Starting medical school is a big milestone and St. George’s University School of Medicine is committed to making your transition as smooth, welcoming, and exciting as possible. Our orientation program is designed to help you settle in and feel at home from the moment you land in Grenada to start school in the Caribbean. View the reel and read on to learn what to expect during your first days at SGU.
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Steps to getting started
1. Meet an ambassador at the airport and get a taxi ride to campus
From the moment you arrive in Grenada, SGU ensures you receive a proper welcome!
An SGU ambassador will greet you at the airport to assist with transportation to campus. This meet-and-greet service helps reduce the stress of travel, especially after a long flight to the Caribbean. If you’re accompanied by family or friends, airport taxis are also readily available at the airport arrival door. Additional travel information is available for accepted students.
2. Meet ambassadors on campus
Once you’re on campus, orientation kicks off with helpful advice and friendly faces. SGU ambassadors are stationed at information tents to guide you through your first week, answer any questions, and point you in the right direction.
3. Check in and register
Before arriving, make sure your Self Service student account is clear of any holds as this is essential for completing registration. Upon arrival, head to the check-in location with all your required materials (pre-registration forms, ID, etc.).
Once verified, you’ll receive your SGU ID card and get information on where to collect your textbooks, officially kicking off your academic journey.
4. Pick up your free swag bag
What’s better than free stuff? All new students receive a swag bag that includes SGU-branded gear like a t-shirt and drawstring bag. Not only is this a fun welcome gift, but it’s also a great way to start feeling like part of the SGU community.
5. Pick up textbooks and supplies
If you’re a first-term medical, your required textbooks will be pre-ordered and ready for pickup during orientation week. No need to buy them in advance!
The library has all recommended texts for the Basic Sciences courses. In addition, the University bookstore sells texts required and recommended by the faculty. Bring any supplementary texts, such as board review books, of your own.
6. Obtain your SGU mailing address
Establishing your SGU mailing address is essential for staying connected and receiving important documents and packages throughout your time at the university. You’ll be able to send and receive mail through the mailroom, which also sells postage stamps and accepts outgoing letters. Also be sure you have set up your SGU email account.
7. Pick up your dorm key
If you’re living on campus, head to Key Distribution in lower Charter Hall. Here, you’ll confirm your room assignment and receive your key. The distribution office is open from morning until the last student flight arrives, ensuring you have access to your housing as soon as you land.
8. Get familiar with the SGU bus system
SGU’s campus is large and bustling, and the bus system helps you navigate it easily. Watch the tutorial on how to use the bus system, guided by an SGU student. Check out the SGU website for more information about getting around campus and throughout the island
9. Meet your new friends and classmates
One of the most exciting parts of orientation is connecting with fellow students who are just as eager and motivated as you. Whether it’s during icebreakers, walking tours, or shared meals, these early interactions often spark friendships that last throughout your time at SGU and beyond.
10. Stop by orientation events and immerse yourself in Grenadian culture
Orientation is a perfect time to get acclimated to your physical surroundings and to meet other new students, upperclassmen, faculty, and staff. It is a time for making new friends and familiarizing yourself with all of the great opportunities that await you at SGU.
11. Stop by the Student Org Fair and get involved
SGU boasts over 80 student organizations covering everything from academics, community service, career specialties, culture, religion, social, and more. At the Student Organization Fair, you’ll have the chance to explore these opportunities and find the groups that match your passions.
Getting involved is one of the best ways to enrich your student experience and connect with like-minded peers. See the Student Org Fair in action!
12. Have a great first term!
With all the essentials taken care of and a supportive community around you, you’re ready to dive into your studies and make the most of your SGU experience. Remember to take care of yourself, seek help when needed, and embrace the journey ahead. Here’s to a successful and unforgettable first term!
Dreaming about your first day of med school?
We hope you enjoyed this helpful glimpse into what starting your med school journey at SGU looks like.
If you’re considering a future in medicine, we invite you to learn more about SGU School of Medicine and explore our blog series, Journey to Become an MD.
