For First Black Graduate, SGU Was “Opportunity Of A Lifetime”

/in , , /by

SGU News caught up with John Washington, MD ’81, who with his charter class colleagues were the first to enter medicine as St. George’s University graduates. Dr. Washington has spent the last 35 years working as an emergency medicine physician in Macon, GA, and he looks back fondly on where his journey began.

St. George’s University: How did you end up choosing SGU?

John Washington: Going to SGU was the opportunity of a lifetime for me. We’re talking about a time when black individuals didn’t really have that kind of opportunity in medicine. For us, we had to go to Howard or Meharry, which is the oldest black medical school in the nation. Some schools weren’t letting black medical students in.

A friend of mine at one school told me some stories about how he was treated—and of the things that went on. It’s amazing he made it through. He isn’t alone either. When I compared my time in Grenada to the experience that he and others had elsewhere, it was completely different. SGU was a great fit for me.

SGU: How would you describe the camaraderie amongst the charter class?

Dr. Washington: The most important thing I remember is that everybody stuck together. It was a tight-knit group, and everybody helped each other out in any way they could. We studied hard, and it was easy to see who was committed to making it through and building a legacy for the school. Looking back at it now, we were able to lay the groundwork for what was then this completely new and unique school.

SGU: What’s it like for you looking back on the foundation that you and your classmates built?

Dr. Washington: It’s just been marvelous. I believe that SGU is the preeminent foreign medical school in the world, in terms of the training it provides and the opportunity it gives students to practice in the US. Graduates from SGU are everywhere now, and they’re doing well. I’m proud to have been part of the first class and to have helped physicians who followed in our footsteps.

– Brett Mauser

Learn more about our commitment to diversity

SAS Grad Commits Life To Serving Community As Grenada Police Commissioner

/in , /by

Edvin Martin, BSc ’08, the current commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF)  came from humble beginnings. He grew up in a Grenadian household of seven kids, inspired by his hard-working mother and his father,  a police constable who was the motivating factor for his son joining the RGPF. Mr. Martin attributes his humility and simplicity to this family construct, and one he is very proud of today.

Well into his thirties, he made the decision to pursue a degree program at SGU. He recalls one of his scares at the beginning was his conscious weakness in his math abilities. In an interview with SGU News, the recently appointed commissioner talks about the way he conquered his fear of math, how SGU aided in his career development, and being able to achieve success at any stage in life.

St. George’s University: What are your responsibilities as commissioner of the RGPF?

Commissioner Edvin Martin: As Commissioner of Police, my responsibilities consist of a complete superintendence command and control of the entire RGPF apparatus, and in so doing I am supported by deputy commissioners and assistant commissioners of police.

SGU: Can you describe your journey with the RGPF and specifically your career mobility?

Commissioner Martin: In addition to my parental upbringing and guidance, my journey with the RGPF has been very interesting, and certainly one I attribute almost everything to. I will remain eternally grateful for the opportunities afforded to me. From the early days of recruitment, I received the baton of honor, and from then on, I received several successive promotions, where I was subsequently promoted to assistant commissioner of police, deputy and ultimately to the rank of commissioner.

SGU: What do you consider to be the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Commissioner Martin: Certainly it is in service to people. I’ll give you an example. When I launched the police farm watch scheme, a farmer came to me when he noticed that a lot of his yams had gone missing. I understood this was his livelihood and knew we had to help. He was so elated when we found the individuals stealing and was able to get a conviction in court. At the end of the day, if what I do results in elevation and recognition for me, then so be it, but it has never been the driving force. The greatest satisfaction is how I can make people’s lives better and that continues to be my motivation onto this day.

SGU: How have your studies at SGU helped with your career development?

Commissioner Martin: SGU provided the academic foundation that allowed my career to propel in many ways. Predominantly, I didn’t enter with the strongest number of subjects, but my experience and several other courses, including an accelerated promotion course and studies at the US-based Federal Bureau of Investigation Academy, aided as well. Having completed my SGU degree and graduating with honors (magna cum laude), that served me well in getting accepted into UK universities and made it easy in the ultimate decision for my being granted a Chevening scholarship award.

SGU: Were there any services offered at SGU that you would have taken advantage of during your time there?

Commissioner Martin: I used the Department of Educational Services to assist with the issue of building my math capability. I had to start at the foundation level because math was not one of the O-level subjects I had. I received an A in math for critical thinking and a B in statistics, so I pat myself on the back for doing so. You can do well once you invest the time in the extra support mechanisms available to help you succeed.

SGU: What would you say to someone who wants to advance their career later in life?

Commissioner Martin: You can start to achieve success at any stage in life. If you weren’t the best student, it is not the end. I know several persons who did not excel in their earlier years and today these persons have degrees. The opportunities are there. By and large, once you are disciplined, motivated, and believe in yourself, you can aim for the sky and certainly do well.

SGU: How do you respond to comments about you being one of the most eloquent speakers in Grenada?

Commissioner Martin: I am absolutely flattered by the statement but, quite frankly, I think differently. I am humbled by the comment and I will interpret that to mean that when I do speak people understand, digest, and find clarity, and I will use that as a motivating statement.

SGU: What advice would you give to someone thinking of SGU?

Commissioner Martin:  I would wholeheartedly recommend SGU. In fact, my daughter is in her last semester pursuing a nursing degree, and it is testimony of my support and confidence in the school. I have great faith in the institution, and the fact that I was able to use my graduation certification from SGU to leverage further academic education in the UK further justifies that. The University is also very accessible and affordable to Grenadians, as it offers a number of scholarship opportunities.  I highly recommend it.

 

– Tornia Charles

How Research Will Aid Vet Students in their Careers: Faculty Feature on Dr. Sonia Cheetham-Brow

/in , , /by

Dr. Sonia Cheetham-Brow, SVM Associate Dean of Research

Dr. Sonia Cheetham-Brow, the School of Veterinary Medicine’s associate dean of research and a professor in the Department of Pathobiology, has dedicated her life to studying animal viruses and conducting veterinary research. Her work has appeared in several prestigious publications, including the British Journal of Cancer and the Journal of Virology.

As associate dean of research, Dr. Cheetham-Brow provides leadership on SVM’s development of research studies while also adding her expertise in research collaborations with the Schools of Medicine and Arts and Sciences, as well as global research efforts. She also helps to create and develop research-related programs and courses, ensures that all SVM research adheres to SGU’s standards and policies, helps new faculty find internal and external research opportunities, and serves on the Small Grant Research Initiative (SGRI) grant and policy committee. She currently teaches virology to Term 3 students as well as a selective in scientific article interpretation and electives in research.

In her discussion with SGU News, she talks about why research is important for veterinary students, how the study of veterinary virology applies to the current pandemic situation, and offers insight into how students can get involved in research studies at SGU.

St. George’s University: Why is understanding the role of research in veterinary medicine an important aspect for students to learn?

Dr. Cheetham-Brow: Veterinary medicine is based in science. Scientific findings occur through research. In order to advance in veterinary medicine, exposure to evidence-based veterinary medicine and research must be a critical part of the students’ curriculum. If students can appreciate the scientific method, they will be ready to differentiate amongst real and fake scientific advancements.

SGU: How does the study of veterinary virology apply to the current pandemic situation?

Cheetham-Brow: At SGU, SVM students are presented with virology based on the “One Health” disciplinary approach. The concept emphasizes not just veterinary viral diseases and current zoonotic viruses but also identifies potential viral families that can jump species, such as SARS Cov2, which was identified as a cause of COVID-19.

What students learn about virus transmission and intervention strategies in the absence of vaccines (which occurs in many instances) can be immediately translated to the current situation. The aim is to have our graduates ready to fight existing viral threats but also prepare them to apply what they know to new viruses that may come in the future.

SGU: What research are you currently involved in?

Cheetham-Brow: My main focus in research are viruses of zoonotic importance in bats and mosquitoes but I also collaborate with other faculty working on viruses in sea turtles, monkeys, and domestic animals.

SGU: How has your travels/background prepared you to teach the next generation of veterinarians?

Cheetham-Brow: My Doctor of Veterinary Medicine training began in Argentina and then I gained further expertise as a visiting scholar at Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO).  I also completed my PhD at Ohio State University in the USA and my Postdoc at the University of British Columbia in Canada. Through my research training, I acquired a broad background of skills, techniques, hypothesis-based research design and data analysis. I also gained experience by working in research laboratories in both developed and developing countries, both of which have proven of invaluable to my career development.

SGU: How can students get involved in research studies while at SGU?

Cheetham-Brow: In addition to the information found on the SVM SGU website, I present all the different options to Term 1 students as part of their Evidence-Based Veterinary Medicine course. This includes introducing the faculty coordinating each program such as the IVSP (research summer program) VSRI (veterinary student research investigator) etc. Additionally, interested students can reach out and enquire about possibilities by contacting me via email and telephone number (474) 444 4175 ext. 3805.

SGU: What advice would you give to students currently pursuing veterinary medicine?

Cheetham-Brow: Everything we know and do in veterinary medicine is based on the research from people before us. Moving forward will depend on research by us. Even if students are certain that they want to be clinicians, there are types of research that they can participate in, such as clinical research. Also, case studies are of interest so if they find themselves with a new or unusual case, they should share it in the form of a case report which once published will be available to others around the globe.

 

 

– Tornia Charles

 

 

Impact of Veterinarians Underscored in Spring 2021 Virtual White Coat Ceremony

/in , , /by

With the safety of its students, their families, and the Grenadian community as its highest priority, St. George’s University held its first-ever virtual White Coat Ceremony last week—formally welcoming aspiring veterinarians from its August 2020 and January 2021 incoming classes to the veterinary medical profession.

The future veterinarians are on the path to join over 1,900 other graduates of SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine. The SVM also maintains partnerships with more than 30 universities and clinical facilities in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, and Australia, where fourth-year students spend a year of clinical training at an affiliated veterinary school.

One alumna—Carolina Medina, DVM ’05, a certified veterinary pain practitioner—served as the day’s master of ceremonies. In her address, she counseled the veterinarians-in-training that becoming a DVM was going to be harder than they expected, but the harder they worked, the greater they would feel when they achieved it.

 

Watch August 2020 Ceremony

“Stay focused, seek help when you need it, and always remember why you started on this journey in the first place,” said Dr. Medina. “Working with animals is rewarding and fulfilling, and as a veterinarian you will have the ability to make an impact on the lives of animals and people, as well as service your community.”

St. George’s University President Dr. G. Richard Olds described last year’s coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak as a prime example of the interconnectivity of human and animal medicine. According to Dr. Olds, the pandemic will take the combined efforts of both human and veterinary medicine to combat, and it has also impacted the symbolism of the white coat.

“Patients and other individuals have often thought well of those in the health professions,” stated Dr. Olds. “However, I believe those in the health profession today have achieved a new status because of the personal risks that those individuals on the frontlines have exposed themselves to while serving those affected by the virus. They have gained a new status—these health professionals have attained ‘hero’ status more so now than ever before.”

Other speakers at the event included the chancellor of St. George’s University, Dr. Charles R. Modica, Provost Glen Jacobs, Dr. Neil C. Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, and keynote speaker Dr. John Howe, the immediate past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, who served in the role of president for 2019-2020. Dr. Howe congratulated the future vets on their success so far, recognizing how hard they’ve worked and knowing the new challenges they will now face.

Watch January 2021 Ceremony

“What will determine your relative success will be your ability to build relationships with your clients,” advised Dr. Howe. “Whatever your career path, it’s all about relationships. And perhaps most of all it’s about listening. As the saying goes… ’nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.’”

Established in 1999, the School of Veterinary Medicine continues to add to its legacy of graduating top-notch veterinarians into the global healthcare system with its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program recently receiving full accreditation from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). As a result, St. George’s University is now one of the few veterinary schools in the world to be accredited by both the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education (AVMA COE) in the United States and Canada, as well as the RCVS in the UK.

– Ray-Donna Peters

From Politics to Academia

/in , , , , /by

When Dr. Damian Greaves changed course in his career, switching from politics to academic, he had always intended to return. But more than 15 years into his time as an educator at St. George’s University, he has reveled in the opportunity to pass on his knowledge to future leaders in Grenada and throughout the Caribbean. 

“When I teach, I am on top of the world because it is not just a job, it is a vocation—to inspire and mold minds,” said Dr. Greaves, a professor in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences. 

He came to St. George’s University in 2006 after spending five years as the Minister of Health in St. Lucia, first serving as a part-time lecturer while working on a Master of Public Health (MPH) from SGU, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Walden University.  

“Leveraging on various experiences gives a broader view on what is happening, and therefore translates to a more panoramic and rigorous analysis of matters that may come to my attention,” said Dr. Greaves. “It also gives you a more global prospective.”

Roles Run the Gamut

Even with all of his roles at SGU, he traveled to St. Lucia monthly to attend parliamentary sessions. All told, the former Minister served 15 years in politics, including three as senator, for which he led the opposition in the House. Dr. Greaves was also Minister for Culture and Community Development. His passion for culture led him to write songs, own a Carnival band, and participate in calypso competitions.  

Nevertheless, Dr. Greaves remained at SGU as an instructor, teaching Social Sciences and Medicine to premedical and preveterinary students, as well as sociology courses such as Race, Class and Gender; Caribbean Social Structure; Caribbean Government and Politics; and Introduction to Political Science. 

“When you are teaching, you have to be well read. One of your toolkits is to continue to research and read, particularly in this ever-evolving technical age.” Dr. Greaves said. “If you’re a sociologist and you don’t have a working knowledge of economics, political science, other areas of social sciences and even outside of those, your analysis will be the limited because you must engage other subject matters that impact what you’re interrogating.” 

He also leads a very active campus life, serving as president of the School of Arts and Sciences Senate as well as the University Senate. He is also a member of various committees such as the Graduate and Undergraduate Committees, Accreditation Committee, and SGU IRB; a body with a mandate to review the content of research studies. 

Outside of SGU, Dr. Greaves is the director of the Healthy Caribbean Coalition, sits on the National Advisory Board for National Health Insurance, and is chair of the Grenada National Commission on Non-Communicable Diseases, a position he has held since 2017. Dr. Greaves is also writing his first book, which focuses on health management in the Caribbean.   

– Tornia Charles

SAS Spotlight: Adel Hagley Ollivierre 

/in , , /by

When Adel Hagley Ollivierre boiled down her career aspirations, two necessities became clear to her—to be in a position that she enjoys while also making a difference in the lives of others. As the current assistant administrator for the Office of the Dean at St. George’s University’s School of Arts and Sciences, she feels she has accomplished just that. 

A Master of Business Administration helped equip her with all the tools for success in that role. The 2018 SGU alumna explained why pursuing an MBA was one of the best career decisions she made, and why she would recommend it to entrepreneurs. 

St. George’s University: Why did you choose to pursue an MBA at SGU? 

Adel Hagley Ollivierre: I envisioned my decision to pursue an MBA would allow me to enhance my knowledge and hone critical competencies across several managerial disciplines, which I felt would create opportunities for career advancement. It was also ideal because of its online mode of delivery, as I could complete my program while at the same time balancing family life and a full-time job. 

SGU: How has this MBA made a difference in your life? 

Hagley Ollivierre: It has brought immediate value to me as an individual. It has proved useful in giving me the confidence to make a major career change. I often felt that I had greater potential and could be more impactful in my career. Acquiring new knowledge tends to change your perspective and initiate other interests. Additionally, it served as an avenue that fostered enduring friendships with colleagues of my graduating class and the exemplary faculty and staff of our program, who provided the requisite knowledge and guidance. 

SGU: You previously worked in the Grenada Public Service. Why did you make such a major career change? 

Hagley Ollivierre: The decision to transition from the public sector to the private sector was a fairly easy one. My time with the Grenada Public Service allowed me to work with brilliant colleagues and develop the skill set and competencies that today serve as the foundation for future growth and development. Naturally, I felt I was at a stage in my career where I wanted to make a difference and simply enjoy what I did for a living. 

Joining the team in the Office of the Dean was the answer to my prayers. I finally had the opportunity to apply my theoretical knowledge and years of experience to a real-life situation. Here, my productive capabilities are demonstrated. I feel a sense of accomplishment as I execute my duties and navigate this dynamic and often unpredictable environment. 

I am fortunate to have a terrific manager who appreciates my contributions and provides the necessary support and guidance. I enjoy going to work and collaborating with our competent faculty and staff. It gives me a great sense of pride knowing that our collective efforts contribute to the success of our students and organization. 

SGU: Going back to your time as a student, how would you describe campus life for an MBA student? 

Hagley Ollivierre: My on-campus experiences generally involved attending residencies, or studying at the library or study spaces on weekends. St. George’s University is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Grenada—it’s simply the gold standard in my book. I feel extremely fortunate to have experienced its scenic ocean view, the refreshing environment, and the well equipped and comfortable facilities. 

SGU: Would you recommend SGU’s MBA program to entrepreneurs? 

Hagley Ollivierre: The MBA-IB program is designed with an international perspective and is especially beneficial in terms of providing very practical case analyses. It culminates with the defense of a business-related capstone project. This component I believe is particularly useful for aspiring entrepreneurs, as it helps develop appropriate business acumen and provides practical experience. I would highly recommend it. 

– Tornia Charles

SGU Alum Featured in New York Times and US News & Health Report

/in , , /by

Dr. Andrew Carroll, MD ’96, a family physician and primary care doctor in Chandler, AZ, was recently featured in both the New York Times and US News & Health Report, offering his perspective on COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as the intricacies of life as a family medicine physician.

In the Times article, “Doctors’ offices contend with a deluge of requests for the vaccine,” Dr. Carroll, who was recently re-elected to the board of directors for the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) for 2020-21, said patients who were hesitant about receiving the vaccine may feel more comfortable if it was given by their primary care physician.

“Many patients are very reluctant to get a vaccine that doesn’t have a proven track record,” said. “They’d rather get the vaccine from somebody they can call right afterwards if they’re having problems.”

 

Read the full New York Times article

 

In “How to Become a Family Medicine Physician” by US News & Health Report, Dr. Carroll described what it’s like to be a family medicine physician.

“Family medicine is the only singular medical specialty which is tasked with taking care of all people at all ages,” said Dr. Carroll. “We are, in a lot of ways, the Swiss Army knife of all specialties.”

 

Read the full USNews article

 

Dr. Carroll is passionate about family medicine. SGU News profiled Dr. Carroll following his election onto the AAFP board in 2019.

“The grassroots family physician hasn’t been heard loud enough,” Dr. Carroll said at the time. “I want to be that loud voice.”

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

3 SVM Grads Doing Mobile Vet Medicine

/in , , /by

The COVID-19 pandemic has put mobile veterinary clinics in the spotlight. Veterinarians who are practicing in this fashion are busier than ever as plenty of new pet owners take the plunge in adopting a companion animal to care for while they stay at home. In the pandemic environment, pet owners, especially those who are immuno-compromised, are also reluctant to leave the house to take their pets to more traditional clinics for care. The convenience that offering these services is appealing to many clients.

This niche area of veterinary medicine offers many benefits to the veterinarian as well, including:

  • less stressed animals for more precise examinations;
  • a more accurate picture of the pet’s home environment;
  • flexibility for the vet, including the ability to make your own schedule and control the type of appointments accepted; and
  • more access and more time spent with clients to foster doctor-client relationships.

So, what is it like to work as a mobile veterinarian? SGU News spoke with three St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine graduates to learn about their experiences doing this type of medicine. Even with the extra precautions they say they take to protect themselves from COVID—these vets are loving every minute of it.

Micah Woods, DVM ’12
Ooltewah Veterinary Hospital
Chattanooga, TN

Micah Woods, DVM ’12, and his wife, Karla, opened their own veterinary hospital in October 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic sped up their plans to eventually offer ambulatory services to their community. Instead, they now initiate house calls with a fully functional ambulance where clients can stay safely in their homes and their pets are returned to them after their procedures. Ooltewah Veterinary Hospital is one of the only veterinary facilities in the region that also serves a variety of exotic animals ranging from pocket pets and reptiles to birds and zoological animals.

“By being mobile, our facility has unlimited access to the community to serve their needs however it is required,” Dr. Woods said. “This also enables us to reach those who otherwise might not have chosen our group to provide their care.

Through a fully functional ambulance, Dr. Woods and his team are able to offer wellness/vaccination visits, sick animal visits, in-home euthanasia, medical therapies for ill animals and medication dispensing as needed. Additionally, the team has the capability to perform general anesthesia for minor surgical procedures as well as basic bloodwork and laboratory diagnostics. Dr. Woods and his team at Ooltewah Veterinary Hospital were recently named “Best of the Best” veterinarian in Chattanooga.

“As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, the focus for all veterinarians should be on service and how they can differentiate themselves from their competition—how they can best reach current and future clients, meet their needs, and exceed their expectations. As more and more people move to working remotely, mobile veterinary practices will become more and more common,” Dr. Woods said.

Kim Springman, DVM ’10
Hometown Veterinary Clinic
Peoria, IL

A typical trip to the vet can be stressful for both pet owners and their beloved animals. Kim Springman, DVM ’10, owner of Hometown Veterinary Clinic, addresses those concerns with her mobile operation.

With the ability to examine, diagnose, and treat at client’s doorsteps, “mobile veterinary care eliminates the need for car rides with anxious pets, so we get a more accurate examination,” Dr. Springman said. “It also eliminates the clients from having to leave home. Many of our clients are elderly with compromised immune systems. Having veterinary care at their doorstep allows their pets to get the care they need.”

For Dr. Springman, having a mobile practice allows flexibility and get a complete picture of the pet’s home environment, which allows better care for the animals.

“I feel like every day is an adventure. I love seeing the differences in the way people live,” she said.

Dr. Springman’s bet on mobile medicine is paying off. Earlier this year, she added a second mobile vet truck and recently purchased a third truck to be used for mobile grooming. Furthermore, a local newspaper awarded Hometown Veterinary Clinic as her community’s pick for best veterinary clinic for the last three consecutive years.

“We are busier than ever as our clientele has grown to capacity,” she said. Mobile veterinary medicine is “the future of veterinary medicine. With the advent of online ordering, grocery delivery, and restaurant curbside pickup, people want a more personalized, convenient service.”

Tamara Hipp, DVM ’12
Twilight Meadows Mobile Veterinary Services
Raleigh, NC

Dr. Tamara Hipp, DVM ’12, originally started her mobile business, Twilight Meadows Mobile Veterinary Services, to perform end-of-life services for cats and dogs in their homes. However, she enjoyed doing home visits so much she expanded her offerings to include preventative care and minor illness needs, treating the most commonly seen non-emergency illnesses, including ear infections, skin issues, minor injuries, and urinary tract infections, for example.

Being able to make her own schedule and control the type of appointments she sees are her top two reasons for being a mobile vet; Dr. Hipp works out of her vehicle and often brings her pup, Maiya, along for the ride. But she also loves spending more time with her clients and their pets to build relationships.

“I find that the average wellness takes me about 30 to 45 minutes, but I am able to involve clients in their pet’s care and show them things like tartar and ear infections,” she said. “Clients appreciate being actively involved in their pet’s care and it is easier to get compliance.”

Her time is especially busy right now as more and more people become pet owners by adopting puppies and kittens during the pandemic. “In general, I think people are just becoming more aware of it as a service,” Dr. Hipp said, who also serves as a relief veterinarian for area hospitals. Offering mobile veterinary services “has given people an avenue to seek care for their pets if they didn’t want to get out.”

While she is taking extra precautions when she sees patients due to COVID, “as a whole, I feel a lot more connected to my clients. It’s not just a face; I remember people and what their job is, maybe a hobby, because you have time to talk about those things. That connection is important for trust,” Dr. Hipp said.

 

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

 

9 Questions with MD Student Ololade Akinfemiwa

/in , , /by

Ololade Akinfemiwa

Ololade Akinfemiwa, MD ’21 (expected), is enjoying her challenging internal medicine rotation as a fourth-year student at a clinic affiliated with Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center.

Originally from Toronto, Canada, she chose St. George’s University because, after speaking with a number of graduates practicing in the US and Canada in various specialties—all encouraged her to apply. “I am glad I did,” she said.

Hoping to inspire more black women to go into medicine, Miss Akinfemiwa is active within the Student National Medical Association (SNMA), serving as vice chair of the national chapter’s Community Service Committee. SNMA is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students by addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of “clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians.”

Get to know Miss Akinfemiwa below.

1. What are you learning right now in your internal medicine rotation?

Ololade Akinfemiwa: I am currently on an outpatient rotation and I am learning the importance of effective communication of health-related information. It makes a huge difference when patients have a good understanding of their medical conditions and how to manage them.

2. What is the most surprising or exciting lesson/case learned while in clinical rotations?

Akinfemiwa: I saw a patient with Lyme disease with the classic rash that looks like a bull’s eye. I had so many questions about it and was excited to actually see it in person.

3. Do you plan to go into primary care or specialize?

Akinfemiwa: I plan on going into emergency medicine and I have an interest in global health.

4. Favorite rotation/elective so far?

Akinfemiwa: Emergency medicine, of course!

5. What do you miss most about Grenada?

Akinfemiwa: I miss the warm weather, beaches, and Umbrellas Beach Bar.

6. What has been the most challenging part of clinicals?

Akinfemiwa: Right now, the most challenging part of clinicals has been seeing the devastating effects of COVID firsthand.

7. What has stood out to you most about the role of physicians during this pandemic and how has it affected the type of doctor you aspire to be?

Akinfemiwa: This pandemic has highlighted the need for more doctors and revealed the vulnerabilities in the healthcare system. Knowing that things could have gone better has only inspired me to be a part of making that possible.

8. February 3 is National Women Physicians Day. What does it mean to you to be a black woman about to enter the medical field? What do you hope to accomplish as a doctor?

Akinfemiwa: Black female doctors represent only about 2 percent of physicians in the US. I decided to go into medicine to help fight for health equity. I hope to inspire more black women to pursue medicine because we are truly needed. Black physicians are essential to achieving equity in medical care and I look forward to supporting and advocating for patients as an emergency medicine physician.

9. Best piece of advice about clinical rotations for basic sciences med students?

Akinfemiwa: Take care of yourself and listen to your body. If you love to take naps like me, take those naps!

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

Prioritizing Student Support During Clinical Rotations: Faculty Spotlight on Associate Dean Dr. Sherry Singh

/in , /by

Sherry Singh, MD '00, associate dean of SGU’s US clinical studies program and director of the US Onsite Clinical Student Support Program.

This month’s faculty spotlight is on Dr. Sherry Singh, a 2000 graduate of St. George’s University and associate dean of SGU’s US clinical studies program. She also is the director of the US Onsite Clinical Student Support Program.

In her current role, Dr. Singh has her hands in many facets of the clinical student’s journey to graduation, including visiting SGU’s clinical sites, overseeing curriculum, ensuring academic standards are met, as well as participating in the development and implementation of clinical student support modalities. She also enjoys interacting directly with students to offer guidance as they navigate their clinical years.

Among the topics she discussed with SGU News—advocating for women in healthcare as well as the need for students to prioritize self-care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

St. George’s University: Navigating clinical studies is an important time. What advice do you have for students?

Dr. Singh: I consider the third year of medical school at SGU the toughest year of their medical studies but also the most rewarding as they apply their basic sciences knowledge directly to patient care.

The third year will require a daily diligent commitment to learning both in the clinical environment as well as study time. I encourage students to keep an open mind as they approach each specialty and consider these years an opportunity to learn about all medical specialties, many of which they may not get a chance to experience directly once they enter into their chosen residency.

The fourth year is a time to strengthen their knowledge as they prepare to enter into residency. With such a tremendous network of clinical sites, I encourage students to take this opportunity to diversify where they do their electives.

SGU: You are a strong supporter of student wellness initiatives at SGU. Why it is important for medical students to take self-care seriously, especially during the pandemic?

Dr. Singh: “Wellness” has become somewhat of a buzz term in today’s world, yet it is not necessarily embraced by those in the world of medicine. As caregivers, it is very difficult to remember to care for yourself. With the pandemic adding yet another layer of complexity, physician burnout—and the number of healthcare workers as a whole—is on the rise. The perseverance with which our students have withstood these difficult times is a testament to their abilities.

Nonetheless, it is critical they manage their time and make self-care a priority—be it exercise, connecting with others, or learning and practicing mindfulness. Learning how to incorporate and build on these skills will lead to a more resilient physician in the long run. Students should take advantage of the various services SGU has to offer available via the University Portal (The Well and through BCS Group).

SGU: National Women’s Physician’s Day is Feb. 3. How has the landscape of medicine changed over the recent years for women physicians?

Dr. Singh: Women are now a majority in medical schools which is helping to balance the ratio of physicians in the workforce. As a result, there continues to be increased awareness of the issues that female physicians face, including work-life balance, compensation discrepancies, and gender equity. Women have taken on roles in both the medical world as well as in leadership positions to help fuel change. In addition, with increased awareness, more men are also helping to equalize the opportunities for men and women. As we recognize and continue to discuss the issues women in medicine face, it is imperative to develop amenable solutions to ensure their success and impact in healthcare.

 

St. George’s University School of Medicine Alumni Association will be hosting a virtual event to celebrate National Women Physician’s Day on February 3 at 9 pm ET. Students are encouraged to log on to the Facebook Live event that will be held simultaneously. 

Learn more about the Feb. 3 alumni event

 

SGU: As part of the Advisory Council for the Women Business Collaborative, you recently hosted the first Healthcare Forum for WBC. What were some of the key takeaways from that discussion?

Dr. Singh: This was a very exciting opportunity to connect with several leaders in healthcare. With SGU being the largest provider of physicians to the US workforce, hosting this forum was a very important start for me.

Key points of discussion were:

  • The ongoing need for mentorship for women (from both women and men), not just awareness but acceptance of the specific issues that women face in striving for work/parenting/life balance;
  • The need to find ways to support women physicians in innovative ways and remove barriers so they can continue successfully as physicians as well as leaders in healthcare; and
  • The positive impacts on patient care from women physicians.

SGU: How can female med students implement these lessons? 

Dr. Singh: Our female students should continue to strive for excellence in all fields of medicine. I encourage them to seek out mentorship as well as lead the way for others toward their goals. Embracing diversity and inclusion and procuring a sense of belonging along the way are essential as we work toward a more equitable environment. This is true for all students, not just our female students.

SGU: How has your career in medicine influenced your role in academia?

Dr. Singh: My career in medicine has been a strong influence on my role in academic medicine by allowing me to bring my own experiences from my teaching roles in understanding the complexities that clinical students face and the particular skill sets they must develop.  By understanding the practice of medicine in our ever-changing world, it has allowed me to contribute to the ongoing refinement of our clinical program at SGU with the goal of continuing the essential and positive impact our students continue to have in the US and around the world.

SGU: What is your best memory from attending SGU?

Dr. Singh: I am often reminded of the surreal excitement I felt as a student arriving in Grenada—in particular, at our White Coat Ceremony. Just as fondly, I recall the overwhelming feeling as I entered Lincoln Center in New York City for the commencement ceremonies with my classmates. Those friendships have long endured. For me, I not only get to pay it forward but to share those moments of excitement as I help new students put on their white coats and, during commencement, hood our deserving graduates. It is truly the best gift!

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky