Stepping into the Unfamiliar: Pursuing Medicine in the Caribbean
The memories are still sharp: arriving in an alien locale, disembarking from the plane solo, enveloped in doubt. Questions swirled—where was the university, the vehicle, a place to stay? The unknown cast a long shadow. This journey, characterized by isolation and uncertainty in an unfamiliar land, marked the inception of my medical adventure.
Doubt often trailed my footsteps. Could I genuinely achieve success? Studying medicine on a distant island felt intimidating, and the fear of failure lingered. The task of proving myself as a legitimate doctor in the U.S. seemed overwhelming. During moments of uncertainty, online communities like ValueMD and KevinMD became my refuge, providing comfort that I wasn’t alone and that this route held promise.
Across the U.S., numerous physicians exhibit extraordinary talent and commitment. Many have distinguished qualifications, yet not everyone followed traditional routes. I assert this without reservation: attending a medical school in the Caribbean does not lessen one’s legitimacy as a doctor.
Gaining admission to a U.S. medical school is intensely competitive. Every year, countless bright and passionate students face rejection—not due to lack of qualifications but because of limited spaces. Meanwhile, America grapples with a growing physician deficit, underscoring the need for more doctors. Caribbean medical schools present an alternative, though too often seen through an unjust lens of stigma.
A common misconception asserts that attending medical school outside the U.S., especially in the Caribbean, implies diminished capability, preparedness, or worthiness. This notion is baseless, and I am a testament to its inaccuracy.
Like my fellow students, I undertook the same board examinations, rigorous clinical rotations, and secured licenses to practice medicine. The U.S. medical licensing framework holds us to identical benchmarks. In collaborating globally with other physicians, the origin of one’s degree is inconsequential—knowledge, intuition, judgment, and compassion are what truly matter.
The route to becoming a physician wasn’t always straightforward. My motivation blossomed when my older brother pursued medical studies in Saint Kitts. His journey ignited my own ambitions, ultimately leading me to the American University of Antigua. My academic performance wasn’t exemplary, but my determination was unwavering.
The route was littered with hurdles. The island’s distinct rhythm required adaptability. Wi-Fi disruptions, spoiled milk, absence of air conditioning, and publicly displayed grades were merely nuisances. Despite the challenges, we persisted, driven to surpass expectations.
Pre-matching at Mercer University in Georgia was a pivotal moment. Training alongside U.S. graduates, I proved my capabilities through dedication and hard work. This achievement wasn’t mere chance—it stemmed from perseverance.
Personal sacrifices accompanied my professional endeavors. I managed a long-distance relationship, which eventually blossomed into marriage and family. These experiences strengthened my resolve, turning obstacles into advantages.
The Caribbean experience was not about relaxation; it was about determination and personal growth. Through hardship, I emerged with cultural wisdom, lasting friendships, and unwavering resilience crucial for a medical career.
Caribbean medical schools should not be viewed as last resorts but as credible routes for aspiring physicians. Many of us discovered opportunities through these institutions and emerged more robust. If given another chance, I would choose the same path without hesitation.
For those contemplating this direction: it is demanding, filled with uncertainty and skeptics. Yet, for those fully devoted to medicine, it is a worthy endeavor.
Select carefully among Caribbean schools—look for those with strong reputations and support systems. Strive relentlessly and exceed expectations. Medicine transcends the origins of degrees; it is about life-and-death involvement.
More than a quarter of U.S. physicians are graduates of international medical institutions, many from the Caribbean. We are essential to the solution, not exceptions.
Every fiber of the white coat was earned through struggle, not handed out. We fought for our place in medicine, molded by the journey, becoming the doctors the world requires. Geography does not determine value; resilience and resolve define us.
Trust in our care, and witness our committed, trained abilities firsthand.
Ryan Nadelson, MD, exemplifies the forging of unique paths—rising to become chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at Northside Hospital Diagnostic Clinic in Gainesville, Georgia. With a familial background in gastroenterology, his decision to specialize in internal medicine was propelled by a desire for holistic care.
As a distinguished leader and mentor, Dr. Nadelson actively contributes to KevinMD, addressing the evolving identity and challenges in medical practice. Connect with him through Doximity and LinkedIn for insightful discussions on shaping future medical professionals.