I am in my second semester here at Avalon, and it has been an incredible journey thus far. As a Canadian student who did all of my schooling in Ontario, it was a bit intimidating deciding to travel to an international school to continue my education. The process of immigration and moving overseas was daunting. Avalon has incredible staff who walk you through every step of the process and ensure that you have everything you need prior to even stepping foot on the island. The people here are very welcoming and friendly, and it is not difficult to find help wherever you need it.

The instructors are fantastic and are truly available to support and guide you through the courses. With the small class sizes, it is very difficult to feel forgotten, unsupported, or like you are just a number. We have an incredible student government (SGA) that plans amazing events for all of the students, providing a great opportunity to get to know each other and just de-stress from the intensity of medical school for a moment.

“Medical education is not just a program for building knowledge and skills in its recipients… it is also an experience which creates attitudes and expectations.” – Abraham Flexner.

Avalon holds their medical students to the highest standard, setting clear expectations and providing them with the knowledge and the skills that they need to be successful and achieve their goals.

Published Date: April 2023

Justine Almeida, Basic Science Student

When I first decided to apply to Avalon University School of Medicine, I was nervous but also excited about what was to come. I was apprehensive of the potential challenges of attending an international medical school, including the dreaded USMLE examinations and the obstacles in securing a residency placement. After spending nearly 1.5 years with Avalon University SOM, I can confidently say that I made the right choice when I decided to join the AUSOM community!

From the very beginning of my admissions process, the administrative team at AUSOM was eager to clarify any doubts or concerns I had with commencing my medical journey. The Avalon University staff and faculty go the extra mile in ensuring their future students are confident in their decision to join their institution. From their extensive profile of accreditations to the endorsement of their residency match lists, there is no doubt that Avalon is the place to be!

The distinguished curriculum at Avalon provides students with a strong foundation in basic sciences, clinical medicine, and practical experience. AUSOM also offers a variety of resources to support student success, including tutoring, academic advising, and student organizations. I was also excited to learn that the students have access to a substantial library and study resources to support their learning. The staff and professors go above and beyond in ensuring their students are prepared for a future in the healthcare profession. The faculty is friendly, approachable, and constant in their support of their students: from premed, to the USMLE exam, to the end of their residency training!

My time spent as a part of the Avalon University School of Medicine community has been phenomenal, and I look forward to the day I can proudly say “I am an AUSOM graduate!”

Zaira Qaisar, Basic Science Student