Central America Health Sciences University (CAHSU) Belize Medical College was established in 1996, providing medical aspirants with opportunities to pursue a medical career in Belize. We caught up with Princy Sreshta, a second-year medical student, to learn about her experiences at the college. 

Who influenced you to study medicine?

I went to a convent school run by sisters who inspired me. Mother Theresa’s compassionate work and devotion to the sick also impacted me. Her quote, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love,” inspired me and made me want to serve the community. I realised doctors could directly impact someone’s life by empathising with them in their most vulnerable moments.

What made you choose CAHSU?

CAHSU excels in providing complete knowledge about basics and clinical sciences and serves as a pathway to the United States Medical Licensing Examination. English-based teaching and learning drew me to CAHSU. I like kids, so I plan to specialise in paediatrics or pulmonology.

What’s your favourite course?

My favourite course was ENT. Our professor, Dr Pineda made classes fun by making us record videos with our friends, imitating various clinical scenarios faced in the ENT department. We also familiarised ourselves with the instruments.

Have you encountered any challenges with any of your courses?

As medical students, we can never neglect any subject. My most complex challenge was time management, especially in my Fluids and Electrolytes course. I had vast material to cover and kept stacking various books until the last minute. I got sick from the stress of all-nighters, which taught me a lesson. I overcame it by carefully listening to the professor and noting the lectures that hinted at what was expected. Watching videos explaining the courses, referring to one relevant text, and writing personal notes have helped me.

What are you looking forward to at the end of this school year?

I want to expand my knowledge in basic procedures, handling of instruments, and patient care, which are required for us to perform in hospital situations. I also plan to revise everything I’ve studied, so I can be ready for my clinical rotations and learn the skills and experience it takes to be a good doctor.

What advice would you give to someone interested in applying to CAHSU?

Be prepared to give 100%, as persistence is crucial. Staying away from home is hard, but you can get used to the new culture by visiting amazing beaches and tourist attractions in Belize. Having fun with friends will make you feel better. The faculty supervises, assists, supports, and counsels students, which is reassuring. Medicine can be stressful sometimes, but your struggles will reward you at the end of the day.

Thank you, Princy, and good luck with your studies!

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If you would like information related to the application process, please email Student Services at [email protected] or call (501) 664-4502 or 225-4502.