Youssef Georges isn’t shy about talking about his experiences as a medical student at American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine. In fact, he started a YouTube channel as a way to connect with aspiring students, answering questions and sharing what he has learned in his two years at AUA.
“I wanted to give a student perspective and help other people,” said Georges. “People now reach out to me on social media to ask what I think about the school, what there is to do here, what they should bring with them. And I get to talk about things like student housing, transportation, and curriculum. The fear of the unknown is a challenge for a lot of people. I like being able to share my point of view and help them see that this path is possible, regardless of whatever happened in their past.”
Georges grew up in Syria and moved to the United States to attend the University of Toledo when he was 18 years old. He enrolled in the pre-med program, studying biology, chemistry, and astronomy, and confirming that medicine is his true calling.
“AUA gave me a wonderful opportunity that I’m super thankful for,” said Georges. “For a few reasons, one that English is my second language, my MCAT scores didn’t help me much when I was applying to U.S. med schools. But when I came here to AUA, I found that the school prepares you for your future from the first day of the semester. You have to put in the work, but we’re all here to learn, to gain as much knowledge as possible, and to be great physicians.”
Georges said he appreciates the diverse and supportive community he has found at AUA, which is especially important since many students move far from home to attend the school.
“We all support each other,” he said. “We study together, share resources, and push each other to do our best.”
When Georges finishes his studies at AUA, he plans to return to the U.S. for his residency. He said he has always dreamed of specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and he is interested in combining it with being a primary care physician.
“Coming from Syria and growing up in a war zone, I’m positive because I’ve been in some negative situations,” he said. “I’ve seen some people who have had distorted features but the purest hearts. I want to help people show off their inner beauty by enhancing the outside, to help them get past this obstacle. There’s a new specialty in the U.S. called family practice with aesthetic medicine. I love working with people, and family practice is a great way to treat patients of all ages. And aesthetic medicine uses non-invasive procedures to help people feel better about their appearance.”
Learn more about AUA’s students and their dedication to community service.
