Jacobus Schutte, MD

The background and upbringing of St. George’s University alum Jacobus Schutte, MD ’23, have been deeply rooted in South Africa where he grew up surrounded by the vibrant culture and landscapes of the country. He was particularly drawn to sports, especially rugby and golf, and at various points, he held aspirations of becoming a professional in those fields.

However, a pivotal event during a holiday trip in South Africa when he was 12 years old altered the course of his goals. Witnessing a tragic accident during that trip profoundly impacted him. It wasn’t just the event itself, but also the response of his father, who is a doctor, that left an indelible mark on his young mind. His father’s ability to remain calm, his unwavering knowledge, and his capacity to make critical decisions in the face of crisis were awe-inspiring, according to Dr. Schutte, who recently graduated from SGU.

In the aftermath of that event, Dr. Schutte’s focus shifted entirely towards medicine. The desire to be able to help people in their most vulnerable moments, like his father did, became his driving force. It was a shift from a dream of sports glory to a more profound calling to serve humanity through the field of medicine. That experience shaped his aspirations and ultimately led him on the path to pursuing a career in medicine.

This summer, Dr. Schutte will begin a surgery residency at WellSpan Health/York Hospital Program. He shared his SGU experience and advice for aspiring physicians.

SGU: Describe what it felt like when you matched for residency.

Dr. Schutte: Matching for residency was an exhilarating and humbling experience, the culmination of years of hard work. Knowing I’d have the chance to train in surgery was fulfilling. Sharing the moment with my fiancé, whom I met in medical school and also matched at the same hospital, added immense joy and significance to the occasion. It was a realization of achieving personal goals and embracing the journey ahead together.

SGU: What drew you to your chosen field of specialty? How do you envision making an impact in this area?

Dr.  Schutte: My fascination with the intricacies of the human body and the art of healing drew me towards a lifelong aspiration to become a surgeon. From a young age, I would accompany my father’s colleagues, who are orthopedic and general surgeons, to the operating room, where I witnessed firsthand their dedication, skill, and compassion. These experiences solidified my desire to pursue a career in surgery. Witnessing the remarkable surgeons in action further fueled my passion for the field.

I envision making an impact by providing expert surgical care to patients, ensuring their well-being and recovery. Moreover, I am committed to contributing to advancements in surgical techniques and patient outcomes, striving to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of surgery.

SGU: How do you balance work and your personal life?

Dr. Schutte: Balancing work and personal life in the medical field is undoubtedly challenging. My advice to students is to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and seek support when needed. Cultivating hobbies, maintaining relationships outside of work, and practicing mindfulness are essential for maintaining a healthy mental well-being.

SGU: What are your ultimate career aspirations within the field of medicine?

Dr. Schutte: My long-term career aspirations within the field of medicine include becoming a leader in my specialty, conducting research to advance surgical knowledge, and advocating for improved healthcare access and quality for underserved populations. Additionally, my experiences volunteering in South Africa’s rural areas have inspired me to one day establish a non-governmental organization (NGO) aimed at providing essential surgeries to underserved communities. Through this initiative, I hope to address the healthcare disparities and ensure that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, has access to the surgical care they need.

SGU: How did SGU contribute to your academic success and prepare you for the USMLE exams?

Dr. Schutte: Self-directed study and personal motivation were pivotal in mastering the material and achieving success in the exams. While SGU provided substantial support –including a rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and robust support services such as study materials, review courses, and practice exams—yet the ultimate responsibility for academic success lies with the individual. It’s crucial to recognize that self-discipline and personal drive are essential components of mastering the material and excelling in the USMLE exams.

SGU: What was the highlight of your experience living in Grenada during your medical education?

Dr. Schutte: Living in Grenada was an enriching experience filled with memorable moments. Among my favorites were the catamaran trips after exams, the relaxing beach hangouts with friends, and the thrilling scuba diving adventures. These activities provided much-needed relaxation and created unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Grenada’s stunning Caribbean surroundings. Additionally, I cherished the opportunity during my medical education to immerse myself in a vibrant multicultural community. Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds, exploring the island’s natural beauty, and participating in community outreach initiatives all contributed to enriching my educational experience and broadening my perspective.

SGU: What advice would you offer to aspiring medical students considering a similar path?

Dr. Schutte: SGU offered me a clear path to achieving my dream of becoming a doctor. Stay resilient, seize opportunities for growth, and remain focused on the impact you can make as a future healthcare professional.

SGU: How did SGU contribute to your success?

Dr. Schutte: SGU has been instrumental in enabling my wife and I to practice medicine in various countries such as Grenada, the US, UK, and South Africa. While relocating presents challenges, we’re grateful that SGU’s accreditation is recognized in multiple countries, which allows us to pursue opportunities in a bunch of different countries. Only time will tell where we end up, but for now, we’re focused on starting residency and will factor in our future work aspirations when the time comes.

Find out if St. George’s University is right for you.