Lux Shah, MD ’21, was looking for an adventure when he applied to St. George’s University School of Medicine. Moving to the Caribbean is an adventure itself, but Dr. Shah would also find adventure in the diversity of patient experiences he would encounter at a few of SGU’s 75+ clinical sites.

“I was looking for a medical school that had a proven track record of residency success and one that could provide me with a sense of adventure,” the Houston, TX-native said. “Moving to the Caribbean was always on my radar, and it definitely provided that sense of adventure. I also felt like I would get a sense of adventure rotating through different hospitals in SGU’s clinical network.”

His decision to pursue SGU was solidified after seeing the success of a family member who had graduated from the School of Medicine and was completing a fellowship in pulmonary critical care.

Today Dr. Shah is a general surgery resident at University of Texas Southwestern/Parkland Health in Dallas. Following residency, Dr. Shah hopes to complete fellowships that will further hone his skills so that he can ultimately practice in a Burn/Trauma Center at a large academic institution.

“To me, the most important thing to a human is their health,” he said. “It is truly an honor to help people reclaim their health and take control over their health decisions. It’s a challenging field, but nothing is more satisfying than knowing I have been part of a team that has helped thousands of people feel better and go home to their families.”

Read more about Dr. Shah’s path to surgery residency and his advice to the next generation of SGU medical students.

SGU: What did it feel like to match in a residency position?

Dr. Shah: Relief, validation, security, and most of all, comfort. There’s no way to explain the feeling you get from reaping the rewards from four years of hard work. To this day, it’s surreal that I get to do what I do, and that wouldn’t have been possible without SGU.

SGU: What was your experience like during the Match application process? How did the Office of Career Guidance help you optimize your residency applications?

Dr. Shah: I would say that my experience with my clinical coordinators was really great. Overall, they were helpful to guide me into beneficial rotations throughout my clinical years. They were also able to help me stay on track for the application timeline and requirements.

As for how to make yourself a good applicant, OCG was very helpful. In addition, I received guidance on my study habits early in Term 1, which carried me through the rest of the didactic years. When I reached clinical rotations, the clinical coordinators and senior students were invaluable to helping me shine in my rotations.

SGU: How did SGU help you prepare for the USMLE exams?

Dr. Shah: Repetition is the hallmark of adult learning and that is something that SGU instills right from the beginning. Really nothing on Step 1 or 2 was a surprise for me. It was all a variation of questions I had effectively seen before.

SGU: How did SGU prepare you for residency and your career in general?

Dr. Shah: I think one of the biggest benefits of SGU is their vast clinical network. Because I chose to rotate at many hospitals and meet many people, I didn’t feel overwhelmed by being in a large medical system like UTSW/Parkland. Additionally, I was exposed to a lot of diversity in my patients and coworkers very early on in my medical career.

SGU: What advice would you give to aspiring med students about coming to Grenada for the first time?

Dr. Shah: Enjoy the island. Truly. While campus is beautiful, safe, and accessible, leave campus sometimes. There is an entire beautiful island of wonderful people, beaches, food, and adventures. It is safe and isn’t inundated by tourists. Take advantage of your time there—after making sure your schoolwork is taken care of, of course.

SGU: What advice would you give to SGU med students just starting clinicals?

Dr. Shah: Have a goal and tailor your clinical rotations to help you achieve that goal. I always knew I wanted to work in a large academic center, so I only rotated and made connections with people at large academic centers. That paid off. Also, learn and retain information and skills from all of your rotations. A good doctor is a well-rounded doctor, so even in surgery, I recall information I learned in other specialties.

SGU: Can you share a memorable professional accomplishment you have had since graduation?

Dr. Shah: I’m very early in my career, yet my hard work at SGU has led to me being at a top general surgery residency program. Additionally, thanks to my training at SGU and UTSW, I’ve written three review chapters on recent data/recommendations for patient care about  burns and trauma that will be read and used by other surgeons for clinical decision making.

SGU: Any final thoughts about SGU or advice to med students?

Dr. Shah: At the end of the day, medical school is a steppingstone on your path to becoming an attending doctor. Make sure you’re able to be on a fun and sturdy stone that gives you the best chance to reach the next stone. For me, SGU was exactly that. It was some of the best years of my life, and I’m ecstatic with my end result.

*This profile was originally published on January 22, 2025.

St. George’s University School of Medicine graduate Marc A. Milano, MD ’01, currently serves as chairman of emergency medicine at Newark Beth Israel (NBI) Medical Center and regional director of emergency medicine at Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health. He was named Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Faculty member of the year in 2020, won the Envision Health Genesis Cup in 2019 and the ACEP Clinical Excellence Award in 2020, and was Physician of the Year 2014 at Bayshore Community Hospital.

While Dr. Milano’s success is in no short supply, at one time he wasn’t even considering medicine as a career path. His parents had planted the seed, trying to inspire him to pursue medicine, according to Dr. Milano. Always having a passion for helping people during challenging times, he ultimately found that medicine allowed him to do what he loves through his life’s work.

He credits SGU and his determination to become an MD for preparing him well for clinicals and residency. While rotating at NBI, an affiliated hospital at the time, Dr. Milano carved a path for residency there, matched, and eventually rose to chief resident. Now, returning to NBI as chairman of emergency medicine truly feels like a full-circle moment for the New Jersey native.

Dr. Milano sat down with SGU News to share more of his journey and how SGU helped him along the way.

SGU: What is your favorite part of your job?

Dr. Milano: I love sitting down and holding the hand of an anxious or frightened patient and helping to calm them through whatever is going on with them—to provide reassurance, which I think is one of the best therapies we can administer. In fact, I train my students and residents that reassurance is a great prescription. You don’t need an electronic health record or a prescription pad to order it—it’s free, and no one is allergic to it!

SGU: How did you choose your specialty? What about it is appealing to you?

Dr. Milano: I chose emergency medicine because I knew I would never get bored or complacent. It is a fast-paced, high-energy specialty, which absolutely aligns with my personality.

SGU: How did SGU help prepare you for your career and specialty?

Dr. Milano: By supporting me as a student, particularly in the clinical years, SGU really helped guide me, which allowed me to end up in the program of my choice.

SGU: What was your experience in residency? What did it feel like to be named chief resident?

Dr. Milano: Residency was one of the best times of my life. I was one of the first ever SGU students to match into NBI. This was precedent-setting, as the program has since opened its doors to many more SGU graduates over the last 20+ years. We are proud and fortunate to have a great relationship with SGU.

When I was rotating at NBI as a student, the MD program was only a few years old. I recall during one of my rotations getting a moment of the attention of the department chair. I seized the opportunity and let him know that I wanted to train at NBI. Fortunately, I matched there. I am exceedingly proud to have represented SGU and continue to do so. Becoming chief resident was a dream come true, and it laid the foundation of my leadership journey.

SGU: What are your ultimate career plans?

Dr. Milano: I want to provide the highest quality, safest, and most compassionate care to my patients. I also want to train residents and students to be compassionate, competent physicians.

SGU: What advice do you have for aspiring medical students considering SGU?

Dr. Milano: Don’t wait. Take control of your life and if your heart is set on a career in medicine, SGU will give you the gift of that opportunity.

Sarthak Kulshreshtha, MD ’23, from New Delhi, India, is a family medicine resident at University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford in Rockford, IL. He received his medical degree after completing the five-year MD track offered by St. George’s University (SGU).

Dr. Kulshreshtha’s decision to pursue medicine stems from his passion for science and the desire to help people. Fascinated by the human body and how it works, the family medicine resident also strongly seeks to positively impact people’s lives. Combining the two interests made medicine a clear career choice for him.

Dr. Kulshreshtha shared his experience at SGU and his advice for aspiring medical students.

SGU: What did it feel like when you found out you matched?  

Dr. Kulshreshtha: Hearing I matched was exciting and an incredible relief. It was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it was an honor to be selected for my residency position. I felt grateful and humbled by the opportunity and proud of myself for achieving this goal. It was a surreal moment that I will never forget.

SGU: What was your experience during the match process? How did the Office of Career Guidance (OCG) help you during that time?

Dr. Kulshreshtha: The match process was nerve-wracking, but the Office of Career Guidance provided excellent support and guidance. They helped me select the right programs to apply for, provided advice on preparing for interviews, and even gave me feedback on my application materials. The OCG team was always available to answer my questions and provided me with the resources I needed to be successful in the match process. I couldn’t have done it without their support.

SGU: Why did you choose to pursue family medicine?

Dr. Kulshreshtha: I pursued family medicine because of its broad application and the opportunity to apply diverse skills and knowledge to daily medical practice. Family medicine allows me to work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, and to develop long-term relationships with my patients. It is an incredibly rewarding specialty, and I am excited to begin a residency in this field.

SGU: What are your ultimate career aspirations? 

Dr. Kulshreshtha: My ultimate career aspiration is to work as a physician in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Pursuing a career in family medicine can help me achieve this aspiration, as family physicians provide comprehensive medical care to patients in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

As I gain experience and develop my skills as a physician, I plan to specialize further and tailor my practice to meet the needs of my patients. I am excited to work towards achieving my career goals and positively impacting the health and well-being of my patients.

SGU: What was studying in Grenada like? 

Dr. Kulshreshtha: I felt Grenada was an excellent study destination. The teaching quality was high, and excellent student support services were available. I was also impressed by the beautiful scenery and facilities, such as the simulation lab. Additionally, the 24/7 security provided a secure environment for me to study and live during my time there.

SGU: How did SGU help you with your academic achievements and USMLE preparation? 

Dr. Kulshreshtha: Overall, SGU offered me many resources and support systems to help me achieve my academic goals and prepare for the USMLE.

I found the Department of Education Services (DES) especially helpful. DES provides students with academic support services such as tutoring, academic coaching, and study resources. The DES also offers workshops and seminars on various study techniques and exam-taking strategies.

In preparation of the USMLE Step 1, I took advantage of SGU’s comprehensive USMLE review program, including online resources, practice exams, and question banks. Furthermore, during clinical program in my third and fourth year, I gained hands-on clinical experience which was valuable for Step 2 preparation.

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

Dr. Kulshreshtha: Balancing work and life can be challenging, but it is important to prioritize self-care and set boundaries. I have found it helpful to identify my priorities and allocate my time accordingly. I make sure to prioritize my physical and mental health and to make time for my family and friends. Additionally, I have found that setting clear boundaries and communicating my needs with colleagues and seniors is important for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

SGU: What advice would you give to students (especially international students) who are coming to Grenada for the first time?

Dr. Kulshreshtha: I would offer the following advice to students who are coming to Grenada for the first time:

• Grenada has a unique culture. Take the time to learn about the local customs, food, and traditions.
• Connect with fellow students and locals. Building connections with other students and locals is an excellent way to learn about the island and make the most of your time in Grenada.
• Stay organized and manage your time effectively. Medical school can be demanding, and it’s important to stay on top of your studies and manage your time effectively. Create a schedule and stick to it.
• Take advantage of the resources and support available. SGU offers many resources and support systems to help students succeed academically and socially. Take advantage of these resources and seek help when you need it.
• Grenada is a beautiful island with many things to see and do. Take the time to explore the island and experience all it offers.

SGU: Why would you recommend SGU to aspiring physicians?

Dr. Kulshreshtha: Yes! I would like to highlight the strong sense of community and support I experienced at SGU. The faculty and staff are dedicated to helping students succeed, and the student body is supportive and collaborative. The opportunities for hands-on clinical experience, combined with the rigorous academic curriculum, have prepared me well for my future medical career. I am grateful for the education and experiences that SGU has provided me and would highly recommend the university to anyone considering a medical career.

David Benjamin Joseph, MD ’23, has been immersed in the world of medicine from an early age. Growing up in a rural area, his father served as a physician for a small, tight-knit community. Witnessing his father’s dedication to providing healthcare to underserved communities deeply inspired him. The values his family and community raised him with further solidified his appreciation for supporting vulnerable populations through healthcare

“My intention to become a doctor was deeply rooted in my upbringing, personal experiences, and academic pursuits,” Dr. Joseph said. “SGU played a crucial role in facilitating my journey towards this goal through its comprehensive medical education program, supportive community, and emphasis on clinical excellence. The university provided the necessary resources, guidance, and opportunities for me to succeed in achieving my dream of becoming a physician dedicated to serving underserved communities.”

Learn more about Dr. Joseph’s SGU experience and his advice for aspiring physicians.

SGU: What did it feel like to match into residency? 

Dr. Joseph: Matching for residency was an overwhelming experience filled with mixed emotions. It was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. There was certainly excitement and relief knowing that I had secured a pathway to further my medical training and fulfil my dream of becoming a practicing physician.

SGU: What was your experience during the match process? How did SGU’s Office of Career Guidance help you? 

Dr. Joseph: The match process was challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. SGU’s Office of Career Guidance helped me present myself effectively to residency programs and ultimately secure a position that aligned with my career goals.

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

Dr. Joseph: My passion for family medicine stems from a combination of personal experiences and professional exposure from clinical rotations in underserved areas in Chicago at Humboldt Park Health. I envision making a meaningful impact by providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to underserved communities, advocating for preventive medicine, and addressing healthcare disparities.

SGU: What are your long-term career aspirations within the field of medicine?

Dr. Joseph: In the long term, I aspire to continue serving underserved communities as a dedicated family physician, while also pursuing opportunities for leadership, advocacy, and medical education. I aim to contribute to improving healthcare access, promoting health equity, and inspiring future generations of healthcare professionals.

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

Dr. Joseph: SGU played a significant role in my academic success and preparation for the USMLE exams. The rigorous curriculum provided me with a solid foundation of medical knowledge. Additionally, SGU’s emphasis on clinical rotations and hands-on experience equipped me with practical skills essential for residency training and beyond.

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

Dr. Joseph: Living in Grenada was a transformative experience. The vibrant culture, stunning natural landscapes, and supportive community created a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. Highlights were the opportunity to immerse myself in a diverse medical school, serve in the campus Christian Student Association, contribute to the Grenadian community, and gain valuable insights into global healthcare challenges.

SGU: What is your advice to students to maintain a healthy mental well-being?

Dr. Joseph: My advice to students is to prioritize self-care, establish boundaries, seek support when needed, and engage in activities outside of medicine that bring joy and fulfillment.

SGU: What advice would you offer to aspiring medical students?

Dr. Joseph: To aspiring medical students, I would offer the advice to embrace your unique experiences, cultivate resilience, and pursue your passion for medicine with determination. Seek out mentors, seize opportunities for growth, and never underestimate the power of your own journey in shaping your future success.

Otis Zeon, MD ’17, grew up in a refugee camp in West Africa where life was marked by famine, disease, and drought. From an early age, he had a fascination with science. In the camp, traveling doctors and medical groups from different parts of the world would often visit to provide medical care and offer education. Witnessing their work sparked his interest in medicine, and his passion grew from that point onward.

The doctors who provided medical care in the refugee camp were mostly family medicine doctors. After learning more about this field, Dr. Zeon wholeheartedly believed that primary care providers, particularly family medicine physicians, hold the keys to community health improvements, education, and healthcare policymaking. By focusing on family medicine, Dr. Zeon aims to make a significant impact on the overall well-being of communities.

After 10 years in the refugee camp, Dr. Zeon and his family relocated to Minnesota in the US, where he could further his passion for helping others through medicine. SGU News sat down with Dr. Zeon to learn more about his journey and how SGU helped him reach his goals.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched into residency?

Dr. Zeon: I had a non-traditional path to medical school and residency. Initially, I did not match into a residency program. After working on my application, I secured my top choice in residency. I am happy to be setting an example for my family, my community, and, most importantly, my children.

SGU: What was your experience during the match process? How did SGU’s Office of Career Guidance (OCG) help you during that time?

Dr. Zeon: SGU’s Office of Career Guidance (OCG) provided me with several options for alternative career paths in case I did not secure a residency match. They also helped me identify and address gaps in my application, strengthening it to make me a more competitive candidate. I completed my MBA in multi-sector healthcare in December 2023, and two months later, I matched into my top choice residency program.

SGU: Where did you intend to become a doctor? How did SGU contribute to your success?

Dr. Zeon: I have always wanted to live in California, and I am blessed to have matched in a city like Los Angeles and to be part of this community. SGU’s advice helped me improve my application. I accepted a teaching position in Los Angeles and eventually matched in the affiliated family medicine program. Without passing all my step exams, improving my application, it wouldn’t have been possible for me to match. 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. I also plan to spend part of my time practicing medicine in less developed countries to pay it forward, ensuring that others have access to the care and opportunities that have been so transformative in my own life.

SGU: What are your long-term career aspirations within the field of medicine?

Dr. Zeon: In the long term, I plan on practicing medicine in my community here in Los Angeles and teaching or precepting the next generation of medical students. I would also like to contribute to health IT by developing user-friendly healthcare products, software, hardware, and education programs.

SGU: What is your advice to students to maintain a healthy mental well-being?

Dr. Zeon: For any young person aspiring to achieve something great, temporary sacrifices and absolute focus are essential. There will always be time to enjoy other aspects of life, especially in a rewarding field like medicine. The best thing you can do as a student is maintain absolute focus. Minimize distractions and find a study companion with the same level of focus.

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

Dr. Zeon: 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. I especially enjoyed the barbecues and mangos. The island provides a healthy isolation from distractions, allowing you to focus on pursuing your education.

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

Dr. Zeon: I have already advised several students who are currently at SGU. SGU prepared me well, so I would advise staying focused and absorbing as much knowledge as possible. Finish your time on the island strong and perform well on your board exams. Finally, during your rotations, stick to one general location and truly get to know the team, the program director, and other attendings who can write you strong letters of recommendation for residency.