“Things I Wish I Knew”: Advice From Past SGU Students
Pack Smarter, Not Heavier
One of the biggest mistakes new students make is overpacking.
Many students arrive with large quantities of items that are either unnecessary or can easily be purchased locally.
Past students often recommend bringing:
Multiple pairs of scrubs
Comfortable walking shoes
Extra charging cables
A reliable laptop
Prescription medications
Important documents
Portable chargers
At the same time, many students wish they had left behind bulky items that took up valuable luggage space.
The general advice is simple: prioritize essentials and remember that most day-to-day necessities can be purchased after arrival.
Build a Small Medical Supply Kit
Many former students recommend creating a basic personal pharmacy before moving.
While pharmacies are available in Grenada, having common medications immediately accessible can be extremely helpful during busy academic periods.
Students often suggest bringing:
Pain relievers
Cold and flu medication
Allergy medication
Digestive remedies
Bandages
Prescription medications
Vitamins
Basic first-aid supplies
Having these items readily available can save time when you’re focused on coursework and exams.
Your Academic Setup Matters
Medical school involves long hours of studying, and your workspace can significantly impact productivity.
Many graduates say they underestimated the importance of having the right study tools from day one.
Recommended essentials include:
A dependable laptop
External monitor (if space allows)
Extension cords
Headphones
Notebooks and study materials
Whiteboard and markers
Desk organizers
Portable storage devices
Creating an efficient study environment early can make a noticeable difference throughout the semester.
Don’t Ignore Travel Day Preparation
The day you travel to Grenada can be more stressful than expected.
Students frequently advise:
Arriving at the airport early
Keeping important documents easily accessible
Checking airline baggage rules beforehand
Having transportation arranged before arrival
Keeping essential items in your carry-on luggage
Travel delays happen, and being organized can make the process much smoother.
Always Pack a Well-Prepared Carry-On
One lesson many students learn the hard way is that checked luggage doesn’t always arrive when expected.
Your carry-on should contain enough essentials to get through a few days if needed.
Important items include:
Passport and travel documents
Prescription medications
Laptop and chargers
Phone charger
A change of clothes
Important academic materials
Basic toiletries
Keeping these essentials with you can prevent unnecessary stress if luggage is delayed.
Small Household Items Make a Big Difference
There are several inexpensive items that students often overlook but later consider lifesavers.
These include:
Storage bins
Laundry supplies
Command strips
Extension cords
Over-the-door organizers
Hangers
Plastic storage bags
These simple items help keep living spaces organized, especially when sharing accommodations with roommates.
Learn to Budget Early
One of the most common pieces of advice from former students is to create a realistic budget from the beginning.
Many new students focus only on rent and tuition while forgetting about:
Utilities
Transportation
Groceries
Dining out
Study supplies
Entertainment
Unexpected expenses
Understanding your monthly spending habits early can prevent financial stress later in the semester.
Choose Housing Carefully
Many graduates say housing decisions had a major impact on their overall SGU experience.
When selecting accommodation, consider:
Commute time
Internet reliability
Utility costs
Safety and security
Transportation access
Noise levels
Proximity to grocery stores and restaurants
Living closer to campus may cost more initially, but it can often save time and transportation expenses over the long term.
Remember That Everyone Adjusts Differently
Perhaps the most valuable advice from former students is to give yourself time to adapt.
Moving to a new country, adjusting to medical school, and building a new routine all happen at once.
It’s normal to experience:
Homesickness
Culture shock
Academic stress
Schedule adjustments
New social environments
Most students find that after the first few months, Grenada begins to feel like home.
Final Takeaway
If there is one lesson that nearly every former SGU student shares, it’s this: preparation makes a huge difference.
Packing smart, creating a realistic budget, choosing the right housing, and arriving with the proper academic and personal essentials can make your transition significantly smoother.
While every student’s experience is different, learning from those who have already completed the journey can help you avoid common mistakes and focus on what matters most—succeeding at SGU and enjoying your time in Grenada.
Credit: brookeinmedicine
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