When I first imagined medical school, I pictured long study hours, challenging exams, and
endless coffee, certainly not turquoise water and palm trees outside my window. Yet here I am,
a Canadian medical student at the American University of the Caribbean (AUC) in Sint
Maarten, learning that medicine and mindfulness can coexist beautifully.
My Daily Routine
My mornings start early, around 6:30 a.m., with a quick gym session. While warming up, I
review flashcards on my phone to refresh key concepts before class. Afterward, I head home for
breakfast and coffee (an essential combo!) before lectures begin at 9 a.m.
Classes usually finish by noon, and then I head to one of my favorite study spaces, the dorm
study rooms on campus. They’re filled with whiteboards, comfy chairs, and a quiet but
motivating energy that helps me focus. I stay there until dinner time before heading home to
unwind, do extracurricular work, or catch up with friends.
Structuring Study & Self-Care
Medical school can easily take over every waking hour, but balance is key. I’ve built a rhythm of
alternating light and heavy study days:
● Light days: 6:30 a.m.–5 p.m. class and study block, then relaxation time.
● Heavy days: include another study session after dinner.
This alternating approach keeps me consistent without burning out.
On light days, I make time for small acts of self-care like painting my nails, doing a face mask,
FaceTiming friends back home, or spending the evening with classmates here. No matter how
hectic things get, I always end my day by reading one chapter of a book before bed as my
nightly “reset.”
Nourishing the Body
Staying healthy here feels natural. Every Sunday, I begin by heading to the Organic Market to
grocery shop for the week. Once I’m back home I begin prepping food and snacks for the week
to minimize my time spent cooking during weekdays. For instance, I buy kale and prep a big
batch of kale salad for the week — a habit I carried from my time living in Miami. (Pro tip:
dressing kale ahead of time softens it and makes it even better throughout the week.)
Meal prepping helps me stay energized, saves time during exam weeks, and keeps me from
defaulting to quick, less-nutritious options.
Finding Balance Beyond the Books
One of the biggest perks of living in Sint Maarten is how easy it is to find peace outside the
classroom. Two beaches are just a five-minute walk from my apartment, and I make sure to
go at least once a week. Even a one-hour beach break on the weekend helps me reset, refocus,
and appreciate where I am.
The island truly lives up to its nickname: “The Friendly Island.” Locals are incredibly kind, and
there’s a tight-knit community surrounding AUC. I’ve gotten to know several local proprietors,
and the small daily interactions like grabbing coffee and saying hello make the island feel like
home.
A Canadian Community Abroad
AUC also has a Canadian Medical Student Association, a community of students navigating
similar academic and residency pathways. It’s comforting to connect with others who
understand the nuances of being a Canadian studying medicine abroad, from adjusting to
U.S. licensing requirements to maintaining ties back home.
Personal Growth in a New Environment
Moving to Sint Maarten has been as much about personal growth as academics. I’ve always
been organized and focused, but this experience has pushed me to step out of my comfort
zone, make new friends, and embrace a lifestyle that balances discipline with joy.
Studying medicine on a Caribbean island may sound unconventional, but I’ve learned that
location doesn’t define dedication, perspective does. Every sunrise, beach walk, and study
session here reminds me why I chose this path: to grow, to learn, and to one day bring the
same warmth and empathy into the world of medicine.
Key Takeaways
● A consistent routine and balanced study plan are crucial to thriving abroad.
● Building community, both local and academic, keeps you grounded.
● Prioritizing small self-care rituals prevents burnout.
● Caribbean medical schools can offer strong academics and a fulfilling lifestyle.
