Physicians are universally viewed as authority figures. The credential of “M.D.” that follows one’s name instantly conveys wisdom and credibility. When physicians speak, people listen. When physicians act, people watch. Nevertheless, with this undisputed influence and prestige comes an enormous responsibility to ensure that positive roles are consistently modeled. It is therefore critical that physicians-in-training dedicate themselves to a life of service.

At the forefront, physicians obviously serve the sick. Therefore, in becoming physicians, whether enrolled in a foreign medical school in the Caribbean or in a more traditional educational setting, students must invest enormous effort in their studies of illness. Great physicians, however, also serve society at large. Therefore, in becoming great physicians, students of the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine must also make positive contributions to the island community of Sint Eustatius.

Public service on Sint Eustatius often begins with a simple question. “Where is there a need?” By following this question with careful observation, students easily find ways to enrich the community that they will call home for nearly two years. Some students autonomously assist local school children with mathematics or reading, for example. In other instances, students may join ongoing initiatives conducted by local service foundations (e.g., Red Cross). Moreover, local congregations warmly embrace students who may then participate in service-related church groups.

The Student Government Association (SGA) of the University also holds the view that physicians are well rounded service providers. For this reason, each SGA-sponsored club (e.g., Asian Student Association) must provide a recognized public service every four months in order to retain its club status. As such, many students join clubs not only to facilitate their cultural, artistic, intellectual, athletic, or spiritual growth but to exercise creative thought and constructive action in their development as great physicians and hence as great servants.