Hoping to start medical school this September? Let us tell you that the first week of your Caribbean medical school is a mixture of anticipation and excitement, coupled with nerve-wracking pangs of “what did I get myself into”. You may read up all you want about the medical school you’re planning to attend and its curriculum, but the reality only creeps in when you set foot on the campus. In the period between getting accepted into med school and starting your first semester, your mind must be buzzing with a million questions. At Windsor university School of medicine, we believe in preparing our students beforehand of what their typical day would look like as they enter the medical arena, so that they don’t feel overwhelmed during their first week. Here’s what a first-year student at WUSOM can expect, from transitioning into a Caribbean medical school to first-semester coursework and schedule.
Typical First Week of a Student at Windsor University School of Medicine
When you arrive at the picturesque island of St-Kitts for your first week at WINDSOR, you’ll settle into your new abode at the fully furnished apartments located close to campus or take up a student room at the Royal St. Kitts Beach Hotel, Sugar Bay Resort, or the Bird Rock Beach Hotel. All our accommodation options are situated at safe and secure areas that are only a 20–25-minute drive away from our St. Kitts campus. This makes it convenient for you to join a fitness center, dine at the finest restaurants and cafes, buy your groceries or go to the medical clinic and pharmacy all within a short distance.
The first week of medical school is an opportunity for great learning, exploration, and stimulation. During the first week at the Windsor university school of medicine, you will be starting your classes and warming up for life as a doctor-in-training. Our faculty will arrange an orientation event before the first day of medical school, to introduce students to the expectations and responsibilities of the medical profession and familiarize them with their program, curriculum, faculty, school campus, etc. The orientation activities are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their new environment. Our highly supportive academic staff offers training and personal support throughout your time at WUSOM.
Toward the end of your first week, you’ll attend the white coat ceremony, an event that marks the official beginning of your transition to being a doctor-in-training; or rather an induction into the noble calling of medicine. During the ceremony, you will don the white coat, signifying your entrance into the medical profession. You’ll hear from keynote speakers about the significance of wearing the white coat and close the ceremony by reciting an oath with your fellow classmates.
Caribbean Medical School; The Beginning of your Medical Education
While the first week at your Caribbean medical school is often spent settling in, attending orientation activities and getting to know your classmates, what happens next? Once your formal classes start, you will begin coursework in earnest. A better part of your first semester is spent on foundational classes that offer a mix of both basic science and clinical science courses. The proverbial “drinking from a fire hose” holds true for medical students, as you will be required to study the physiological, anatomical, and biochemical processes of an organ system all at once, giving you a solid comprehension of how all these organs work harmoniously. You will also get to grips with anatomy, so expect to spend time in the lab, often working with cadavers, to understand organs, muscles, bones, and how they all connect. During your first semester, you will also brush up on histology, the microscopic structure of tissues. Students learn to use microscopes and identify different types of cells and tissues.
A key part of WUSOM’s teaching philosophy involves early hands-on learning so that you can put what you’ve learned into practice. WUSOM has the tools to get you working with patients in weeks, not months. Our hands-on learning approach ensures that students gain essential clinical skills and real-world knowledge through a combination of classroom work, clinical skills training, standardized patient cases, and small-group learning activities, all of which will prepare you for future clinical rotations. Early on, our students start learning basic clinical skills such as taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and developing communication skills with patients. Our state-of-the art Simulation Lab enables students to safely learn and practice key clinical skills on life-like mannequins, without actually having to deal with a real patient.
WUSOM students benefit from a close-knit community characterized by small class sizes, and attentive and accessible faculty. Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to provide a solid foundation in medical sciences, clinical skills, and ethical practice. Our students benefit from integrated Learning, expert Faculty, and research Opportunities.
Surviving your First Week at Medical School? Tips from Fellow WUSOM Students
Stay Organized: “Medical school can be a whirlwind of lectures, labs, and assignments. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of your schedule and deadlines. This will help you manage your time effectively.”
Take It One Day at a Time: “The amount of information can feel daunting. Break it down into manageable chunks and focus on what needs to be done each day.”
Get to Know Your Classmates: “Your peers are your best allies. Form study groups, share notes, and support each other. Building a strong network can make a huge difference.”
Ask Questions: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you don’t understand something. Professors, teaching assistants, and fellow students are there to help you succeed.”
Stay Healthy: “It’s easy to neglect your health with a busy schedule, but make sure to eat well, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep. Exercise can also help reduce stress and keep you focused.”
Find a Study Routine: “Experiment with different study techniques to find what works best for you. Some students prefer flashcards, others like to summarize notes or teach concepts to a friend.”
Take Breaks: “Don’t forget to take regular breaks to recharge. Short breaks during study sessions can actually improve your concentration and retention.”
Explore Campus Resources: “Familiarize yourself with the library, study areas, and any academic support services available. These resources can be incredibly valuable throughout your studies.”
Stay Positive: “Keep a positive attitude and remind yourself why you chose to pursue medicine. It’s a challenging journey, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.”
Relax and Have Fun: “Balance is key. Make sure to take time for activities you enjoy and socialize with friends. It’s important to relax and de-stress.”
Feeling Nervous?
It is perfectly ok to feel overwhelmed thinking about your first week at medical school. Your first week at a Caribbean medical school may seem nerve-racking, but at the Windsor University school of medicine, you will have the support of faculty, staff, and your colleagues to meet the challenges that lie ahead. To start your medical journey at WUSOM, click here to apply for our upcoming September session.
