Wherever you’re pursuing your medical degree, there is one universal truth: medical school is demanding. Although the first two years of med school are challenging, it’s the best time to get out and get involved in activities you love. Even in medical school, students need to maintain a good work-life balance. Luckily, there’s no better place to do this than in a Caribbean medical school.

At American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, we’re happy the island offers many opportunities for students to unwind. Here are a few of our favorite ways to relax:

Take in the scenery

Go to Shirley Heights, a restored military lookout, and take in the breathtaking beauty of English Harbour. Most people consider the view a must-see for anyone visiting Antigua. If heights aren’t for you, there are golf courses, miles of trails for horseback riding, and Frigate Bird Sanctuary on Barbuda, the largest bird sanctuary in the Caribbean housing over 170 species. There’s always something to see.

Get out on the water

Antigua sailing week occurs annually during the last week of April and yachts from all over the world arrive in English and Falmouth Harbours to participate in one of the world’s premiere sailing events. If you want to do more than watch the boats come in, there are numerous opportunities for sailing, swimming, windsurfing, and hanging out with stingrays. Tours, charters, deep-sea fishing expeditions, and sailing classes can be booked year-round.

Join a club

AUA has a diverse selection of student organizations, including student government, AMSA, Phi Delta Epsilon fraternity (the world’s only international medical fraternity), community outreach programs, and intramural sports. Love writing? Join AUA Pulse News, our official student-run school newspaper.

While studying should be a high priority, you won’t do yourself any favors by burning out before you graduate. Whatever you choose to do with your time outside of school, make a point to do something that’s just for you.

Interested in how you can get involved at AUA? Check out our Student Life page today!