October 9, 2024

Two Healthcare Systems, Two Worlds: A Physician’s Journey from the U.S. to Canada

The world of medicine may seem unified in its pursuit of health and healing, but the healthcare systems in which doctors operate couldn’t be more different. The contrast between privatized and nationalized healthcare isn’t just theoretical—it’s real, and it’s shaping the careers of doctors and the lives of their patients in profound ways. Dr. Ivan Escudero, an alumnus of the St. James School of Medicine, experienced this contrast firsthand. Having…

READ MORE
September 13, 2024

Two Healthcare Systems, One Doctor’s Story with Dr. Ivan Escudero – NEW Podcast Episode

From navigating the red tape in the U.S. to tackling patient shortages in Canada, Dr. Ivan Escudero’s journey is a crash course in healthcare extremes. Ever wondered what it’s like balancing two systems? Dive into his story, where every decision could mean the difference between life-saving care and waiting lists. Get a unique behind-the-scenes look at the real-life struggles and triumphs that shaped his career across borders. WATCH ON YOUTUBE…

READ MORE
September 13, 2024

Settling into St. Vincent: Essential Tips for New SJSM Students

Starting your medical journey at SJSM is more than just a move—it’s the beginning of an incredible adventure on the beautiful island of St. Vincent. But let’s be real: the transition can be daunting if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re heading to the bustling community of St. Vincent, we’ve got you covered with all the essentials you need to know before you pack your bags. Finding the Perfect Place to…

READ MORE
August 30, 2024

Balancing Success: Study Strategies and Life Lessons from Dr. Shaan Patel

Imagine the pressure of medical school—the endless hours of studying, the constant exams, and the feeling that there’s always more to learn. It’s a journey that can feel overwhelming, but it’s also one filled with opportunity. At Saint James School of Medicine, students are no strangers to this challenge. Fortunately, there are strategies that can make this journey not only manageable but successful. Dr. Shaan Patel, a board-certified dermatologist and…

READ MORE
August 19, 2024

From Childhood Dreams to Residency Matches: Two Remarkable Journeys at SJSM

Becoming a doctor is rarely a straight path, and at Saint James School of Medicine, we understand that each journey is as unique as the students who walk it. Today, we’re excited to share the stories of Shivani and Naveed, two recent graduates who didn’t just overcome challenges—they embraced them. Their paths to pre-matching into their desired residency programs in the U.S. are filled with determination, resilience, and a few…

READ MORE
May 24, 2024

Med School Journey: Overcoming Adversities and Achieving Success

Embarking on a medical journey is never easy, but the challenges faced by Dr. Yaya Besong are truly remarkable. As the first physician in her family and the youngest of seven children, Dr. Besong’s path was paved with both support and adversity. With the financial backing of her siblings, she enrolled in St. James School of Medicine, determined to honor their investment and fulfill her dream. The Early Struggles Dr.…

READ MORE
April 30, 2024

From Clinical Practice to Empowering Future Physicians: The Journey of Dr. Stavros Vouyiouklis

Dr. Stavros Vouyiouklis, born and raised in New York, has charted an unconventional yet impactful path in the medical field. After completing an undergraduate degree in biochemistry at Manhattan College and obtaining his MD from the Leavitt School of St. James, Dr. Vouyiouklis ventured beyond the traditional clinical route to embrace a career that merges medicine with education and entrepreneurship. Early Realizations and Career Shift While preparing for his board…

READ MORE
April 10, 2024

Navigating the Residency Match: What we learned from the 2024 MATCH Cycle

The journey to becoming a practicing physician in the United States is arduous and culminates in a pivotal moment known as the residency match. This complex process, crucial for medical students completing their education and transitioning into residency training, involves a series of steps designed to pair graduating medical students with residency programs across the country. International Medical Graduates (IMGs), including those from Caribbean medical schools, engage in this competitive…

READ MORE
February 29, 2024

Black History Month: Empowering Diversity in Surgical Fields

Amidst the vibrant celebration of Black History Month, let’s plunge into a pivotal chat about diversity, carving its space in the intricate world of surgical specialties. This reflection goes beyond the historical nods, zooming in on the ups and downs, dreams, and achievements within the surgical realm. At the heart of this journey is the crucial role of mentorship—an absolute game-changer for career navigation and a spark for diversity. The…

READ MORE
February 14, 2024

Navigating Residency: A Comparative Exploration of Medical Training in the US and Canada

Embarking on the journey of medical residency is a pivotal moment for aspiring physicians, especially for Canadian medical graduates. The decision to pursue residency in the United States or Canada adds a layer of complexity to their career path. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll delve into critical aspects of the residency experience in both countries, with a focus on the unique considerations for Canadian medical students from Caribbean medical schools.…

READ MORE