Why Choose Saba University School of Medicine?
Join us as we highlight some exciting reasons to choose Saba University School of Medicine and share the recent journey of an incoming Saba student.
If you’re searching for the right opportunity to join a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program and fulfill your dream of becoming a practicing physician, then look no further!
Saba University School of Medicine (Saba) proudly provides exceptional instruction and training led by expert faculty, with individualized support both in and out of the classroom, as well as clinical rotations in the U.S. and Canada. What’s more, the first half of your medical studies will be completed on the beautiful and serene Caribbean island of Saba, providing a life experience unlike any other!
It’s the perfect pathway to achieve your dream of becoming a doctor in the U.S., Canada, and beyond. But don’t just take our word for it; a new member of the Saba student community has agreed to provide his personal experiences and insights to help shed some light on what makes Saba University School of Medicine so unique.
Meet Justen Wilmot, a brand new Doctor of Medicine (MD) program student who will be matriculating with Saba in September.
A Passion for Medicine
Originally from the Kitchener-Waterloo area in Ontario, Canada, Justen Wilmot achieved the distinction of being named the University of Waterloo’s 2024 Faculty of Science Valedictorian after completing a BSc in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Medical Physiology.
Justen’s passion for medicine and academia has been evident for years, making his outstanding achievements no surprise. “I enjoy the thrill of never-ending learning and want to be a part of the medical community to use the knowledge out there to improve the quality of life for others,” Justen shares.
Being chosen as valedictorian is not only about grades and test results, it’s about impacting the community, connecting with fellow students, and truly being an ambassador for the field of science. Justen elaborated on why he feels he was chosen for this honor: “I achieved a lot in my undergrad with being in high academic standing, participating in clubs, events and extracurriculars, creating my own initiative to encourage others to donate blood and stem cells, volunteering outside of school, representing science as a biracial student, and being a science ambassador. Through these examples, I gained the respect and admiration that it takes to be chosen as valedictorian and represent my graduating cohort.”
With a strong academic record, personal dedication and diverse achievements, Justen had many options for pursuing his medical career. So what led him to choosing Saba?
Choosing Saba University School of Medicine
Located on the pristine and safe Caribbean island of Saba, the school of medicine has much to offer for those with a passion for medicine and an interest in unique life experiences.
In the classroom and labs, Saba students benefit from intentionally small classes taught by expert faculty members (all of whom hold an MD, PhD, or equivalent). The exceptional instruction and individualized support helps them develop a deep and varied understanding of human physiology, disease, systems, and so much more. The results speak for themselves, Saba students consistently achieve a 98% first-time pass rate on the USMLE Step 1 and 2 exams (2018-2022)1.
Outside the classroom, students also benefit from a variety of experiences unique to the Caribbean. From hiking through stunning tropical vistas to snorkeling in the captivating northeastern Caribbean Sea to experiencing the sights and sounds of the rich local culture, Saba students have many ways to enjoy their free time. The campus itself also displays that special Caribbean charm, which you can view here.
As Justen considered his options and consulted his friends and family members, the benefits of a Saba education became clear. “I first heard about Saba from a family friend who is a doctor in Washington D.C., and also from my neighbors’ family member, who is a Saba alumnus. Through talking with them about their medical journeys, they both said that the school has a strong reputation for producing high-quality doctors, which sparked my interest because I don’t just want to be a doctor, I want to be an exceptional doctor,” Justen shares.
One aspect that particularly appealed to Justen was the opportunity to study at Saba University School of Medicine in the Caribbean, and then train and practice in the U.S. or Canada.
Clinical Rotations and Residency
Being from Canada, Justen’s goal is to return home to train and eventually practice. “From a Canadian standpoint, with the high demand for doctors in Canada and limited medical school spots, I don’t think people should rule out Caribbean medical schools because of the opportunities they can produce and alumni success stories,” he said. Speaking of Saba, he continued: “The school is also known to be very good at getting students matched not only in the U.S. but also in Canada, which is my goal.”
Justen is absolutely correct in noting that studying medicine at Saba University School of Medicine offers a unique pathway. Students begin their education on the island of Saba before returning to the U.S. or Canada for training. During our four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, the first five semesters (Basic Sciences) are spent on campus, where students develop their understanding of medical conditions and practices. The remaining five semesters (Clinical Medicine) are spent in the U.S. or Canada, where students complete clinical rotations at affiliated teaching hospitals, allowing them to apply their classroom learning in real-world medical settings.
After successfully completing their studies and passing key examinations such as the USMLE Step 1 and 2, students move on to residencies, where they begin specializing their chosen medical field. Saba University School of Medicine is proud of its 97% sustained residency placement rate over the past four years (2020-2024)2, helping graduates secure meaningful residences in the U.S., Canada, and many other countries.
Incredible Support
To help students achieve their medical career goals, Saba University School of Medicine is committed to providing comprehensive support. We’ve mentioned that our intentionally small class sizes foster a supportive learning environment, but our dedicated administrators and faculty go the extra mile to ensure that students succeed.
We provide extensive Student Support Services, along with a range of financial aid options, scholarships and grants to make medical education more accessible. Our accreditation by the Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), along with key state approvals ensures that U.S. and Canadian students are eligible for federal and provincial financial aid. Additionally, Saba students benefit from a close-knit community where everyone looks out for one another.
Final Thoughts
Justen concluded his insights and advice by sharing: “I am excited to start medical school, learn, and develop the skills to become an exceptional doctor. I’ll continue to work hard and give it my all to succeed and achieve my goals.”
With the incredible faculty and community at Saba University School of Medicine, we know that Justen—and all our students—will achieve their dreams of becoming successful physicians.
When you choose to study on the beautiful island of Saba, you gain not only an exceptional medical education but also an unforgettable life experience.
Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Justen Wilmot for sharing his story with us, and we wish him all the best in his studies and future endeavors!
1First-time pass rate is the number of students passing the USMLE Step Exam on their first attempt divided by the total number of students taking the USMLE Step Exam for the first time.
2Four Year Residency Placement Rate is the percentage of students attaining a residency position out of all graduates or expected graduates in 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24 who were active applicants in the NRMP match or attained a residency outside the NRMP match.
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