American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine students not only keep up with their challenging coursework and exam schedules; they also find time to contribute to causes they care about. During the fall semester, AUA students – along with faculty and staff – kept busy volunteering and fundraising for a number of worthy community organizations.
AUA Student Club Activities
AUA’s dynamic student organizations are dedicated to philanthropy, student support, and community building. In Fall 2018:
• The Emergency Medicine Interest Group (EMIG) held a successful blood drive on November 15 to replenish stores at the Mount St. John’s Medical Centre pediatric unit.
• AUA Ambassadors hosted fundraisers for PAAWS, a nonprofit animal shelter, and other charities.
• Doctors for Christ (DFC) sponsored the “Random Acts of Kindness” event in October, doling out kind words and tasty treats to the AUA community.
• The Phi Delta Epsilon international medical fraternity and the Fit Club continued efforts to support the Cedar Grove Primary School project. Members of PhiDE visited regularly to read to students, and the Fit Club e-board hosted an October fundraiser. In the “$5 for 5 Reps” event, Fit Club members did burpees or push-ups to raise money to buy books, jump ropes, and other equipment for the school.
Community Outreach Committee
AUA’s Community Outreach Committee aids the local community through volunteer efforts, while providing service-learning opportunities for students. Last semester, the committee hosted three health fairs:
• The third annual Pediatric Health Village: Organized by the Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown and sponsored by AUA and other community partners, the August 25 event offered screenings for around 189 children. The Emergency Medical Training Centre (EMTC) staff gave CPR demonstrations, and members of the Asthma League delivered an informative presentation on asthma treatment.
• An event co-hosted with a local Lutheran Church: The October 13 health fair featured pediatric, men’s, and women’s health screenings, and provided semester three AUA students with the opportunity to learn from doctors and physiotherapists.
• Clare Hall Seventh-Day Adventist Church’s Education Food Fair: At the August 26 event, AUA students spoke to local youth interested in pursuing a career in medicine.
Learn more about AUA’s diverse student organizations and volunteer opportunities.
