Hello World !

*Update: The island of Dominica was hit by a category 5 storm, Hurricane Maria, in September of 2017. The information on this blog reflects life in Dominica prior to Hurricane Maria. Ross University School of Medicine relocated to the island of Barbados in 2019.

Welcome ! The purpose of this blog is to help people who are moving to Dominica that are affiliated with Ross University School of Medicine. Hopefully you will find this information useful in aiding your transition from US life to life on the beautiful nature isle of the Caribbean, Dominica. I spent time reading online about the island before I moved here, however, I really had no concept of what daily life in Dominica was like. For this reason, I’ve decided to paint a picture for you so that you will know what to expect and where to find what you need. I’ve also highlighted some practical tips and given you some resources to help answer some of the questions you might have. The best way to navigate through this blog is by clicking on the menu tabs above or by using the search function in the upper right hand corner of the home page.

On a personal note, I have to say what a delight it has been for me to move from one French creole, Catholic culture to another. In Dominica I can still participate in Carnival, hear zydeco music, enjoy creole cooking, and hear words like crawfish, boudin and Lent–ah, just like home!  From the Gulf Coast to the waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, this has been an amazing journey. Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez !

Louisiana2Dominica

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Goodbye Dominica

*Update: The island of Dominica was hit by a category 5 storm, Hurricane Maria, in September of 2017. The information on this blog reflects life in Dominica prior to Hurricane Maria. Ross University School of Medicine relocated to the island of Barbados in 2019.

As many readers of this blog already know, my season in Dominica has recently come to an end. Saying goodbye to Dominica, its people, and the Ross Community was not an easy thing to do but part of the moving on process.

I plan to keep the blog up and updated as possible but I’ll need your help!  I welcome any feedback from people still on the ground in Dominica. If you have updated information/photos on things mentioned in this blog or you would like to be a guest blogger at From Louisiana To Dominica, feel free to email me at louisiana2dominica@gmail.com .

Embrace Dominica while you are there, let it teach you what it needs to teach you. Whether your season in Dominica is short or long, you will leave a different person. I promise you that you will gain perspective on life, culture, and people. You’ll learn a lot about yourself too. Enjoy the experience, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Peace 767,

Louisiana To Dominica

 

 

 

 

 

 

Art & Craft Expo starts today!

The annual RUSM Art & Craft Expo charity fundraiser starts today, November 20th at
4 PM. Local artists and crafters will come from all over the island to showcase their handmade creations. You can expect to see artwork, woodworking, decorative calabash, jewelry, purses, bongos, souvenirs, holiday gifts, specialty food items & more!

 

Who? Everyone! Open to the Public
What? RUSM Art & Craft Expo 2015
When? Friday, Nov. 20th from 4PM to 8PM & Saturday, Nov. 21st from 10 AM to 5 PM
Where? Ross University Campus Activity Center, 2nd floor, behind IGA in Picard.
Why? Raise funds for TS Erika Relief

To see pictures from past Expo’s and keep up with us during the Expo this year, follow us on Facebook! See you there!

 

TS Erika Aftermath

Sending a quick shout out from the Picard area in the wake of TS Erika. At this point, Picard has electricity, water, cell phone and internet service. RUSM is keeping its website and Facebook page updated with the latest information. I am thankful to RUSM for their constant efforts during this difficult situation. So many people have worked tirelessly.

Here’s a picture I took of the bridge that collapsed not too far from campus. When this bridge fell, it severed the communication cables that run from the capital city Roseau to us here in the northern part of the island. This is why we have been off of the grid for the past few days…

I have much to say and a bunch of pictures to upload, but I’ll save that for another day. In the meantime, my heart goes out to you Dominica! It has been amazing to watch this country mobilize so quickly in the midst of this disaster. My sympathies to those who have lost loved ones. I look forward to joining the relief and recovery efforts along with other members of the RUSM community. Stay strong Dominica!

A Ross Wedding

Click here to read a great story about two Rossies who tied the knot!

Need haircut?

Updated list of hairstylists and barbers in Picard

From Louisiana to Dominica

Need a haircut? Here is a list of stylists in Picard…

For ladies:

Nicole– professional hair designer specializing in cut and color of European styles; also does eyebrow threading; hairexpertdom@gmail.com ; call for an appointment at 285-7033

The Glam– above Scotia Bank; 445-4332 , 616- 3973, or 295-3973

Healing Hands Massage Therapy & Beauty Supply Store– Jennisha is the hairstylist; also does braids/weaves etc.; Portsmouth 445 5878 or 285-5490

For men:

Benji-Benjie’s is open M,W,Th, & F from 10 am -5:30 pm and Saturday from 10 am -3:30 pm. Call  for an appointment at 245-1788. Located on Banana Trail on the street that is directly behind Hope Restaurant.

Chen’s-Located on Banana Trail, straight up from the main RUSM gate, on the right; 225-6879 or 612-6888

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