Match Day 2025: 1,000+ SGU Students and Grads Secure Residency Positions

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Collage of students who matched in 2025

A wave of excitement and relief swept through the St. George’s University community on Friday as hundreds of future doctors discovered where they will continue their medical training during Match Day 2025.

More than 1,015 SGU School of Medicine students and graduates secured first-year US residency positions.* These numbers are expected to climb in the coming weeks.

“The entire St. George’s University community congratulates this remarkable class of medical students on their success,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the St. George’s University School of Medicine. “This milestone represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and resilience.”

 

View SGU Residency Placements

 

Students matched in 20 specialties, including highly competitive positions and crucial primary care fields. They include:

  • Anesthesiology,
  • Child neurology,
  • Diagnostic radiology,
  • Emergency medicine,
  • Family medicine,
  • Internal medicine,
  • Neurodevelopmental disabilities,
  • Neurology,
  • Obstetrics and gynecology,
  • Orthopedic surgery,
  • Pathology,
  • Pediatrics,
  • Physical medicine and rehabilitation,
  • Plastic surgery,
  • Psychiatry,
  • Surgery,
  • Vascular surgery, and more.

 

They will join residency programs, many at prestigious institutions, in 41 US states and the District of Columbia this summer.

 

View Our Match Day Reel

 

Match Day is a milestone moment in students’ medical education as they learn where their hard work and determination will take them in their careers. Students and graduates will now enjoy the fruits of their labor as the next chapter of their medical training begins—this time with “MD” beside their name.

SGU News spoke with several students who recently matched to hear about the emotions behind the moment they found out their hard work had paid off, and what they’re most eager to experience during residency. Here’s a glimpse into their journey.

Roberta Vadan

Roberta Vadan, MD ’25 (expected)

Matched: Internal medicine
Hospital: Florida State University
Hospital location: Cape Coral, FL

How did you feel when you Matched? When I found out I matched, it felt like such a surreal moment. I couldn’t believe that as an international student with so many barriers, I was able to successfully land a wonderful position at FSU. I’m so thrilled and so grateful for all the mentors, my close friends, and family members that were able to support me during my time.

 

Ahmad Elfaham

Ahmad Elfaham, MD ’25 (expected)

Matched: Internal medicine/interventional radiology
Hospital: Maimonides (preliminary year)/Northwell Mather
Hospital location: Port Jefferson, NY

How did you feel when you matched? It was mixed emotions. I truly didn’t expect it. The program was ranked my number two, and the hospital only has one spot since it’s interventional radiology integrated. I was in disbelief. Either way, I’m very, very excited about this opportunity.
What are you most looking forward to during residency? Working with great mentors, staff, and meeting amazing new residents from all over the country. Also I can’t wait to finally get my first check!

 

Dailyn Figueredo

Dailyn Figueredo, MD ’25

Matched: General surgery
Hospital: Mount Sinai Medical Center
Hospital location: Miami Beach, FL

How did you feel when you matched? I felt relieved that I would be staying home to start my journey as a future surgeon and that all the hard work from the last four years paid off.

What are you most looking forward to during residency? I’m looking forward to connecting with new like-minded individuals who are working towards becoming surgeons and bettering our patients’ lives. I’m also excited to apply and further practice the knowledge I have acquired these last four years.

 

Chanel Johnson

Chanel Johnson, MD ’25 (expected)

Matched: Emergency medicine
Hospital: Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center
Hospital location: Bronx, NY

How did you feel when you matched? So excited! I am very grateful to have matched into my first choice!

What are you most looking forward to during residency? The training! Lincoln is the third busiest emergency department in the United States so it will be a hard four years, but I know the training will be top tier.

 

Mary Wolfe Pestana

Mary Wolfe Pestana, MD ’25 (expected)

Matched: General surgery
Hospital: University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville
Hospital location: Jacksonville, FL

How did you feel when you matched? When I opened that email and found out that I had matched categorical general surgery, it felt like all the work I had put in was finally worth it. All the people who discouraged me from my dream were wrong. I am so excited to encourage others that it is possible.

 

Geraldine Ortega

Geraldine Ortega, MD ’25 (expected)

Matched: Internal medicine
Hospital: Englewood Hospital and Medical Center
Hospital location: Englewood, NJ

How did you feel when you matched? When I found out I had matched, I felt an overwhelming wave of emotions—relief, excitement, and pure joy. This was the moment I had been working toward for years, and seeing my hard work pay off was incredibly rewarding. It was a mix of gratitude and disbelief, knowing that I was finally taking the next step toward my dream of becoming a physician.

What are you most looking forward to during residency? The most exciting part of starting residency is finally being able to do what I have dreamed of since childhood—taking care of patients. This is the beginning of the career I’ve always envisioned, and I can’t wait to apply my skills. Every challenge and learning opportunity in residency will bring me closer to my dream of pursuing a fellowship, and I couldn’t be more ready for this next chapter.

 

*Data as of March 2025

 

 

– Juliette Kimmins and Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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From refugee to MD: SGU alum inspired to pursue medicine by time in refugee camp

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Otis Zeon wearing a white coat and stethoscope

“What would you be if there were no obstacles?”

At 16 years old, Otis Zeon, MD ’17, MPH ’20, MBA ’24, was asked this question by his aunt during a family road trip. He pondered it deeply. Growing up, it seemed as though he and his family had encountered nothing but obstacles.

At that point in his life, Dr. Zeon was a fresh-faced teenager navigating high school in a new country. He and his family had just spent a decade living in a refugee camp in Accra, Ghana and were recently granted political asylum in the US.

Considering his aunt’s question, Dr. Zeon recalled the volunteer medical professionals that had served him and his family in the Buduburam refugee camp. That is when he thought to himself, “I want to do that.”

Today, Dr. Zeon is a St. George’s University School of Medicine graduate and recently started residency specializing in family medicine at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, CA. But once, he was a child growing up in an environment experiencing profound hardship.

Humble beginnings 

In 1989, civil war broke out in Liberia, Dr. Zeon’s home country, when he was only five years old. As the sounds of grenades, bombshells, and gunshots rang in his ears and unspeakable acts of violence played out around him, his family fled. Their destination? Anywhere that was safe.

They called the Buduburam refugee camp in Ghana their home for the next 10 years. It was not easy, as conditions in the camp were harsh.

“During the dry seasons, the scarcity of water led to severe dehydration and hygiene issues, causing diseases like typhoid fever, dysentery, and malnutrition,” Dr. Zeon explained.

When a close friend who had been abandoned by his family came down with cholera, Dr. Zeon remained by his friend’s side, bringing him clean drinking water, soup, and medicine. His friend survived, and Dr. Zeon immediately began encouraging healthier habits in the camp to prevent disease. He found a passion for educating and caring for others.

“The discovery I made years later was that at such a young age, living in such a deplorable condition, my burning desire was to help take care of my sick friends and family,” he said.

Dr. Zeon’s passion for medicine only grew as he watched the volunteer doctors in the refugee camp remove parasites, perform amputations, and administer vaccination. He asked the doctors questions and sought to be close to the action to help them. These were the memories that came to his mind in response to his aunt’s question on that road trip.

A dream in progress

In 2000, Dr. Zeon and his family were granted asylum. They relocated to Lansing, MI for a few months and eventually settled in Minnesota.

“The adjustment to the US was shocking but in a good way,” Dr. Zeon said. “Despite the challenges in the US, life in Michigan was a hundred times better.”

He studied hard, finishing high school in Minnesota. After that, he earned his bachelor’s degree in fine art and biology from the College of St. Scholastica as the arts and STEM were two of his biggest passions.

As he and his family embraced their new community, Dr. Zeon’s passion for caring for others deepened.

Dr. Zeon decided to become a certified nurse’s assistant. In this role, he realized that his time at Buduburam equipped him with the ability to communicate complex medical concepts and diagnoses in a more accessible way. Understanding one’s medical condition was an issue present in many regardless of whether they were in suburban Minnesota or a refugee camp in Ghana, Dr. Zeon observed.

“I became a volunteer to many in my [new] community, providing them with interpretation of their medical condition, treatment directives provided by their healthcare providers, as well as educating them on prevention methods,” said Dr. Zeon.

Entering a noble profession

A few years into working with patients and making an impact, Dr. Zeon decided to pursue earning his Doctor of Medicine. He initially became aware of SGU from two friends who had completed their first two years on the island. After researching and considering offers from other medical schools, he ultimately felt that SGU was the best option for him.

He looked back on his years living in Grenada with fondness.

“Apart from the fact that the university is built like a resort, living on the island put me in the best shape of my life, and my mind was very sharp,” he said. “The island provides a healthy isolation from distractions, allowing you to focus on pursuing your education. I particularly enjoyed tutoring my fellow classmates in anatomy labs, pathology, and other courses.”

His clinical years also provided ample opportunity for Dr. Zeon to go to new places and hone his skills. He spent his clinical years at hospitals in Miami, FL, San Francisco, CA, and Toledo, OH.

Headshot of Otis Zeon

Paying it forward

Dr. Zeon’s chosen specialty of family medicine stems from his experiences in the refugee camp, as most of the doctors who provided them care practiced family medicine.

“After learning more about this field, I wholeheartedly believe that primary care, and particularly family medicine, hold the keys to community health improvements, education, and healthcare policymaking,” said Dr. Zeon. “This branch of medicine truly makes a difference.”

His long-term goals include practicing and teaching medicine in Los Angeles and developing more user-friendly healthcare products, software, hardware, and education programs. Already Dr. Zeon is making strides in this field with the release of his recent project, Medyfy. The online service, he explains, is an AI-powered medical question bank app with 20,000 questions for USMLE Step 1, 2, and 3.

He also plans to spend part of his time practicing medicine in less developed countries to pay it forward, connecting others to the care and opportunities that have been so transformative in his life.

For Dr. Zeon, he is grateful for SGU for giving him the chance to prove himself in the field of medicine. Being given this opportunity and fully embracing it helped him to land a position at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

He credits SGU’s Office of Career Guidance and Student Development with giving him valuable advice and guidance to strengthen his residency applications earning him a spot in his first-choice program.

“Thanks to SGU’s support and guidance, I am now living my dream, making a difference in my community, and inspiring others to pursue their own paths in medicine,” he said.

Adding Dr. Zeon: “Earning my Doctor of Medicine from St. George’s University is the most significant accomplishment of my life. It represents a victory not just for me but for my family and community.”

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

 

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SGU Physician Humanitarian Network Brings Life-Changing Eye Care to Grenadians

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SGU PHuN ophthalmology team

Grenadians received critical eye care services recently through the St. George’s University (SGU) Physician Humanitarian Network (PHuN) ophthalmology clinic—the first specialized eye clinic since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Former SGU student Dr. Bernard Spier headed the ophthalmology clinic in Grenada, along with two ophthalmologists, Dr. Elliot Crane and Dr. Zachary Mendelson, and two assistants, Ms. Karen Rodriguez and Ms. Carrie Rivera. The clinic took place from February 19 to March 1, 2024.

The team completed 139 examinations and consultations for those suffering from eye-related ailments such as cataracts and glaucoma. Additionally, the team did more than 40 procedures including small-incision cataract surgeries, corneal transplants, YAG laser procedures, and Avastin injections that restored and improved sight for many Grenadians. The team completed these procedures with $117,656 USD worth of donated medical supplies, surgical equipment, corneal tissue, and more, organized by Dr. Spier.

Dr. Spier, an ophthalmologist with a practice in South Orange, NJ, participated in his first PHuN ophthalmology clinic in 2006. This past trip marks his 13th trip to Grenada to serve the local community through PHuN. According to Dr. Spier, he chose to donate his time and skills to the Grenadian people because it is “a basic act of human kindness.”

“For me, it’s the idea of improving a person’s life with these procedures,” Dr. Spier said. “Simply, it feels good to do that.”

Dr. Spier poses with ophthalmology equipment

Dr. Spier stands with a piece of ophthalmology equipment

The SGU PHuN Program has a history of making an impact on the lives of Grenadians in other specialties such as cardiology, vascular surgery, and obstetrics/gynecology.

“The SGU PHuN program is extremely beneficial to the Grenadian community because it provides valuable support in the form of medical services to the people of the island as well as donations of medical supplies to the ophthalmology clinic,” said Dr. Brendon La Grenade, vice provost of St. George’s University. “It also provides an outlet for a variety of SGU doctors of various disciplines to give back to the island where they got both their education and medical career starts.”

For Dr. Spier, the chance to give back to the people of Grenada is deeply meaningful.

“I have a special place in my heart for Grenada because that’s where I got my start in medicine,” said Dr. Spier. “Grenada gave me an opportunity to become a doctor. If I hadn’t gone to Grenada, I would’ve done something else [besides medicine].”

Dr. Spier encourages other former students and alumni of SGU to consider participating in the SGU PHuN program, naming it as a profoundly rewarding experience.

“If you want to help the people of Grenada and want to go back to Grenada you should do it,” Dr. Spier said.

 

–Juliette Kimmins

 

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SGU Reinforces Focus on Medical Humanities for Students

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Developing a holistic and compassionate approach to the treatment of patients is a key competency needed by physicians in order to address today’s global healthcare needs. Learning these soft skills and acquiring knowledge that focuses on the humanities is an important part in a med student’s overall training. St. George’s University School of Medicine students can expand their humanities knowledge and learnings through the recently formalized Department of Medical Humanities and History of Medicine.

“Medicine is not merely a profession. It’s a noble pursuit—a calling to serve humanity and alleviate suffering,” said School of Medicine Dean Dr. Marios Loukas. “Being a good doctor means actively seeking to understand the unique experiences and perspectives of patients by acknowledging and addressing health disparities and providing the highest quality of care to every individual.”

SOM’s new Department of Medical Humanities and History of Medicine aims to emphasize and integrate humanities and history of medicine courses throughout SGU’s four-year MD program. The department is led by Robert Hage, MD, PhD, DLO, MBA as chair, and Arlette Herry, PhD, assistant dean of multicultural affairs, as its deputy chair.

Disseminated information will strengthen students’ communication skills and empathy, enrich their patient relationships, help build rapport with patients and colleagues, enhance their cultural competency, and mitigate burnout, among other benefits.

“Pure curriculum-based biomedical sciences do not pay sufficient attention to quality of life,” Dr. Hage said. “SGU’s medical humanities department helps students tap into crucial attributes such as introspection/reflection, empathy, and cultural humbleness—all of which are pivotal in creating a physician who is ready to serve a global community.”

What are the medical humanities?

The field of medical humanities is an interdisciplinary approach that incorporates various aspects of the humanities and social sciences into the study of medicine and healthcare. It provides a broader and more holistic understanding of health, illness, and medicine, taking into account the cultural, social, and ethical dimensions of these topics.

On the blog: What makes a good doctor? 7 surprisingly useful skills for physicians

 

SGU’s School of Medicine currently offers  offers students a range of extracurricular selectives to choose from delivered by faculty with a special interest and are far from the normal standardized courses. Faculty from other departments, such as the Department of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, will collaborate to offer relevant courses to basic sciences students. Clinical students will be able to register for a medical humanities elective through the New Jersey-based hospital system, Atlantic Health.

“Currently, we are creating the foundation to coordinate all these activities, including involvement by student clubs,” according to Dr. Herry.

SOM students can earn recognition in the medical humanities through research activities, certificates, a diploma, and eventually, a Master of Science.

On the blog: Recognizing the importance of cultural competence in healthcare

 

“Medical humanities play a vital role in broadening the education and training of healthcare professionals by emphasizing the importance of cultural and social contexts, effective communication, and empathy in patient care,” Dr. Hage said.

Students interested in learning more go to the department’s section on the University portal.

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

7 key benefits of the medical humanities

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3 Pieces of Advice from Dean of Students Dr. Lucy Clunes

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For students pursuing challenging degrees, having a sense of community and creating a home away from home is fundamental to wellness and success. Fortunately, there are many ways for students to acclimate and find support on campus at St George’s University.

Dean of Students Dr. Lucy Clunes describes campus support as being like family for the duration of students’ time at SGU. She describes it as a community, emphasizing the various organizations and societies students can join.

“We want to give students the best possible learning opportunities available so they can reach their full potential,” said Dr. Clunes.

SGU News sat down with Dr. Clunes to learn more about how students can make the most of their education. Here are three pieces of advice she shared.

 

lucy clunes

1. Seek mentorship opportunities

Dr. Clunes highlights the importance of seeking mentorship from different individuals, as areas of expertise vary between departments.

“Students are encouraged to seek guidance from all faculty members,” said Dr. Clunes. “Faculty are always available to help guide students, and anyone can be approached for mentorship opportunities.”

 

2. Take advantage of the dedicated support services on campus

Resources for students at SGU include academic and non-academic support, such as assisting with accommodations and accessibility requirements, helping international students with transit visas, providing health and psychological services, and familial support. Students can get involved on campus through a variety of organizations and societies, such as the student government association, recreational activities, cultural, spiritual and academic organizations, intermural sports, and events on and off campus.

 

3. Prioritize your physical and mental health

Dr. Clunes emphasizes the importance of managing both mental and physical health, especially given the stress and pressure of being a student.

“Balance is critical since efficiency productivity as a student requires you to be physically and mentally healthy,” said Dr. Clunes.

To encourage students to take care of their health at SGU, the wellness center on campus is an excellent resource offering fitness classes including yoga, cardio, and high intensity interval training. Rounding out SGU’s focus on health, are treatments from weekly massages to aromatherapy, as well as wellness days offered throughout the semester.

With a full-service wellness center, mentorship opportunities, and more than 80 student organizations and societies to choose from, incoming students can rest assured they will receive as much guidance and support as they need while acclimating to a new environment. The available resources support all SGU students as they create a sense of community and work toward their future careers.

—Sarah Stoss and Madeleine Otto

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SOM Spring White Coat Ceremony: The Legacy Continues for SGU President and Son

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With a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years in medicine, Dr. G. Richard Olds, president emeritus at St. George’s University was thrilled to have his son, Trevor Olds follow in his footsteps. In addition to being this year’s keynote speaker, Dr. Olds also had the honor of coating Trevor at the Spring 2023 School of Medicine White Coat Ceremony.

View photos from the SOM Spring 2023 White Coat Ceremony


“I’m extremely proud of Trevor and happy to share in this milestone moment as he takes his first official steps into the medical profession,” said Dr. Olds. “I have three wonderful sons, but none of whom seemed to want a career in medicine. In fact, Trevor started his career as a professional actor, but I’m delighted he decided to transition into the MD program here at SGU and that I had the special privilege of coating him.”

The future Dr. Olds joined his fellow students in the Class of 2027 as they walked across the stage on January 28 at Patrick F. Adams Hall to receive their white coats. At the end of the ceremony, which marks their entry into the field of medicine, they recited the Oath of Professionalism, where they pledge to uphold the highest of ethical standards while treating their patients.

In his keynote address, Dr. Olds shared three moving stories providing lessons on what it means to be a good physician. His second story centered on Trevor giving his family a medical scare but ended with them being comforted by a physician wearing a white coat.

“All of the men in the Olds family are quite sentimental,” shared Trevor Olds. “So, I was glad that I had a bit of time between my father’s keynote address and when I had to go up to be coated—because I needed to compose myself a little bit. It was such a sweet and special moment, and his speech was very touching and meaningful.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

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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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Black History Month: SOM Students and Grads Hope to Inspire Next Generation of Doctors

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With the need to improve overall representation of minority doctors in medicine, students and graduates of St. George’s University School of Medicine who identify as Black or African American plan to make a difference in the field by advocating for underserved communities and the patients they serve, and by inspiring tomorrow’s minority physicians through mentorship and education.

According to the Association of American Colleges, just 5 percent of active physicians identified as Black or African American in 2018. Even more astonishing, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found only 4.6 percent of surgeons identify themselves as Black or African American.

This year’s theme for Black History Month is “Black Health and Wellness.” SGU News spoke with School of Medicine students and graduates about their motivations to go to medical school and their career path of choice, the challenges they perceive for minority physicians, and how they can inspire the next generation of Black and African American doctors. Our panel consisted of:

  • Jasmine Shackelford, MD ’20, family medicine resident at Emory University School of Medicine
  • Paul Osunwa, MD ’21, first-year anesthesia resident physician at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
  • Melissa Cheong, SOM Term 5, president of SGU’s Student National Medical Association
  • Amanda Herbert, SOM fourth-year student, Class of 2022
  • Okechukwu Nwosu, SOM fourth-year student, Class of 2022
  • Hannah Terefe, third-year SOM student, who also writes for the blog Women in White Coats.

Jasmine Shackelford, MD ’20, a family medicine resident at Emory University School of Medicine.

St. George’s University: What inspired you to enter the field of medicine?

Dr. Jasmine Shackelford: My inspiration for pursuing medicine started as a young girl where I witnessed a lot of apprehension from family members as it pertained to trusting and maintaining healthy relationships with healthcare providers. I wanted to make a difference in helping to eliminate the health disparities that exist in my community, as well as to encourage people to take charge of their health.

Dr. Paul Osunwa: I was originally a business major in undergrad and switched to nursing when the stock market crash occurred in 2008. I also competed in Division 1 athletics as a shot putter on the track and field team at Texas Christian University. My mother was a nurse and two of my cousins were nurses. I was surrounded by individuals who had been in healthcare. I took it to the next level by attaining my MD.

Melissa Cheong: At the age of five, my mother got extremely sick and was in and out of the hospital as I was growing up. Being around medicine at a young age was intriguing and I always found myself asking questions and wanting to get involved. This passion only grew stronger as I got older. Medicine allows for me to interact with people on a daily, while also using my science background to problem solve. I love interacting with people and making individuals feel comfortable in difficult times and situations.

Okechukwu Nwosu: So many people are going through so much, and I want to listen to their problems and help them make good decisions. I also want to be a role model for my community. If I have little kids looking up to me, and if they watch what I do and consider my advice, whether it’s telling them to look after their body, to eat right, not to smoke, then I’ve set them on a good course.

Paul Osunwa, MD ’21, a first-year anesthesia resident physician at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

SGU: What are the biggest challenges for black men and women in medicine?

Dr. Shackelford: Representation. Although there has been an increase in the number of women practicing medicine, specifically underrepresented minority women, there are still more advancements to be made. Representation matters and it is critical to combat the long-standing history of mistrust that exists between the healthcare systems in minority communities. We must acknowledge the disparities that exist within this field, the negative clinical outcomes related to those disparities, and collectively work together towards change.

Dr. Osunwa: The biggest obstacle black medical providers have is believing that we don’t have a place in medicine. Removing the seeds of self-doubt is important.

Melissa Cheong, SOM student, president of SGU’s Student National Medical Association.

Ms. Cheong: The biggest challenge is navigating through a field where we do not see very many individuals who look like us. It can be discouraging at times. Being a minority in medicine also introduces imposter syndrome. The challenge may present itself as us asking ourselves: “Do we belong here?”, “Did I diagnosis my patient correctly?”

Amanda Herbert: Knowing that you are good enough! When you are in a room full of doctors and residents and your skin color, hair, background, and body type are different, the question sometimes arises: Am I good enough to be in this room? I must remind myself, with all my differences, I bring something unique to the table that makes me better than “good enough.”

Mr. Nwosu: People tend to gravitate to people who look like them, people they feel they can relate to and trust. In the rotation I’m on right now, most of the parents and patients are African American. We need more Black doctors so we can educate that community on how to take care of their body and address health morbidities before they even become an issue. Trust is huge in the patient-doctor relationship, so training more minority physicians can help increase medical knowledge and compliance of practices within minority populations.

 

“Representation matters and it is critical to combat the long-standing history of mistrust that exists between the healthcare systems in minority communities.”

 

Hannah Terefe: I think there’s always going to be more work to be done in improving the culture we are expected to thrive in. With the increase in awareness and conversations surrounding topics that affect Black and Brown doctors, I’m hopeful that we can one day get to a point where we are able to claim our spaces within the medical field comfortably. Until then, we will continue to further the legacy of those who came before us and fight for our voices to be heard and respected.

School of Medicine student, Okechukwu Nwosu.

SGU: What do you love most about your work/studies?

Dr. Shackelford: By choosing to become a primary care physician, specifically trained in family medicine, I find immense joy in those long-lasting relationships that I can have with my patients and their families through all walks of life. The continuity is unmatched! I thoroughly enjoy being at the center of their healthcare team and making sure that I am doing my best for these individuals to help prevent illnesses.

Dr. Osunwa: I love to see a positive end to any situation I’m dealing with—whether it’s a tough diagnosis that has been worked up for several days or a patient who has been on the decline that finally makes a turnaround for a full recovery.

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Ms. Cheong: I love learning about the different systems in medicine and how each system interconnects. It truly allows for me to look at the body holistically and approach medicine with an open mind.

Ms. Terefe: During my last rotation in OB/GYN, I realized that no matter what specialty or field of medicine you’re interested in, there’s always more work to be done in protecting the safety, well-being, and mental health of our patients. This aspect of medicine is what keeps me motivated to continuously study to ensure that I provide my patient with the best holistic care possible.

School of Medicine student, Hannah Terefe.

SGU: How can Black doctors “pay it forward”? How do you plan to make a difference? 

Dr. Shackelford: I think the best way to “pay it forward” is to continue to be advocates for the minority patients we serve and to help create opportunities for future black physicians that will come after us. Working towards eliminating the health disparities that exist within our communities will lead these vulnerable populations towards better health outcomes.

Dr. Osunwa: As the saying goes “charity begins at home.” I plan to continue advocating for those who I am in close contact with and letting that light illuminate others. If each of us take a part in advocating and correcting microaggressions the workplace, it will make a broad difference overall.

Ms. Cheong: By serving underprivileged communities where people don’t have adequate access to healthcare and insurance. And by becoming mentors for the medical community, being available, and remembering where we all started and where we are all heading. I want to serve as a mentor and tutor to students in the field of medicine. I will advocate for minorities in medicine by making sure there is diversity and inclusion programs where we attend school or a residency.

 

“I plan to pay it forward primarily through mentorship. I’ve watched students give up their dreams of becoming a physician mostly because they weren’t aware of how to seek support.”

 

Ms. Herbert: We must mentor up-and-coming black doctors every step of the way. The support I received from Black healthcare professionals on my journey was priceless. I plan to make a difference by allowing pre-med students to shadow my practice.

Mr. Nwosu: Black doctors can pay it forward by inspiring our youth by visiting elementary schools. We need to make these areas of expertise as exciting as the areas of athletics and entertainment within black culture. Holding each other accountable and helping each other strive for greatness will increase the interest of young African Americans in going into the fields of science, technology, and mathematics.

Ms. Terefe: I plan to pay it forward primarily through mentorship. In the last few years, I’ve watched students give up their dreams of becoming a physician mostly because they weren’t aware of how to seek support. Mentorship looks different for everyone. For me, it means serving as a bank of experiential knowledge for others. If I can hand off the lessons I’ve gained, then they can continue to build upon their own foundation and path to medicine.

 

School of Medicine student, Amanda Herbert.

 

 

— Paul Burch

 

 

Related Reading

 

Marine, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Degree Gains Accreditation from Royal Society of Biology

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St. George’s University School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) is pleased to announce that the Bachelor of Science Honors (BSc Hons) in Marine, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology (MWC) has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). It becomes the first program in the Western Hemisphere to obtain this distinction, further establishing SAS as a premier higher learning institution in the Caribbean. 

The degree program is housed within the SAS’s Department of Biology, Ecology, and Conservation (BEC). It is only the 11th program outside of the United Kingdom to earn RSB accreditation, which will last through the end of 2026.  

“We are very enthusiastic not only about the breadth of opportunities available in this program but also about its potential for current and future students,” said Dr. Lucy Eugene, dean of the SAS. “There is nowhere quite like Grenada for studying marine and terrestrial biology, and we’re so proud of what this program has become, and of all the incredible faculty and staff members who helped us attain this accreditation.”  

This marks another accreditation by an international body joining other SGU programs: 

  • School of Medicine: Grenada Medical and Dental Council (GMDC) 
  • School of Veterinary Medicine: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) 
  • SAS BSc Nursing degree: Grenada Nursing and Midwifery Council (GNMC) and the Caribbean’s Nursing Board
  • Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Master of Public Health (MPH) degree: Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)

“With this accreditation, our students can be confident that their program is consistent with internationally recognized standards and that they are prepared to undertake graduate programs,” said Dr. Cristofre Martin, chair of the Department of Biology, Ecology, and Conservation. “It also gives future employers and advisors confidence that their employees have been well trained in marine and terrestrial biology,” 

To graduate, students are required to complete 121 hours of coursework in lectures, the laboratory, and in the field, where they develop skills required to conduct ecological surveys, measure abiotic parameters, and manage and analyze data, while implementing a research design.  

“Grenada is ideal to study marine, wildlife, and conservation biology,” said Dr. Patricia Rosa, BEC deputy chair and MWC program director. “It offers a unique learning environment considering our classrooms are rainforest, dry forest, mangroves, estuaries, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems. This diversity of ecosystems is also readily accessible; one can go from the beach to a mountain peak in the same day.”  

 

“We’re so proud of what this program has become, and of all the incredible faculty and staff members who helped us attain this accreditation.”

 

All students must also complete an independent research project and a capstone thesis in their final year to graduate. Upon doing so, graduates receive an accredited honors degree and a certificate outlining the mastery of 75 technical skills related to marine biology, as well as transferrable job skills such as leadership, communications, and project management. 

“This accreditation will lead to more opportunities and recognition for our students and graduates,” said Dr. Rosa. “It will also enable our department to enhance research capacity and train more highly qualified personnel for conservation in the Caribbean.” 

What graduates are saying about the MWC program

Farihah Khan (Trinidad and Tobago), Class of 2019: 

“I can confidently say that my time at SGU as a MWC student was well spent.  The program’s high academic standards allowed me to develop a solid foundation in science and instilled in me a strong work ethic and sense of professionalism. Its Environment Conservation Outreach (ECO) student organization also encouraged me to balance academic work with extracurricular club activities. The rapport between students and educators was excellent and the teaching is unparalleled. It sets you on a positive trajectory as you enter the working world or continued studies.” 

Saiyana Baksh (Guyana), Class of 2021: 

“My experience at SGU has been no less than exceptional and enlightening. The University overall is challenging, and being an international student had additional challenges. SGU’s commitment to providing students with high academic and professional skills is constant and reliable. It has made me capable of handling anything that’s thrown my way. Their commitment to quality education allowed me to reach a level of maturity and wisdom that may not have been possible under different circumstances.” 

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Brief report from October SOM faculty meetings

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The SOM faculty meeting and clinical departmental meetings, held on October 16 and 17, were an excellent opportunity to hear updates from basic sciences and clinical colleagues, despite being held virtually.  

The Saturday, October 16 plenary session was an overview of the changes to the school’s administrative structure, with  presentations by SOM Dean Dr. Marios Loukas, Dr. Robert Grant, senior associate dean for clinical studies, Dr. Arlette Herry, assistant dean of multicultural affairs, and Dr. Brenda Kirkby, associate dean of accreditation.  

The plenary was followed by breakout sessions on subcommittee topics relating to the accreditation self-study. Breakout session topics included:  

  • Institutional setting and governance;  
  • Curriculum governance and content; 
  • Curriculum delivery and structure, and assessment methods and outcomes; 
  • Students;
  • Academic environment and institutional effectiveness (diversity, learning environment and quality assurance); and 
  • Faculty affairs and faculty development.   

The lively and informative discussions of these sessions were a valuable opportunity for basic sciences faculty, affiliate clinical faculty, and administrators to meet and discuss topics of common interest.  

Clinical department meetings were held on Sunday, October 17.  Discussion topics included: 

  • Changes to clerkship assessments 
  • Comparability across clinical sites within each discipline 
  • Sub-internships, and  
  • Standardized evaluation letters. 

We look forward to seeing you for the virtual SOM faculty meetings March 4-6, 2022. Please be reminded that all SOM faculty are expected to attend.