St. George’s University

  • Select A School
  • Login to Portal
  • School of Medicine

    School of Veterinary Medicine

    School of Arts & Sciences

    School of Graduate Studies

    School of Medicine

    School of Veterinary Medicine

    School of Arts & Sciences

    School of Graduate Studies

    Preparing for your first semester

    SGU Student studying

    Journey to Becoming an MD: Step 3

  • Journey to become an MD: Steps to becoming a doctor
  • If you are in the position of gearing up to attend medical school, then a huge congratulations to you! In the journey to MD, medical school is an exciting steppingstone where you will truly delve headfirst into all things health and medicine.

    Embarking on this new stage, of course, means having to adjust to a new routine. Starting medical school can be daunting, but SGU seeks to set students up for success with resources like small-group learning, exceptional academic support services, a close-knit community, and hands-on training. Here are some blogs to help you get a sense of the med student experience:

    We also have some tips from SGU alumni for incoming med students to ensure a smooth transition into your new life in med school.

    Create a routine conducive to learning

    During college or high school, meeting deadlines may have been a light lift for some students. Others may have had success on exams or projects despite some serious procrastination. Be sure to enter med school with a different mindset.

    Mastering an extensive curriculum centered around one of the most complex organisms on the planet, the human body, is doable. But the rigor of an MD program requires a certain level of discipline and effective time-management to absorb the necessary content while still having time for self-care, chores, and a social life. The balance of the responsibilities may be precarious, but finding your groove in your schedule is crucial to preventing burnout and maximizing study time.

    Hear from SGU grads who reflected on their early days as a med student: 10 things I wish I knew before becoming a medical student.

    Pick up on new study techniques

    Speaking of study time, learning new material may require new methods of studying. Here are just a few former med student-approved tips for making the most out of your study sessions:

    1. Review that again…and again. Repetition is a core element to many study strategies. Exposing yourself to material repeatedly—and also throwing in some mnemonics—can help it stick better in your mind (and prevent you blanking on a test).
    2. Put that pen to paper. In our digital world, more modern technology has replaced pen and paper for many situations, but don’t rule it out for studying just yet! Many students studying medicine and beyond swear by the simple action of taking handwritten notes.
    3. Study group, assemble! If collaboration is your jam, then look into starting or joining a study group. Study groups are a great way to learn from and teach your peers. SGU provides study spaces to accommodate both the individual studier and groups.

    For more tips be sure to check out Physician tips on how to study in medical school.

    Embrace this new chapter with new friends and new experiences

    Establishing a support system through friends and faculty in your new environment is crucial. Find clubs, sports, or other student organizations to keep you involved and to provide an outlet outside of school.

    Also, be sure to take advantage of unique opportunities offered in your new surroundings. SGU’s campus is situated on the idyllic Caribbean island of Grenada, which gives students some particularly noteworthy experiences. SGU students in their first two years of med school can enjoy hikes near waterfalls, picturesque beaches, and vibrant Grenadian culture and customs.

    Learn more about how SGU students keep busy outside of class:

    Don’t be afraid to ask for help

    A medical school with a strong network of resources for students will truly allow students to thrive. The journey to MD is not always easy while in med school.

    SGU cares about student well-being. That’s why we have Student Support Services to provide students with resources like mental health sessions and health care services.

    There are resources for students needing academic support as well—all you have to do is ask! Students can get connected with specialized coaching, language services, faculty-led small groups, and more.

    For a fuller picture of the resources offered to SGU students, we outlined some of the many student supports services in: 10 med student support services you didn’t know SGU offered.

    Do you see medical school in your future?

    Have you been thinking about applying to medical school but have more questions? SGU offers information sessions to provide insights on medical school and the MD program at SGU.

    You will hear from SGU alumni and admissions officers about academics, campus life, the admission process, and scholarship opportunities. Learn about the School of Medicine and our tailored student support services.

    Related Articles

    From Dr.eam To Doctor

    Learn more about our MD program and tracks

    Every aspect of our MD program and tracks are intentionally designed to support you on your path to becoming a physician.

    Flexible Start Dates: Choose from multiple entry terms in August, January, or April to begin your medical education at your convenience.

    Program and Track Highlights

    • Global Recognition: SGU’s School of Medicine has been continuously accredited for decades, enabling our students to be eligible to practice in the US.
    • Clinical Training: 85+ hospitals and health systems in the US, UK, and Canada offer clinical and ambulatory training and support.
    • Legacy of Excellence: Join the network of over 23K+ graduates* who have impacted healthcare worldwide.
    SGU Graduates Collage

    Connect With Us.

    • Learn more about our MD program and tracks
    • Receive priority invitations to our prospective student events


























    April term is for School of Medicine Only.






    At SGU we respect your privacy and will never sell your information to a third party. I understand and agree, that SGU may show me additional educational opportunities available at SGU, programs and services relevant to my request for information. I acknowledge that my data will be collected and shared with selected SGU affiliated partners to improve educational services, marketing, and analytics. You may withdraw consent at any time. These details are also included in our Privacy Policy.
    SGU would like to communicate with you via text at the phone number provided. Please note: Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP at any time to opt-out. Reply HELP for help. View our Privacy Policy . Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.
    By clicking SUBMIT, I understand and agree that St George's University (SGU) will use my personal data for the purpose of processing my request for information. Please see our Privacy Policy for further details.


    We will be in touch soon, but if you have questions now, email us at admissions@sgu.edu