SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 January 2025 - Dr. Julia Hweyryoung Cho, MD '22, shares her remarkable journey from St. George's University (SGU) School of Medicine to securing an internal medicine residency at MetroHealth in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Cho's path to medicine began with a deep-seated desire to help her elderly grandparents, who struggled with age-related health issues, which ultimately guided her decision to pursue a career in healthcare.

Born in South Korea, Dr. Cho's experiences as an international student, moving frequently since the age of 11, further fuelled her passion for medicine. Throughout her academic career, she was drawn to biology and philosophy, blending her childhood motivation with intellectual curiosity to find her calling as a physician.

Reflecting on her time at SGU, Dr. Cho remarked, “Grenada is a beautiful island, and I'm glad I made the right choice to study there. The bonds formed with colleagues far from home created a unique and supportive community. These experiences and the serene environment made it easier to balance my mental and physical health while studying.”

During her tenure at SGU, Dr. Cho actively participated in various clubs, including Iota Epsilon Alpha and the Christian Student Association. Her involvement in community service projects, such as the diabetic clinic outreach and visits to the Home for the Aged, reinforced her commitment to patient care and service.

Dr. Cho chose to pursue internal medicine due to its diverse and challenging clinical scenarios requiring a multidisciplinary approach. “Internal medicine offers a path to sub-specialization, an added bonus,” she explained. Regarding her preparation for the USMLE exams, Dr. Cho emphasized the value of SGU's curriculum and resources. “SGU was ideal for me because it prepared me for the board exams through multiple-choice question sessions, which allowed me to assess my understanding and discuss my thought process with peers,” she said.

For international students considering SGU, Dr. Cho's advice is clear: “Embrace the culture and enjoy the experience. Grenada is a beautiful island with a rich culture and friendly people. Balancing studies with other activities is crucial to avoid burnout, and reaching out to the SGU community for support is essential.”

Dr. Cho's journey from SGU to her residency in the US exemplifies the comprehensive medical education and global perspective offered by SGU. Her story is an inspiration to future medical students, particularly those with aspirations of pursuing a career in medicine across borders.

For more information on the programs and tracks available through St. George's University School of Medicine, visit SGU's website.