I'm leaving St. George to go to...

[flowers779]

NOTE: USER IS AN SMU STUDENT WHO HAS CREATED BOGUS ACCOUNT. THIS IS A FALSE STORY: USER HAS SEVERAL OTHER KNOWN ACCOUNTS AND IS BEING INVESTIGATED

I will be going to St. Matthews University school of medicine (SMU).

I have decided that I will no longer be staying at St. Georges university (SGU). The administration there has been lack luster to say the least. The class sizes are huuuuge and the amount of personal attention you get from them is nil.

The faculty is ok...nothing special. The only thing holding them afloat at this point is their reputation over the years. The only reason they have that rep is b/c they pump out medical students into the cores each semester which is expected considering your class can have 300 students in it.

I'd say 10% attrition rate is reasonable and about 30% fail step 1 the 1st time yet students continue to apply...beats the heck out of me.
There pass rate has been ove-inflated through the semesters Ive been there. Some have said the pass rate was as low as 65%, but again there is no way to verify.

The island is a slum. It is a true 3rd world country. I can not handle such an environment (although I hear SABA is even worse).

All in all my grades were ok...low 80's...but the collective punishment of all these factors made me consider moving to a "better school." I did my research and SMU had all the right tools and seemingly high satisfaction among students and so I will be transferring to SMU this January.

[charger5001]

Well...im sorry to hear about your experience at SGU. I will say you have made a very smart decision choosing SMU as your new home. We have quite a number of transfer students from AUC, MUA and Ross.

You will be thoroughly impressed with the teachers, faculty, staff and currciulum. It is first rate. Considering you were a fairly good student, if you maintain that discipline over here you should be ok to go.

With all the exciting news in the past few weeks and the high scores on boards I dont see why every student doesnt transfer to SMU....just my opinion b/c I love it here.

[anencephalic]

The island is a slum. It is a true 3rd world country. I can not handle such an environment (although I hear SABA is even worse).


Saba is not a slum. In fact, it is probably one of the most beautiful and scenic islands I've been to and truly deserves its' moniker "The Unspoiled Queen". If you mean it's third world because it doesn't have the conveniences like WalMart, mega malls, shopping, etc, then by your definition, you'd be correct. However, it has so much to offer in terms of outdoor activities such as diving and hiking.


I'm sorry SGU didn't work out for you and hope that you enjoy the Caymans more than Grenada.

Aloha,

[skidoc42]

I will be going to St. Matthews University school of medicine (SMU).

I have decided that I will no longer be staying at St. Georges university (SGU). The administration there has been lack luster to say the least. The class sizes are huuuuge and the amount of personal attention you get from them is nil.

The faculty is ok...nothing special. The only thing holding them afloat at this point is their reputation over the years. The only reason they have that rep is b/c they pump out medical students into the cores each semester which is expected considering your class can have 300 students in it.

I'd say 10% attrition rate is reasonable and about 30% fail step 1 the 1st time yet students continue to apply...beats the heck out of me.
There pass rate has been ove-inflated through the semesters Ive been there. Some have said the pass rate was as low as 65%, but again there is no way to verify.

The island is a slum. It is a true 3rd world country. I can not handle such an environment (although I hear SABA is even worse).

All in all my grades were ok...low 80's...but the collective punishment of all these factors made me consider moving to a "better school." I did my research and SMU had all the right tools and seemingly high satisfaction among students and so I will be transferring to SMU this January.

Welcome aboard...see you here on Cayman sometime in the near future.

skidoc42 ;)

[Scott1981]

pretty bitter towards a school that gave you a chance...........

[MDPhD]

Good look at SMU. However, sorry to hear that in med school you need such type of attention. Med school is based on adult education system and requires you to make your own efforts vs relying so much on the faculty.

[AUCMD2006]

of course no one transfers for academic reasons....hehehe
its good that you put up your experience with the school, some with weaker sensibilities shoudl shy away from the 3rd world. i would say that if you have the drive to truly do this then it wouldn't matter where you are for 20 months out of a 50 year carreer but some people want things on their own terms and that is cool too.

whatever the reason good luck at smu

[Dynasty]

You made an excellent choice by tansferring to SMU. SMU, unlike many other Caribbean medical school is highly developed. You will not regret you descion. I am glad that you finally found the "better school" of your dreams.

[onesolo]

Welcome to the SMU family

[stephew]

while your decision to change schools if youre not pleased is perfectly reasonable, i have to say that you are incorrect with regard to the usmle pass rates. the pass rates are very well documented and valididated at sgu. no one can argue with your personal experience or feelings about the school, but please do not spread incorrect information.

[hyloran]

Do u think they would give me your place at SGU? ;)

[dawgfan]

Welcome to SMU. I'll see you there in Jan.

[Gavanshir]

Have you decided on your next school yet?

I'll be looking for the thread.

[stephew]

Have you decided on your next school yet?

I'll be looking for the thread.kindly refrain from flamming others.

[sbturner]

Welcome, welcome, welcome!! We love having you here; your presence will certainly enrich our school! :p :p I truly believe you will love St. Matthew's School of Medicine. It is simply the best medical school in the world!:D Let the pessimists say what they will; their opinion means absolutely nothing. SMU is #1! End of story. We look forward to having another great student join our wonderful school! You are going to be sensational here! Best wishes!:p :p

[XLNC]

Ill take your spot ay SGU anyday!

Im not sure how valid this thread is, seems like some propaganda to me!!

[onesolo]

Ill take your spot ay SGU anyday!

Im not sure how valid this thread is, seems like some propaganda to me!!

Just curious of why you feel that way?

[XLNC]

why would some1 post this thread?
The person obviously knows SGU is a much better school, the bottom line is this, they have more rotations and more opturnities when it comes to obtaining licenses around the states, and thats what matters!

Not how bad living conditions are, how bad administration is, you have to rough it up.

[stephew]

Ill take your spot ay SGU anyday!

Im not sure how valid this thread is, seems like some propaganda to me!! one person's feelings are exactly that and perfectly ok to post- the use of the forum comes when taking these in totum. one extreme negative or unbridaled positive is typically seen for what it is and in context.

[onesolo]

why would some1 post this thread?
The person obviously knows SGU is a much better school, the bottom line is this, they have more rotations and more opturnities when it comes to obtaining licenses around the states, and thats what matters!

Not how bad living conditions are, how bad administration is, you have to rough it up.

I would agree that everyone has their own opinion on this matter and mine may not be in agreement with the previous posters however, what's a deciding factor for one individual is not for another. I was accepted to SGU and myself decided to attend SMU as well. Now that's a valid point and a TRUE post. Do I feel as if SMU is the best school in the carrib? well not exactly but it's fastly approaching it. For me, living conditions were a big factor in my decision on what school to attend. People must realize that there are HUGE outside factors that weigh heavily on an individual as well. Just as these carrib schools take the "whole" application into consideration when deciding on who they take and who they don't, we as applicants need to take the "whole" school into consideration when we make our decision on which school to choose from. Some people can easily make it in a remote location while others will have a hard time. Just as for some people the sounds of the subtle birds chirping in the lonely woods is a sign of peace and relaxation.... For me it's anxiety and troublesome.

[onesolo]

Honestly though...... the tuition at SGU had ALOT to do with my decision on not going there...... If it were the same as Ross or SMU then ..... Hmmmm :| Well I won't finish that sentence cause then I'll have to re-submit my previous post.

[jerry collins]

You may be making a mistake by going to a school not approved by california. I suspect that other states will adopt california standards and you will not be able to get a license. Did you look at AUC or SABA ,both approved by Cali.? The islands are nice as well. Good luck.

[bchamp1281]

Welcome to SMU.

You should find yourself right at home with the developed island and such. For me personally it has been a great ride thus far. The staff has been helpful and the workload has been demanding but I feel like the education I am getting is great.

Again...I think you have made a good decision...see you soon.

[onesolo]

You may be making a mistake by going to a school not approved by california. I suspect that other states will adopt california standards and you will not be able to get a license. Did you look at AUC or SABA ,both approved by Cali.? The islands are nice as well. Good luck.

Your right, other States may adopt the Cali. standards however, that's highly unlikely. I truly researched SGU, Ross, AUC, MUA, and SMU for almost 2 years (some longer than others). I contacted the states that I'm personally interested in practicing in and since the Cali. disapproval have contacted them again. The consenus is that there is no reason for these states to follow the Cali. standards. If you take into consideration the majority vs the minority then Cali. (and Vermont) fall in the minority. Is Cali. important? Yeah, for some it is however, I'm not worried about other states following suit.

[AUCMD2006]

i chose auc based on location and tuition too b/c i thought it would matter....it turned out that so much of your time is spent studying that it wouldn't have mattered if i was in mars and as far as cost, going-
to sgu will end up as roughly an extra $60-100 per month on your paycheck so out of the at least $12,000 per month will $60 bones make a dent?

i got into the bigger 3 plus SMU, although i am happy with auc and have had a very positive experience if i had known now about how little impact location and cost had on me i would have probably gone to SGU. let me say this again, i am perfectly happy with auc, i think it is a great program and woudl recommend it to anyone but if i knew nothing about it and location/cost were no issue based solely on rep i would have probably ended up ay sgu.

i don't think most states can adopt a standard as strict as california. for lack of a better word the less desireable residencies that go unfilled by Us grads can not survive without us. while yale and harvard will never have a hard time filling slots, community and rural programs would close without the influx of our grads so they will probably adopt something milder than the cali probably closer to NY...unless lou dobs starts in again ranting and raving about all them damn foreigners.....

[charger5001]

HAHA - your right lou dobbs does rant to much about the number of foreigners now if only we built more fences to "secure our borders" lol

[Surge]

Transfering may come back to haunt you when you apply for residency. What are you going to say at your interviews that sounds believable when they ask you why you transferred from one Caribbean school to another (especially to one that is officially disapproved by a U.S. state)?

[flowers779]

Enough telling me how great SGU is. I am am telling you first hand it is not. I am a student who was doing relatively well and am telling the ValueMD world and whomever else asks that SGU is not close to what people make it out to be.

I am leaving SGU not for any other reason than the factw that the students DO NOT come first there, some shady information is passed around and the island was wearing on me.

I am upset how so many students come to SGU thinking it is the Harvard of the carribean and then get thrown into reality that the school is no different than many others and in fact inferior in many respects. As stated I was a B average student that worked very hard but SGU to me was nothing that I had expected it to be.

I am excited to begin a new chapter at SMU which on valueMD was rated the best rated carribean school by the students and speaking to students and staff really swayed me.

I look forward to meeting you all....thanks for the warm welcome.

[onesolo]

Transfering may come back to haunt you when you apply for residency. What are you going to say at your interviews that sounds believable when they ask you why you transferred from one Caribbean school to another (especially to one that is officially disapproved by a U.S. state)?

I personally would say put more concern on how well you do on the step than on what school you've attended. Cause though transfering "MAY" come back to haunt you...... Rocking the Step will "SURELY" open their eyes to your educational abilities no matter what Caribbean school you've attended.

[swimguy23]

I personally would say put more concern on how well you do on the step than on what school you've attended. Cause though transfering "MAY" come back to haunt you...... Rocking the Step will "SURELY" open their eyes to your educational abilities no matter what Caribbean school you've attended.

good point.....i think it needs to be pointed out tho that most people who transfer schools dont rock the boards tho.....im sure there are some that do but they are probably the outliers of the bell curve

[onesolo]

I would agree with that. Most people transfer due to academic reasons.

[Surge]

I personally would say put more concern on how well you do on the step than on what school you've attended. Cause though transfering "MAY" come back to haunt you...... Rocking the Step will "SURELY" open their eyes to your educational abilities no matter what Caribbean school you've attended.

It doesn't matter how you do on the USMLE, they're still going to ask for an explanation why they transfered. They will want to know exactly why the student went from one Caribbean school to another Caribbean school.

[AUCMD2006]

exactly, transfering throws up red flags all over the place and in the 2% chance that it is not academic then it goes towards moral character, psychological stability, possible problems interacting with others, and any other scenario you may wanna throw in there, look at it from their perspective, if you couldn't hack it in basic science in one place more than a few months, how will you handle years of residency?....how do i know this? had a "mock-interview" night at our hospital with the PD's of the residencies answered q's one of them was how they view transfers and this was the answer along with accross the board negative facial expressions.....

i don't think anyone is disputing your opinion or experience with sgu, most things that are hyped up set you up for disappointment just be aware of what you will have to explain later on just like a failed class in undergrad, you most likely will get asked about it during a med school interview right?

i would urge you to get a letter of referrence from a professor there stating that you have a good rapport, work ethic etc to take with you to residency interviews.....

also internet reputation and subjective experiences of students are good but can not repalce a 20 year track record. good luck at smu

[MDPhD]

right decision

Enough telling me how great SGU is. I am am telling you first hand it is not. I am a student who was doing relatively well and am telling the ValueMD world and whomever else asks that SGU is not close to what people make it out to be.

I am leaving SGU not for any other reason than the factw that the students DO NOT come first there, some shady information is passed around and the island was wearing on me.

I am upset how so many students come to SGU thinking it is the Harvard of the carribean and then get thrown into reality that the school is no different than many others and in fact inferior in many respects. As stated I was a B average student that worked very hard but SGU to me was nothing that I had expected it to be.

I am excited to begin a new chapter at SMU which on valueMD was rated the best rated carribean school by the students and speaking to students and staff really swayed me.

I look forward to meeting you all....thanks for the warm welcome.


I am not sure you are a student at SGU or are you making up stories. If you don't think SGU is the Harvard of the carribean, then you are mistaken. May be you will realize it after a few years.

[swimguy23]

I am not sure you are a student at SGU or are you making up stories. If you don't think SGU is the Harvard of the carribean, then you are mistaken. May be you will realize it after a few years.

im sorry i just find it so funny when people refer to a school as the harvard of the caribbean.....it reminds me of a saved by the bell episode when they hire that actor to get zach to go to the stanford of the east or whatever.....there is no harvard of the caribbean.....there are better schools and worse schools.....you dont hear anyone in the states saying "we;re the SGU of new england" or the "AUC of the midwest" or the Ross of the south

[sgu08]

if you did attend SGU,

who were the professors in the classes you supposedly took?

[ol' man]

I am not sure you are a student at SGU or are you making up stories. If you don't think SGU is the Harvard of the carribean, then you are mistaken. May be you will realize it after a few years.

Maybe they mistook the SMU-Harvard affiliation for SGU? lol

[stephew]

im sorry i just find it so funny when people refer to a school as the harvard of the caribbean.....it reminds me of a saved by the bell episode when they hire that actor to get zach to go to the stanford of the east or whatever.....there is no harvard of the caribbean.....there are better schools and worse schools.....you dont hear anyone in the states saying "we;re the SGU of new england" or the "AUC of the midwest" or the Ross of the southactually, im teaching at harvard and i always call it the sgu of boston. the students are usually fairly amused.

[stephew]

if you did attend SGU,

who were the professors in the classes you supposedly took?please, noproper names on this board. its against terms of use.

and folks, you have the right to ask your questions but kindly DO NOT flamer other users. they also have a right to post here without being harrassed. and if you dont agree, well its terms of service anyway.

[swimguy23]

actually, im teaching at harvard and i always call it the sgu of boston. the students are usually fairly amused.

well once they advertise themselves as the sgu of boston......heck they cant even pronounce car right

[stephew]

well once they advertise themselves as the sgu of boston......heck they cant even pronounce car rightthis is true. they're so funny. they think its "Cool!" that i went inthe caribbean. Or probably jus tpolite. they are soooooo young.

[swimguy23]

this is true. they're so funny. they think its "Cool!" that i went inthe caribbean. Or probably jus tpolite. they are soooooo young.

im only 24 and i got called sir today.....i still get carded going into rated R movies.....maybe its a new england thing where us boys look so young

[onesolo]

It doesn't matter how you do on the USMLE, they're still going to ask for an explanation why they transfered. They will want to know exactly why the student went from one Caribbean school to another Caribbean school.

I didn't say that you won't get asked about it.... What I said is that it's MORE important to rock the step then it is to stay at a school that's not cutting it for you. As stated, you are asked about previous failures when interviewing for medical school just as you'll be asked about your transfer when interviewing for a residency. However, if your unable to do well on the step then it really doesn't matter if you transfer or not. If you rock the step and you've transferred then you have that on your side just as if you fail O'chem your first time around then get an "A" your second time around. That "A" is still on your side.

As for SGU being the Harvard of the Caribbean....... GET REAL! Well let's see..... I guess you can say that it is ONLY because it was the first one around just as Harvard was the first one around. Other than that, I don't consider it the best in the Caribbean and many other people don't either. SGU and Harvard should NEVER be mentioned in the same breath.

[GoodDoc]

I will be going to St. Matthews University school of medicine (SMU).

I have decided that I will no longer be staying at St. Georges university (SGU). The administration there has been lack luster to say the least. The class sizes are huuuuge and the amount of personal attention you get from them is nil.

The faculty is ok...nothing special. The only thing holding them afloat at this point is their reputation over the years. The only reason they have that rep is b/c they pump out medical students into the cores each semester which is expected considering your class can have 300 students in it.

I'd say 10% attrition rate is reasonable and about 30% fail step 1 the 1st time yet students continue to apply...beats the heck out of me.
There pass rate has been ove-inflated through the semesters Ive been there. Some have said the pass rate was as low as 65%, but again there is no way to verify.

The island is a slum. It is a true 3rd world country. I can not handle such an environment (although I hear SABA is even worse).

All in all my grades were ok...low 80's...but the collective punishment of all these factors made me consider moving to a "better school." I did my research and SMU had all the right tools and seemingly high satisfaction among students and so I will be transferring to SMU this January.

I'm supporting your decision. God bless you!

[TTUmed]

kindly steph, do you work at all? i'd love to be in your specialty....it seems like you have quite a bit of free time to moderate this forum. ;)

[teratos]

It doesn't matter how you do on the USMLE, they're still going to ask for an explanation why they transfered. They will want to know exactly why the student went from one Caribbean school to another Caribbean school.

If you aren't "cutting it" at one school, how much difference is a transfer going to make?

[MDXRS22]

Just do whatever you feel is good for you! Your future is in your own hands, and don't let me or anyone else pitch in...
Just be your own man :confused: or woman;)

[swimguy23]

Just do whatever you feel is good for you! Your future is in your own hands, and don't let me or anyone else pitch in...
Just be your own man :confused: or woman;)

if you dont want anyone else to pitch in why would you post your plans on a public forum?

[MDXRS22]

if you dont want anyone else to pitch in why would you post your plans on a public forum?
That's venting personal fustration!
By the way, pitching in has nothing to do with holding over... which means, you can always voice your opinion in a conversation, and one may as well let it blow off like hot air coming out of a balloon. :rolleyes:

[Happydoc66]

PLEASE NOTE: THIS USER IS NOT AN SGU STUDENT- S/HE IS AN SMU STUDENT POSTING AS A STUDENT FROM ANOTHER SCHOOL.

I know who you are flowers... you have a lot of courage posting out here for all to see cinsidering many of us at SGU are aware of your displeasure with the school. I will say this...you are not alone. In fact I have done some reasearch about SMU in the past and have also been looking into the possibility of transferring.

....Ross seems to have too many issues. AUC students have been grunting lately and SABA...well I cant live on that island considering i can barely live here

BTW we are both 3rd semesters but by the time we finish here we would be in 4th when we transfer.

...there are many short commings at SGU including the cunning, rude and arrogant students who are probably found in every school and just like every student in the class: we hate these people. They give medical students a bad name.

...the fail rate is about 10-15% so your attrition score is not so far off.

... the profs arent anything special . your right. I wish we had smaller classes, but I knew comming here I would be with man studets

....Many of us are looking to practice on the east coast so the California issue in some schools doesnt matter.

Again I admire your courage. I am sure many in students in school will harass you for it but het you got the word out that there probably are "better schools" to learn at for your basic science career. I wish you well on your journey. Keep your head up and strive for excellence.

[stephew]

I

...there are many short commings at SGU including the cunning, rude and arrogant students who are probably found in every school and just like every student in the class: we hate these people. They give medical students a bad name.

...the fail rate is about 10-15% so your attrition score is not so far off.

... the profs arent anything special . your right. I wish we had smaller classes, but I knew comming here I would be with man studets



.there is a man student policy?
I think the fail/decel rate is about right. but it doesnt lead to that attrition number or if it has that is very very new. i will find out rather than let folks continue with speculation. decel at sgu is about 25% from what ive heard a couple of years ago at the school. so re: the attrition rate: perhaps youre confusing it with the decel/fail issue.

I should add, i reread the original post and one comment which was unclear I now read to say they are claiming the sgu pass rate for first time usmle step one takers is 70%. this is not reasonable. Aside fmo the fact that the pass rates have been verified over the years, its also illogical. The pass rate for first time takers is much higher universally than for repeat takers. Thus if the implication of flowers post is that sgu's reported higher rate is for all students takers, and the 70% for first time takers, its not possible. Simply because the pass rate goes down when you include repeat takers.

And Yes, We Hate Those Students too.

[stephew]

ok. ive spoken with sgu and they were kind enough to share some data with me that is pretty detailed. the sum of it all is that the pass rates have been well over the figures flowers reported and in fact in 2000 the first tmie pass rate was above the US schools number (though its not statisically significant is my guess). The five yaer average has been 90%

US citizens from sgu do better than non-US citizens in general.
im finding out more about attrition.

[charger5001]

Stephew- for a moderator your taking a particularly strong SGU stance. What is up with that? Do you do that for all schools or just the one you think highest of? Maybe you need to change your title to SGU rep.

I personally think Flowers account is sincere and accurate. He/she seems to have held in their resentfulness for quite some time. Either way we wish her/him luck at SMU! (- Verified Passing rate of 86%- )

[Happydoc66]

Hey fellas at SMU,

I am currently in a tough predicament. I have a friend I know who has been pushing me to go with them to a different school (SMU). I really dont like it here at SGU for many reasons.

Can you guys at SMU fill me in on what to expect at SMU? Are you happy their? what is the pas rate for 1st time takers? How is maine?

This post is not intended to inflame any SGU students, but I just want to say we dont have to settle for what the administration provides us. We can do better. Either we demand more from the school or move on to a better one.

[stephew]

Stephew- for a moderator your taking a particularly strong SGU stance. What is up with that? Do you do that for all schools or just the one you think highest of? Maybe you need to change your title to SGU rep.

I personally think Flowers account is sincere and accurate. He/she seems to have held in their resentfulness for quite some time. Either way we wish her/him luck at SMU! (- Verified Passing rate of 86%- )

just a few comments in reply
1) I went sgu so know alot about it and care that its represented accurately, warts and all
2) resentfulness does not confer accuracy reliability or validity on someone's factoids.
3)i wish flowers good luck too; asking that numbers based assertions be factualy or verified does not equate with wishing them ill.
4) i think ive been here long enough that people can see my posts in totum and decide for themselves how much weight to give my assertions and views, and whether or not they care to give your dig much credibilitiy

[stephew]

attrition at sgu;
Attrition is 16-17% with a 9-12% transferring to US (this is included in the attrition figure)
schools.... over 90% of the students that start at SGU become
physicians either thru sgu or by completion elsewhere
via dean's office at sgu.

[stephew]

Hey fellas at SMU,

I am currently in a tough predicament. I have a friend I know who has been pushing me to go with them to a different school (SMU). I really dont like it here at SGU for many reasons.

Can you guys at SMU fill me in on what to expect at SMU? Are you happy their? what is the pas rate for 1st time takers? How is maine?

This post is not intended to inflame any SGU students, but I just want to say we dont have to settle for what the administration provides us. We can do better. Either we demand more from the school or move on to a better one.if youre not happy there is nothing wrong with looking else where. good luck in finding the right place for you and make sure you think of the long term.

[kingbudo]

SMU is not great either. good luck

[onesolo]

I would suggest you read through the previous post. No school is perfect. As was recently pointed out, coming onto the SMU board is going to get you MOSTLY positive responses however, going to the Saba board will do the same from them. Reconsider what exactly it is you want out of a school and then go for it. There are numerous post on this site of why people would go to SMU all over again. Start there

[ASIANDOC]

If you tell SMU students what are the issues of concerns with the school they might be at a better position to tell you if SMU in the areas of your concerns better,same.or worse.
its not always greener on the other side.

[MDXRS22]

What's going on??????
Mass exodus or what???
That's the 4th about departing....:confused:

[Junito]

I am a transfer to SMU, and am happy about my decision. The school is not perfect, but has much to offer. I enjoy the teaching (but I can only tell you from Maine), the administration, and the student environment. Now are you a 4th semester student at SGU? You are in a tough predicament, don't leave because your friend is trying to convince you though. Do what is best for you. Consider financing your education also, if you don't have a decent credit history that can be a problem. Make sure you can get pre-qualified by Health X-press before considering transfering.

[stephew]

I would suggest you read through the previous post. No school is perfect. As was recently pointed out, coming onto the SMU board is going to get you MOSTLY positive responses however, going to the Saba board will do the same from them. Reconsider what exactly it is you want out of a school and then go for it. There are numerous post on this site of why people would go to SMU all over again. Start therethen against its mostly positive on the sgu board as well. the suggestion of what issues/concerns you have might be the best as to figure out your next step.

[swimguy23]

That's venting personal fustration!
By the way, pitching in has nothing to do with holding over... which means, you can always voice your opinion in a conversation, and one may as well let it blow off like hot air coming out of a balloon. :rolleyes:

no, i agree.....but its kinda funny when someone says something.....people reply and then someone is like ah i cant believe you said that

[MDXRS22]

no, i agree.....but its kinda funny when someone says something.....people reply and then someone is like ah i cant believe you said that

You made a good point!
You will always find that side of the story...

[onesolo]

I agree..... Everyone's board is going to be more or less promoting their own school.

[stephew]

I agree..... Everyone's board is going to be more or less promoting their own school.most people feel pretty good about their school (with notable exceptinos) but you can tell who's being balanced and striving for objectivity usually.

[onesolo]

I would agree

[JTP73]

I would agree Stop being such a cheerleader! ;)

http://www.valuemd.com/t44253-to-the-smu-cheerleading-squad.html

[stateofequilibrium]

Will you guys please take studentAUC?

[AUCMD2006]

Will you guys please take studentAUC?


yea i think studentauc and sbturner would bring balance to the force.....at least it'd be fun watching them go at it...

[onesolo]

Stop being such a cheerleader! ;)

http://www.valuemd.com/t44253-to-the-smu-cheerleading-squad.html

Don't hate, particapate

[Junito]

yea i think studentauc and sbturner would bring balance to the force.....at least it'd be fun watching them go at it...
:starwars:

[sbturner]

Of course SMU is a step up from SGU, but with that being said, please let me say that it should be your decision and your decision alone. We would absolutely love to have you here:p , another great student, but we want you to be happy and do what is best for you. We wish you the very best and know that you will be a great doctor whichever route you chose. We certainly hope you will chose SMU. Best wishes!:D

[sbturner]

Welcome to SMU!!

Clearly, SMU is by far a much beter school than SGU!!! This is an absolute no brainer!!:p :p :p

SGU is not the "Harvard" of anything. SGU is a mediocre medical school at best.

Ridiculous how the AUC, Ross and SGU students can come on to our website and falsely state that they are better than our school. Yet, when we go on to their websites and tell everyone how much better SMU really is than their respective schools, well we either get our post censured or deleted.

Yes, you are absolutely right. The moderators on the valuemd forum are extremely biased towards AUC, Ross and SGU. Repetitively they claim they are unbiased. You can say whatever you want, your lack of character is shining through. Ironic how they blast us for being positive about SMU. Whose character is shady now. This is the AUC, Ross, SGU website, not valuemd. I wonder who pays valuemd the most.

I do not like to be negative, but what I said is soooo true. You folks (moderators) really need to be less biased.

[MDXRS22]

"Harvard of the Caribbean?":mad:

What a JOKE!!!!

Clearly, SMU is by far a much beter school than SGU!!! This an absolute no brainer!!:p :p :p

SGU is the JOKE of the Caribbean! How long has this mediocre medical school been in business? Forever. How many great doctors have they produced? None! Funny how SGU students can come on the SMU website and declare they are a better school, yet we go on their website and declare that SMU is the best medical school, and then we get our post either deleted or censured. Sure seems to me that the moderators on vluemd are extremely biased. They say they do not favor one school over another, yet they constantly stand up for AUC, Ross and SGU. Maybe that is because most of them went to AUC, Ross or SGU and became nothing! Opps, they became moderators for valuemd. What an accomplishment. :(

You know this post is going to get deleted or censured.


Why should it be deleted?
You just voiced over what you feel is important to you and your fellows...
When you are right, you are right!
Biased is almost alive in this place, to tell the truth.

[Jeep23Guy]

Let me start by saying that I am currently a second semester student at SMU. SMU was the only place outside of the US that I applied. I am married and was interested in going to a place that we could have all (or at least most) of the luxuries of home. That's not to say that I don't think that SGU and Ross are good schools. I probably would have attended (or at least considered attending) Ross or SGU if I was not married. This is not a shot to SMU, but it would be nice to make sure I can practice wherever I want (ie. Texas). Having said this, I'm happy with my decision to attend SMU. The most important thing in my life is my wife, and she is happy on the island (with a good job, too).

SMU has shown great potential over the past semester and 1/2, but there is still LOTS of room for improvement, as is true for all schools. There seems to be a lot of turnover of professors at this time. I'm not saying this is good, bad, or anything else, I'm just making a statement. A couple have left for bigger and better things and a few have been fired. New professors seem to arrive more and more often (which can be a good thing...more professors and better professors are always good). The actual school building at SMU is not equipped to provide for all of the students. There's lots of lecture hall space, however, the anatomy, histo, and micro labs are too small (especially for the new larger classes). The cadavers are starting to get old and beat up, but there will be a whole set of new cadavers/body parts next semester, so that won't be a problem.

I know SMU is planning on building new facilities, but that will probably hapeen on "Cayman Time". Anybody on Grand Cayman knows that everything here happens A LOT slower than in the US. The school gets things done quickly usually, but any type of work will usually take at least twice as long as estimated. This isn't SMU's fault, it's just how it goes. The new Residency Suites was scheduled to be done in August but the completion date has been moved back several times (as of this morning, October 20, it didn't look close to done).

Now that I've said some negatives about SMU, let me say that there are lots of positives as well. I'm happy with my decision to come here. The administration is constantly working on making SMU a better school and improving in any way possible in order to help students as well as convince state medical boards that SMU is a good medical school. I feel like SMU is giving me a great chance to do very well on step 1. This is partly due to some very good professors, but also the required purchase of kaplan review books (which is a good idea) along with access to the corresponding kaplan videos. We are encouraged to study for step 1 from day 1 of medical school, and given the materials and ability to do so. There are many other reasons that SMU is improving (bring in research, harvard cooperation, etc) but many of these are publicly known and I thought I wouldn't waste time.

I'm sorry about writing this novel, but I thought that you really needed a slightly unbiased opinion of SMU. I think that everyone should know the whole truth before coming here. Having said that, I think that anyone can be happy at SMU, and I think the school is heading in the right direction. SMU is a good school right now with the potential of becoming a truly great school.

[stephew]

how dare you make an accusation about deleted/censured (or censored for that matter) posts as a bias. Absolutely NO posts are deleted for opinion. The only information that is edited is that which is against terms of service.

Stburner, unless you are claiming that students from SMU have a particularly difficult time figureing out how to express their views without insults/vulgar language/or using proper names, you have no basis for such an accusation.

Do your school a favor and consider representing it with a little more nobility.

[sbturner]

I have had my posts deleted and censured when I have attempted to post on their websites. So, I can say what I did. Although it was not very nice, which I do apologize for. Please accept my apologies. I just get a little frustrated, which is no excuse. Again, I'm sorry. No hard feelings please. I recant my previous statements. :D

[###]

.............

[stephew]

thank you. Do you mean website or forum? Posts are NEVER edited unless a violation of tos and deleted only for spam/trolling/redundant posting. Editing is requested of the user before a moderator will do it expect in the cfase where a privacy issue is at hand (ie names). The moderator will make a note of his/her action. if you find a problem with a post, make a request to mod/admin to clarify the situtation. as far as i know there has never been any serious moderator action regarding any of your posts.

[onesolo]

WOW!! The truth is we as future doctors have come to allow this message board to be about a competition. That is not what this should be. EVERY school in the Carrib has it's limitations. Some people are going to say that Ross is the best, some will say AUC, some will say SGU, some will say SMU, some will say Saba, etc. If you have the ability to become a doctor and you head off to any of the above schools then you will accomplish your goals. It all comes down to personal preference. Do a yahoo search of any of the above schools and you'll find great accomplishments for each. The only thing that makes anyone of these schools better than the other is personal opinion... THAT'S IT!! Instead of all the fighting and bickering that seems to have become the norm how about we all try to say good things about our soon to be co-workers place of education.

If given the chance to work along side a doctor from SGU I would be delighted and I'm sure that he/she will be able to assist me in my learning. It's virtuly impossible to say something negative about a school when you've never attended the place.

People, I challenge each and everyone of you to give the bickering a rest and try to unite. One day someone's life may be dependant on two doctors from two differents schools in the Carrib.

If you want to speak positives and negatives about your own school then great.... We should all do that because that's what prospective students are looking for. Speaking negatively about a school that you've never attended though in no way should be acceptable however, speaking facts about a school that you've never attended (such as SMU not being licensed in all 50 states) can't be considered negative because its a FACT.

[swimguy23]

that and sometimes we just get bored so bickering is entertainment....i bet my dad could beat up your dad :)

[onesolo]

that and sometimes we just get bored so bickering is entertainment....i bet my dad could beat up your dad :)

LOL
:crutches:

This would be your dad after my mom got a hold of him though.

[swimguy23]

LOL
:crutches:

This would be your dad after my mom got a hold of him though.

oh no, you did not just give an opening for a "yo mama" joke.....:dance:

[Jabroni]

Clearly, SMU is by far a much beter school than SGU!!! This is an absolute no brainer!!

http://www.medbd.ca.gov/Applicant_Schools_Unapproved.htm

[Junito]

Guys please avoid the "Yo mama" jokes.

[sbturner]

We are going to get California approval; it is just a matter of time. We are the best medical school out there! And, I bet we will get our approval in a shorter amount of time than it took AUC, Ross or SGU. Have a nice day!:p :p

[JTP73]

Guys please avoid the "Yo mama" jokes.So, when did this happen? Congrats!!! (oops, sorry, meant promotion to Moderator)

JP

[stephew]

WOW!! The truth is we as future doctors have come to allow this message board to be about a competition. That is not what this should be. EVERY school in the Carrib has it's limitations. Some people are going to say that Ross is the best, some will say AUC, some will say SGU, some will say SMU, some will say Saba, etc. If you have the ability to become a doctor and you head off to any of the above schools then you will accomplish your goals. It all comes down to personal preference. Do a yahoo search of any of the above schools and you'll find great accomplishments for each. The only thing that makes anyone of these schools better than the other is personal opinion... THAT'S IT!! Instead of all the fighting and bickering that seems to have become the norm how about we all try to say good things about our soon to be co-workers place of education.

If given the chance to work along side a doctor from SGU I would be delighted and I'm sure that he/she will be able to assist me in my learning. It's virtuly impossible to say something negative about a school when you've never attended the place.

People, I challenge each and everyone of you to give the bickering a rest and try to unite. One day someone's life may be dependant on two doctors from two differents schools in the Carrib.

If you want to speak positives and negatives about your own school then great.... We should all do that because that's what prospective students are looking for. Speaking negatively about a school that you've never attended though in no way should be acceptable however, speaking facts about a school that you've never attended (such as SMU not being licensed in all 50 states) can't be considered negative because its a FACT.excellent points onesolo

[Jabroni]

We are going to get California approval; it is just a matter of time.

Too bad by the time you do (if you do) all students previously and currently at SMU won't be able to get licensed in CA ever.

We are the best medical school out there!

Then why be disapproved by CA?

And, I bet we will get our approval in a shorter amount of time than it took AUC, Ross or SGU. Have a nice day!:p :p

How? You've already been disapproved and have to go through the approval process all over.

[sbturner]

We are more than happy to go through the entire process again. Best wishes!:p

[Junito]

OK, how about we end this bickering? I believe Onesolo brought up an excellent point. Instead of tearing each other apart, how about helping one another. To the OP, many people left their opinions, now it is up to you to decide. Either school will help you achieve your goal. Good luck, and may you make the best decision FOR YOU.

[MDXRS22]

It should really stop!

sTronger we are... when we are united!

[bchamp1281]

Why is it that so many people seem to be leaving SGU all of a sudden? This is like the 5th person I have read about in the last 3 days. Give SMU a shot it has been a great ride thus far for me (4th semester-Maine).

[bchamp1281]

My experience thus far at SMu has been really good. The 1st semester was tough as a hole for my entire class b/c of the hurricane (IVAN) and all the moving but we adapted and moved forward. We lost a few good teachers in the relocating process to the U.S (they didnt have visas to come to the US but we did our best to learn the material). This obviously was out of the school's hands but they hired a professor from the university of michigan who did an excellent job considering he didnt have much time to prepare.

2nd and 3rd semesters- our teachers were great! The material covered was very thorough & very board relevant. When the shelf came all the concepts looked very failiar.

4th semester MAine- What an experience thus far!! The teachers are amazing. The staff is very helpful and the workload is the most heavy relative to the previous semesters. All in all the same ingredients apply to doing well => understanding the concepts being taught and repetition.

We get the privliges of using the maine medical facilities, lecture rooms and most of our profs practice at this top 100 hospital.

Just wanted to cheer you and give you something to look forward to at SMU. Welcome aboard and good luck its going to be a lot of work.

[MD999]

I honestly don't know why somebody would be leaving a great school which is approved in EVERY STATE and your tuition is covered by FEDERAL STAFFORD LOANS and has killer clinical sites.

I honestly cant think of any reason why you'd leave so late in the game. If its due to academic reasons why youre leaving, yeah you might find it easier at SMU, but you're just gonna get that material which brought you down at SGU on USMLE.
Wherever you go, work hard and do your best. SMU definantly gives you that opportunity to do well though.
But in my honest opinion, I wouldnt leave SGU for any school that isnt accredited in all 50 states.

[skidoc42]

Hey everyone,

I'm in my 2nd semester at St. Matt's and I will say that I like the school and have done really well here. Not to mention that I love the island and the vast majority of the locals. I guess that's the "cheerleading" part of my post here.
On the other hand, I will say that I tend to learn best on my own. Those who don't and/or can't teach themselves could POSSIBLY have some trouble. In a Caribbean school, you're always gona have professors that you don't learn from. In that case you must learn on your own...which I happend to do best. I've had several great profs here at St. Matt's that presented subject matter very well. On the other hand, I've had others that weren't necessarily bad, I just didn't learn from them and had to learn on my own...which I like anyway.

So, I think St. Matt's is good for me...the questions and underlying theme to this post is that you have to do what's best for you based on what you do best and what you like. Hope this helps!

skidoc42 ;)

[charger5001]

For those reasons I would leave to. Its not like you are going down by comming to SMU. in fact I think SMU is better, not b/c I attend it but b/c you get to come to the famous SMU maine program. It is tougher than any program out there. I can guarantee you that.

ALL the SGU, AUC , Ross and SABA can be assured that there is no more trying semester than the one in 4th at SMU maine. It is very well organized, very well taught but the workload is at times unbearable. HOWEVER if you make it here you have safely acepted the rite of passage and can now enjoy a much different 5th semester.

I can put money down that the scores on the USMLE for students coming out of the Maine campus are higher than anywhere else. You are making a wise decision and prepared to be challenged like you have never been before. Good luck.

[hyloran]

I honestly don't know why somebody would be leaving a great school which is approved in EVERY STATE and your tuition is covered by FEDERAL STAFFORD LOANS and has killer clinical sites.

I honestly cant think of any reason why you'd leave so late in the game. If its due to academic reasons why youre leaving, yeah you might find it easier at SMU, but you're just gonna get that material which brought you down at SGU on USMLE.
Wherever you go, work hard and do your best. SMU definantly gives you that opportunity to do well though.
But in my honest opinion, I wouldnt leave SGU for any school that isnt accredited in all 50 states.

Amen to that! Common sense doesn't seem to go as far when ur caught up in the rah-rah mentality.

[mo5225md]

first off...if it were my choice...i would stay at SGU ...but then again, im not in your shoes...therefore i think that it is your decision...and coming to SMU, if you had to come to another school, is the school of choice. I also have done a lot of research and found this to be the best choice. Although i am only speaking from an outside perspective, i will see you there in jan as i start my own journey....so good luck.

[onesolo]

Amen to that! Common sense doesn't seem to go as far when ur caught up in the rah-rah mentality.

It's really unfair to make that comment when you have no idea of what is going on in someone elses life. Common sense should tell you that.

[islandhopper]

I am very sorry to hear that Sgu didn't work out for you. Although by reading and re-reading your post, I feel maybe it isn't the quality of education at Sgu that make you decided to leave, but the issues that you have with the administration and the students and perhaps other things. I can certainly relate to that. But I also think that we need to learn to deal with it no matter where we go. Because let's face it, no matter where you go, you will not find everyone behave the way you like. There are ignorant people at Sgu and I am sure there will be elsewhere as well, if not at St-Matthews. I personally decided to switch to Sgu because it was more established. Anyhow, good luck to whatever you decide and hope you will be content with your decision. ;)

[ES21]

I dont think you will regret your decision to leave SGU to come to SMU at all. The students here are friendly and very helpful to one another. You never hear about books being stolen etc. like you have stated happens in SGU so that the other student doesnt do well.

SMU is a really good school- with its popularity growing tremendously in the past 2 years. It is everything you can ask for in a medical school. Most especially your chance to undergo the SMU maine semesters (Killer semesters) but you learn soooooooooooooooooo much and you gain lots of clinical experience.

Good luck

[diphylobrothum]

If you think SGU is a SLUM, take a trip over to DOMINICA, check out the ROSS CAMPUS, guarantee you will change you mind!!


the b12 worm

[AUCMD2006]

you can't make this statement:

"ALL the SGU, AUC , Ross and SABA can be assured that there is no more trying semester than the one in 4th at SMU maine. It is very well organized, very well taught but the workload is at times unbearable"

i would say that by some accounts the classes in cayman are lax with huge curves so maybe when you finally get to a "real" program you see how tough it really is where as SGU, Ross, AUC have a tough program all the way through.....i can't back up that statement anymore than you can substantiate yours. I got my info from this forum and some students via PM, and you probably got your info from AUC/SGU transfers who of course were all passing and in the top 10% of their class...both aren't very objective are they?

[tremble3322]

Who said they were in the top 10%? That is certainly NOT true. Some may very well and some are not that is a biased statement to make. Either way once they join the SMU family there is no competition we each work to help the other out.

We share notes, audio, questions and books with our classmates. Last I checked we are all working toward a common goal. Why not assist humnity by helping future doctors become even better.

[anencephalic]

Who said they were in the top 10%? That is certainly NOT true. Some may very well and some are not that is a biased statement to make. Either way once they join the SMU family there is no competition we each work to help the other out.

We share notes, audio, questions and books with our classmates. Last I checked we are all working toward a common goal. Why not assist humnity by helping future doctors become even better.

Uh, yeah...that was SARCASM on rrod's part...sorry you didn't catch that. Besides, if you're in the top 10% of your class, why on earth would you transfer?

Aloha,

[tremble3322]

yeah your right Dominica (not ROSS) is a slum!!! I went to visit it before making my decision to attend SMU.

[bchamp1281]

count your blessings..

[Junito]

yeah your right Dominica (not ROSS) is a slum!!! I went to visit it before making my decision to attend SMU.

I would disagree! I think the island is beautiful. I would say more like 2nd world (if there is such a thing). Funny to see how poor some people live, but yet most had cell phones. Some houses were really run down, but they had electricity and cable! I guess they had all of life's necesities.

[flowers779]

Thank you all for the warm welcome. It seems to me that this maine program is a very good one. I look forward to the challenge and meeting you all.

I am looking for a new start but not at the expense of a wonderful education and opportunities. Thank you again for the hospitality.

[charger5001]

You are quite welcome. Prepare to get spoiled by a great faculty.

[Happydoc66]

Why do you say that? WHat seperates the SMU faculty from faculty at other schools and how would you know?

[yo_yo_121]

I think he is speaking from experience. I also think JUNI or other transfer students to SMU can best answer this question b/c they have been taught by both their schools profs and the SMU faculty.

[ES21]

I cant vouch for the other schools but I will say the profs at SMU are first-rate. You can check them out at:

http://www.stmatthews.edu/faculty.html

[tremble3322]

I confirm the profs are great. They expect a lot from us (as they should) but its all part of the learning process. You win some and you lose some..but at the end of the semester you are better b/c of their demands.

To all the profs from SMU who read valueMD --> Thank YOu! :p

[AUCMD2006]

so which ones are the actual profs and which ones fly in for one lecture and vacation? i can't wait to finish and offer my services, the associate profs have a great gig at our schools, fly in for an all expense paid week vacation and lecture 2 hours a day...

[charger5001]

Rrod what school do you attend?
SMU doesnt fly in lecturers for 1 class. We have had geust lecturers flown in but they stay. Recently we had two teachers flown in from Harvard to teach us pathology. As mentioned they were flwon from oston and taught for about one month and a half. They were excellent I should add.

[mamat721]

I have decided to transfer to SMU from MUA, I heard so many good things about SMU and I think it really is greener on that side of the fence. I will finish the 3rd semester at MUA and can't wait to waive goodbye to all those annoying goats.
I have been receiving above average grades in all subjects at MUA, never failed a class and the school is really not that bad. Only I can't stand the island any longer and I need to improve my QOL. I know I should look at the long term, and I understand one day the transfer may need an explanation, but I just had enough of Nevis and I hope when the times comes my grades and the step 1 will speak for me.

[Junito]

you can't make this statement:

"ALL the SGU, AUC , Ross and SABA can be assured that there is no more trying semester than the one in 4th at SMU maine. It is very well organized, very well taught but the workload is at times unbearable"

i would say that by some accounts the classes in cayman are lax with huge curves so maybe when you finally get to a "real" program you see how tough it really is where as SGU, Ross, AUC have a tough program all the way through.....i can't back up that statement anymore than you can substantiate yours. I got my info from this forum and some students via PM, and you probably got your info from AUC/SGU transfers who of course were all passing and in the top 10% of their class...both aren't very objective are they?

Concerning "real" programs I experienced one at Ross, and I must say they made classes difficult unnecessarily (Anatomy was ridiculous). The teaching style at SMU was superior, and was better organized from what I was used to at Ross (1st & 2nd semesters). I must say that from the feedback from students who took 3rd and 4th semesters at Ross and SMU (the repeaters) stated that classes were comparable, except for Dr. PT 4...I'll leave that one alone. One thing to note is that Ross has changed its curriculum since I left the island, so I must put that one in.

[stephew]

i think most curriculms are ever evolving. Duke's new brilliant move? One year basic sci, one year clinical, one year basic sci, one year clinical. Just another example of how if you hire some to think about medical education, they'll have to come up with something; anything to justify their role and salary. Im teaching hte harvard kids now and boy could i tell you stories.

[bchamp1281]

Thats a great idea by duke... Im surprised no school thought (or implemented) it earlier.

[Happydoc66]

So JUNI if you compare the programs at ROSS and SMU you are saying that the SMU program and teachers are far better?

If this is the premise I would like to know what makes the SMU profs much better? In addition do you think the 80% rule is helpful in terms of having students show up to class?

Thanks for your help
Happydoc- who is angry with my school.

[anencephalic]

So JUNI if you compare the programs at ROSS and SMU you are saying that the SMU program and teachers are far better?

If this is the premise I would like to know what makes the SMU profs much better? In addition do you think the 80% rule is helpful in terms of having students show up to class?

Thanks for your help
Happydoc- who is angry with my school.

In my experience, I know that AUC has profs that were from Ross, profs from the states, profs that have left for SGU. One went to SMU, another went to AUA. Others simply retire.

All I am saying is that the profs who are so glorious at a particular institution today may not be there tomorrow...

As far as being angry with your school....the grass is always greener on the other side. AUC has had its share of administrative woes during my tenure in basic sciences so much that I had looked into transferring to SGU...I am glad that I didn't, but then again, that's just me.



Aloha,

[microphage]

In my experience, I know that AUC has profs that were from Ross, profs from the states, profs that have left for SGU. One went to SMU, another went to AUA. Others simply retire.

All I am saying is that the profs who are so glorious at a particular institution today may not be there tomorrow...

As far as being angry with your school....the grass is always greener on the other side. AUC has had its share of administrative woes during my tenure in basic sciences so much that I had looked into transferring to SGU...I am glad that I didn't, but then again, that's just me.



Aloha,

ditto here, everybody had contemplated transferring with the grass being greener everywhere else but in the end, it almost never is.

[Junito]

ditto here, everybody had contemplated transferring with the grass being greener everywhere else but in the end, it almost never is.

I contemplated it, and actually did it, convinced a few others to do it, we all (those who transferred to SMU) now know that the grass is definitely greener on this side...

[bchamp1281]

Based on the transfers Ive spoken to they said the grass is greener and more importantly "cleaner" here!!

One quote they told me that stuck with me is that "God looks at the clean hands not the full ones" as they referred to the cut throat competition at their respective schools.

[charger5001]

I spoke to a transfer from AUC today and he told me that SMU is far better than SMU. I asked why?

His answer:

- Profs are better
- Administration cares about the students
- Better island
- Better overall program
- Physical exam review earlier on in the curriculum
- Better exams (more of a USMLE format)

He actually called his buddies to tell them about SMU and to transfer over. Just reiterating what an actual transfer student has said.

[swimguy23]

I spoke to a transfer from AUC today and he told me that SMU is far better than SMU. I asked why?

His answer:

- Profs are better
- Administration cares about the students
- Better island
- Better overall program
- Physical exam review earlier on in the curriculum
- Better exams (more of a USMLE format)

He actually called his buddies to tell them about SMU and to transfer over. Just reiterating what an actual transfer student has said.

yes, there was always a high influx of people transferring from AUC bc they were doing great in their classes.....its just really funny, i didnt know of one single person who transferred and was doing good in their classes.....but of course, its always the schools, professors, etc fault. Also, some people from SMU have been PM me about clinicals.....i keep telling them that im from AUC but make sure you learn as much as you can in your physical review course bc SMU students (at the very least, the ones i have dealt with) lack some very basic H&P skills

[Junito]

yes, there was always a high influx of people transferring from AUC bc they were doing great in their classes.....its just really funny, i didnt know of one single person who transferred and was doing good in their classes.....but of course, its always the schools, professors, etc fault. Also, some people from SMU have been PM me about clinicals.....i keep telling them that im from AUC but make sure you learn as much as you can in your physical review course bc SMU students (at the very least, the ones i have dealt with) lack some very basic H&P skills
I hate to admit it but Swimguy made a point...The pt dr 4 curriculum is in need of modification. Though I criticize Ross for its administration, I was able to get through the check out with the help of an upperclassmen who transfered from Ross. He took ICM in Dominica, and his clinical skills were superb. I learned and did well on my check out thanks to him. As I stated in other posts, the pt dr 4 class needs some serious modification. I seen that they made some changes, but more is needed. For those who wish to surpass what is expected of us and to be better prepared for the H&P component of clinicals, I received a few files that the Rossies would use to prepare for ICM. Excellent material. I will put it on the Juni CD in the library.

Make sure you learn your H&P skills well, for what they expect from us from Pt. Dr 4 is not enough.

[Junito]

How can Pt Dr 4 be made better?

1- Get more anatomical models (for pelvic exams, rectal exams, etc)

2- Have a video series (aside from bates, since the professors are quick to point out some inaccuracies) made by the professors.

3- Get a few Harvey models.

4- Start telling what students need to know from the checkout early on (give out the check out sheet early in the semester)

5- Have the clinical skills lab open during times where classes are not in session so students can practice.

Just my take.

[anencephalic]

I spoke to a transfer from AUC today and he told me that SMU is far better than SMU. I asked why?

His answer:

- Profs are better
- Administration cares about the students
- Better island
- Better overall program
- Physical exam review earlier on in the curriculum
- Better exams (more of a USMLE format)

He actually called his buddies to tell them about SMU and to transfer over. Just reiterating what an actual transfer student has said.

Ask the transfers how well were doing at AUC. Swimguy's right. None of the folks who were doing well (no failures, above 80% cumulative GPA) in basic sciences transferred laterally to another caribbean school. The only time transferring made sense to me was for those fortunate enough to make the leap back to a US school. The grass may be greener, but there are always two sides to every story.

Aloha,

[AUCMD2006]

hey i just honored my psych and IM rotations am i eligible to transfer since no one that fails anything ever transfers? i also have a 80% basic science gpa and above 80 on step 1...now am i eligible to tansfer?

as for the profs i was being sarcastic with the "fly in for one lecture" what i meant was how many of those "associate" profs are actually on island full time? its great that a visiting profs come in, had plenty at auc, but i wanted to know how many of those on the website are ringers? and how many are there full time?

[sbturner]

We are very happy, and I mean very happy to accept transfer students from AUC, Ross, SGU or other medical schools. :D We welcome them with open arms. We know that these students are excellent students! We know this because they got into these schools. Some of these transfer students are superior to the students in those schools, and that is precisely why they are leaving these inferior schools! They want to attend SMU! Simply the best medical school! They are sick of mediocrity, and rightfully so; they deserve better. And, that is exactly what they are going to get at SMU! A medical school that would love to have each and every one of them!:D

As far as the "skills" goes, I have not pm'ed you, and I never will. I will smoke you and anyone from your school (AUC), Ross or SGU at clinical skills or anything else doctor related. You folks are not even close to being in the same league as SMU grads! You will never be able to compete with us when it comes to medicine! Your schools have been producing mediocre doctors for the past fifty years! I just want to know when you folks are going to do something right for a change! This is exactly why SMU has become #1! You folks cannot get it done! We can!!:D

Have a nice day, and remember students are leaving your school to come to ours. I have yet to hear of anyone leaving SMU!:D

SMU is #1!!!!:D

[swimguy23]

Some of these transfer students are superior to the students in those schools, and that is precisely why they are leaving these inferior schools! your objectivity will get you far in clinicals.....

As far as the "skills" goes, I have not pm'ed you, and I never will. please dont, these were people who were obviously looking for a unbiased opinion

I will smoke you and anyone from your school (AUC), Ross or SGU at clinical skills or anything else doctor related. yep already seen those kind in the hospital.....theyre usualy torn apart by an attending for being so far shoved up their bum.....

You folks are not even close to being in the same league as SMU grads! actually that is my goal in life, to be in the same league as smu.....riiiiight. I have seen some amazing SMU grads, as i have seen some amazing SGU, AUC and Ross grads.....i think the one thing that is constant from these schools is the variability of students they produce and that is never going to change

You will never be able to compete with us when it comes to medicine! haha youre just funny

Your schools have been producing mediocre doctors for the past fifty years! auc has been around for a little over 25 but again your information is always so valid


being a cheerleader for your school is fine.....i just find it funny when there were smu students who couldnt auscultate the heart and missed an obvious S3 and S4 murmurs.....i was providing information so people from your school wont look stupid.....get over yourself man, some people actually like to help others rather than blowin steam up their own butts.....obviously, if i was telling them to learn better H&P skills i wasnt doing it to embarass them. I told the same thing to a friend from Hope.....theyre H&P skills are far worse than SMU and he is constatnly trying to improve them now

i mean nothing against smu as a whole

[stephew]

folks- remember: other people are able to see hot air for what it is. fact is, there is nothing against terms of use with regard to opinon, and trust me, you like it that way. If someone posts something that you want to counter thats fine but remember: do so in terms of use. and have a little faith that most people can see a post (and particularly a series of them) for what they are and if they can't, well, its more their problem than anything.

[rokshana]

I will be going to St. Matthews University school of medicine (SMU).

I have decided that I will no longer be staying at St. Georges university (SGU). The administration there has been lack luster to say the least. The class sizes are huuuuge and the amount of personal attention you get from them is nil.

The faculty is ok...nothing special. The only thing holding them afloat at this point is their reputation over the years. The only reason they have that rep is b/c they pump out medical students into the cores each semester which is expected considering your class can have 300 students in it.

I'd say 10% attrition rate is reasonable and about 30% fail step 1 the 1st time yet students continue to apply...beats the heck out of me.
There pass rate has been ove-inflated through the semesters Ive been there. Some have said the pass rate was as low as 65%, but again there is no way to verify.

The island is a slum. It is a true 3rd world country. I can not handle such an environment (although I hear SABA is even worse).

All in all my grades were ok...low 80's...but the collective punishment of all these factors made me consider moving to a "better school." I did my research and SMU had all the right tools and seemingly high satisfaction among students and so I will be transferring to SMU this January.

Sorry your experience was so bitter, but a couple of corrections
the USMLE pass rate isn't as low as you claim. Now mind you its different every year, but the class above me only had 3 people fail StepI (out of a class of 300+ that's about a 1% fail rate)
Though I have'nt been to the Caymans, I would imagine its similar to many of the other Caribbean islands, so the US its not. I don't know if you heard, but Grenada, as well as the Caymans were by a "little" cat 4 hurricane last year and thing are a bit different- plus if you think Grenada is a "slum" you obviously have not traveled extensively, 'cause there are places way worse!!! Sounds if you want the conviences of living in a 1st world country (ie the US) and you won't get that down here anywhere (St. Martin probably comes close, but still...)
I'm sure there is something to complain about at SMU and I gotta feeling you'll be one of the 1st to do so.. I hope it suits you, but I gotta feeling that you won't be happy there either.

[stephew]

[quote=rokshana] Now mind you its different every year, but the class above me only had 3 people fail StepI (out of a class of 300+ that's about a 1% fail rate)
quote]actuall no the 1% fail rate is not any more correct that the original posters. please see the verified pass rate i reported.

[AUCMD2006]

wow, you can tell steph has been in medicine a long time, here is her transaltion from PC to enhglish:

this clown is full of hot air, everyone can tell from the string of ** that he posts that he is full of hot air and no one takes him seriously anyway so why bother to reply? if you do reply please stick to the tos.


on a side note i like how he respdonds for the entire SMU student body past present and future. please please please pass your classes, pass step one, get to clinicals and interact with students from other schools to base your comparison on. continue beleiving that only stellar students "tired of medicocrity" transfer. i am glad auc didn't take you...it would be a full time job trying to get you to calm down...

[swimguy23]

without asking the majority of students where they did **, its hard to tell them apart. There are exceptions but for the most part those that are in the middle 95% are hard to tell apart.....but then again what would i know, its only what im experiencing

[JTP73]

wow, you can tell steph has been in medicine a long time, here is her transaltion from PC to enhglish:

this clown is full of hot air, everyone can tell from the string of ** that he posts that he is full of hot air and no one takes him seriously anyway so why bother to reply? if you do reply please stick to the tos.


on a side note i like how he respdonds for the entire SMU student body past present and future. please please please pass your classes, pass step one, get to clinicals and interact with students from other schools to base your comparison on. continue beleiving that only stellar students "tired of medicocrity" transfer. i am glad auc didn't take you...it would be a full time job trying to get you to calm down...hilarious! :lolup:

[sbturner]

I am glad AUC, Ross and SGU did not take me either! A lot of people believe what I believe! You knew one day someone would come in to this area and take over the #1 medical school in the Caribbean, albeit we are #1 in the world as well!! You cannot be #1 unless you take on the challengers, no matter how easy it is to unseed them. You folks are saying some big words about your school; you folks are going to be proven wrong, again. But, that is the way change happens. One day your school is on the top, and then I ride into town and dethrone it! Have a nice day!:D :p :D

[swimguy23]

I am glad AUC, Ross and SGU did not take me either! A lot of people believe what I believe! You knew one day someone would come in to this area and take over the #1 medical school in the Caribbean, albeit we are #1 in the world as well!! You cannot be #1 unless you take on the challengers, no matter how easy it is to unseed them. You folks are saying some big words about your school; you folks are going to be proven wrong, again. But, that is the way change happens. One day your school is on the top, and then I ride into town and dethrone it! Have a nice day!:D :p :D

dude, dont take this the wrong way.....none of us care. we dont care what you think, what you say or whatever. you're so unobjective its not even funny.....seriously keep making these comments, theyre humorous if anything.....remember Napoleon's mistake and the effects his complex caused

[anencephalic]

dude, dont take this the wrong way.....none of us care. we dont care what you think, what you say or whatever. you're so unobjective its not even funny.....seriously keep making these comments, theyre humorous if anything.....remember Napoleon's mistake and the effects his complex caused

Oh well...he's 39 and got an inferiority complex and has to boost his own self esteem in this manner....let him. Apparently, the other 99.9% of SMU can care less about his cheerleading ability or his "I'm #1 and I'm better than everybody 'cause I'm going to be the best cardiothoracic surgeon the world has ever seen" diatribe. The same stuff was said about St. James when he was there and nothing's changed with his move to SMU. When he transfers again, do you expect it to change?

Hey SBTurner...have a nice day! Best wishes!:eek: :p :D

Aloha,

[sbturner]

I'm at SMU to stay! Honoring my classes! Better student than you! Go to a better school than you! SMU is #1!!! Have a nice day!:D :p :D

[Nimmuk]

Oh well...he's 39 and got an inferiority complex and has to boost his own self esteem in this manner....let him. Apparently, the other 99.9% of SMU can care less about his cheerleading ability or his "I'm #1 and I'm better than everybody 'cause I'm going to be the best cardiothoracic surgeon the world has ever seen" diatribe. The same stuff was said about St. James when he was there and nothing's changed with his move to SMU. When he transfers again, do you expect it to change?

Hey SBTurner...have a nice day! Best wishes!:eek: :p :D

Aloha,

Hey Aloha,

You did not needed to go this low to make your point across. No need to attack anyone's age, ect ect to make a point. Is this what rotations teaching you? or did you got it from AUC?

[teratos]

Has everyone lost it? Is this a "how many immature comments can we fit into a single thread" contest? Locking. Grow up. G