When Dr. Leonard Leo Visvaas from Chennai, India, decided to pursue medicine, he became the first in his family to enter the healthcare field. What began as a fascination with science evolved into a deep calling to impact people’s lives. Today, he celebrates his achievement as an MD graduate from St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine, having matched into an Internal Medicine residency at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra Northwell, Staten Island University Hospital in New York.
Dr. Visvaas’s medical journey began with preclinical training in Grenada, where he built a strong foundation in basic sciences. The island’s supportive international student community provided both academic guidance and personal balance. “The community in Grenada reminded me that medical school isn’t just about studying it’s about connecting, learning from each other, and staying grounded,” he reflected.
The Match process was one of the most intense phases of his journey. Dr. Visvaas credits SGU’s Office of Career Guidance for their unwavering support from refining personal statements and CVs to conducting interview prep. “Their detailed feedback, webinars, and one-on-one sessions helped me stay confident and organized. I knew I wasn’t alone in this process,” he shared.
Dr. Visvaas emphasizes the importance of mental well-being during medical training. Maintaining small, consistent routines such as exercising, spending time at the beach, playing video games, or building Legos helped him recharge and stay focused. Family, friends, and mentors provided additional support, reminding him that progress comes from steady effort rather than comparison.
For aspiring medical students from India, he advises: “Trust in your abilities, start preparing early, stay consistent, and don’t hesitate to seek help. The journey may be demanding, but it leads to remarkable personal and professional growth.”
Dr. Visvaas’s journey from India to Grenada to New York highlights the persistence, adaptability, and resilience required to pursue a global medical career.
SGU continues to attract a growing number of Indian students seeking quality international medical education and global exposure. As of March 2025, over 400 Indian graduates have earned their MD degrees, with 169 students currently enrolled. The university offers a welcoming environment for international students, supported by mentorship programs, cultural activities, and strong academic guidance. The Indian Cultural Student Association plays a key role in fostering community through cultural celebrations, social events, and sports like cricket, offering students a sense of home while enriching campus life for all.