grenada. Said Dr. Becker: “Our goal of securing a mammography unit with biopsy capabilities to complete a comprehensive radiology service for the entire Grenadian community is what we hope will be the next step.”

—Sarah Stoss

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