STUDENT PERSPECTIVES

Nazira

Baiz Michigan, USA

When I was doing my background research on Xavier, there were a few thoughts I was seeking assurance for, in terms of admissions, academics, campus and the island. I reached out to the admissions team and they helped answer all my questions thoroughly. I found that Xavier offers their students to do their rotations in the United States and has all of the accreditations for students to obtain residency and practice in the US, which is also what I’m seeking. I’m also very interested in research and Xavier provides a great opportunity in this area. The admissions team was very open and honest with me, and guided me step-by-step in completing the application process, gathering my required documents, and making it as smooth as possible. When I arrived on the island, I was astounded by how friendly, safe, and clean Aruba was. Everyone I met - students, staff, and all of the local community members I met - were very friendly and welcoming. Xavier’s hospitality during orientation was great, from the food and snacks to the well planned schedule of speakers, tour of Aruba, and white coat ceremony.

At Xavier, I feel that we have a very family-oriented community. Professors have known my name, along with all of my fellow classmates, from day one. My first week of classes consisted of topics overlapping similar material which helped me correlate the concepts to ease my understanding. Also, tutoring and mentorship are available for all the students.

When I arrived at the residential campus, I made new friends with previous and incoming students residing at the dorms. Yet, my favorite part about living on campus, aside from being provided three assorted meals by a talented chef, is the breathtaking scenery. At the residential hall, students can play sports, take a walk, work out, and study with friends all in one place.

I’m glad to be a part of this community at Xavier University School of Medicine!

Theodore Cooper Nassau, Bahamas

I chose Xavier University School of Medicine for its accreditation, curriculum, its reasonable tuition, its geographical position, and security of both the island and campus.

The process of my admissions was very smooth and straightforward. From the moment I submitted my application, the admissions team at Xavier guided me through everything I needed and what to expect before I stepped foot on the island.

The transition for me was very easy. Orientation was a very fun and informative experience. We were wellprepared on what to expect during our classes and we were able to meet all of our professors in advance. We were also given very helpful tips on how to study, manage our time and just make our medical school experience as enjoyable and successful as possible.

My first week of class has been an interesting experience. The volume of material to take in is something that might take a little getting used to at first, but the teaching styles used by the professors here make it a lot easier to absorb the material.

The community at Xavier is warm and inviting. From the upperclassmen and the professors, to the administration and staff. And living at the new residential campus is very convenient. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided to you, it makes it easy where you don’t have to cook. There are also many great recreation options, like sports, the pool, and the outdoor gym, to take a little break. It is also great that all of our transportation is included, for when we go to class or need to go pickup any items we might need.

Bhakti Modi Kansas, USA

I chose Xavier University School of Medicine for many reasons. My friend who was already attending Xavier spoke very highly of it and only had positive feedback while attending the school. When I was deciding on which school to attend, I spoke with many other students and I did not hear one bad thing about Xavier. I really liked everything academically about the schoolthe systems-based curriculum, and the great professors, the small class sizes, and the good sense of community. The admissions process was very smooth and quick. After completing my application and submitting my documents, I immediately heard from the school.

After having my interview with one of the Deans, I received an admissions decision in just a few days. The entire process was quick and easy thanks to the great admissions team. They were so helpful and answered all of my questions.

Arriving in Aruba was good. I appreciated that the school picked me up from my hotel with my family and brought us to the residential campus. The staff really was so welcoming and friendly, ensuring we got settled into the campus and to Xavier. Orientation was nice. I loved how we got started by meeting all of the professors, administration and staff all together. During orientation, we not only learned important academic information and heard from many of the doctors, but also were able to meet many current students and participate in some fun activities. I also really enjoyed being able to take part in the white coat ceremony.

I feel that the community at Xavier is great. Everybody here is so friendly and accommodating. Even though I am a new transfer student, I do not feel isolated or like I am in a new environment. The faculty and students here support each other and care. I can see the sense of family and community amongst the students and staff, and that has made it very more welcoming. I thought it was going to be hard making friends and fitting in, but it was easier than I thought because people were so nice.I am glad I live on campus because it makes everything so much more convenient. I love being surrounded by my fellow students, enjoy the beautiful and safe environment I can roam around in, and love having all of my meals and transportation taken care of. The housing here is lovely and I feel just living here. I am surrounded by a friendly community of people.

My first 2 weeks of school has been great! I have already learned a lot and the material is starting to stack up but it is all manageable. I like my professors and I can see that they are willing to help you anytime and do enjoy teaching.

Overall, I am very happy with my choice of transferring to XUSOM and I do think it is a great school so far. I can’t wait to make new memories here and see where my journey in XUSOM takes me.