Behind every student’s journey through medical or nursing school is a team of people who help guide, support, and keep that journey on track. At All Saints University, the Registrar’s Office plays an important role in supporting students from the admissions process through their academic journey and beyond.
We recently sat down with Dr. Guzin Dincel, MD (Istanbul), Registrar (Academic), to learn more about her role, her background in clinical medicine and international health, and what she enjoys most about working with students and graduates.
With more than 17 years of clinical experience in infectious diseases and a background that includes mentoring medical students through Harvard University’s Global Health program, Dr. Dincel brings a unique perspective to her work at All Saints University.
In this interview, she shares what students should know about the application and admissions process, what happens after receiving an offer of admission, the role of the Registrar’s Office, and her advice for students preparing to begin their studies in Dominica.
A Conversation with Dr. Guzin Dincel
From Clinical Medicine to Medical Education
Q. Could you tell us a little about yourself and your role as Registrar at All Saints University?
Dr. Dincel: I worked as a clinician for over 17 years in the field of infectious diseases, specifically Tuberculosis and AIDS in an international non-profit organization with close ties to the World Health Organization. My role heavily included policy development and administrative tasks alongside care of patients. However, I became passionate about medical student education when I had the opportunity to mentor medical students from the Global Health program at Harvard University in the US. This is why it was very easy for me to make the transition from practicing physician to medical school registrar.
Q. What does the Registrar’s Office do, and how does it support students throughout their time at the University?
Dr. Dincel: Good question! Many students think the registrar keeps student records and issues transcripts and diplomas. While these tasks are handled by the registrar’s office, there is so much more. As registrar, I prepare data and documentation for accrediting agencies, communicate with all international medical boards and external organizations and agencies on behalf of students, graduates and the university, serve on the Quality Assurance Committee and Governing Board of the university to review and implement policies to improve medical education and administrative procedures among many other tasks. However, I can truthfully say that the most rewarding aspect of my job is student and graduate mentoring. Dealing one on one with students to inform and guide them for the postgraduate goals they have.
Q. What should prospective students know about the application and admissions process?
Dr. Dincel: Students should know and prepare the documentation that is required for the application process such as having their transcripts from previous schools, government issue ID and letters of reference ready. They should also know that their credentials are reviewed by our admissions committee and that this process can take up to 3 days.
Q. What are some of the most common questions or concerns you receive from students during the admissions process?
Dr. Dincel: The most common questions my office receives are pertaining to the academic course structure in the Medical or Nursing programs and the credentials of the university.
Q. What happens after a student receives an offer of admission?
Dr. Dincel: The offer of admission package includes an invoice. Once the invoice has been paid, the student is officially enrolled. They will receive a student number, official school email and be put in contact with the accommodations department to plan their stay in Dominica.
Q. What is one thing you wish every new student knew before arriving at ASU?
Dr. Dincel: I think all new students should understand that they will be travelling to and staying in a new unfamiliar country far from the comforts of home, their friends and family. This can be very challenging for some students. It is very important that students maintain a positive attitude and keep in mind that they are there for a short time working towards their educational goals. They should be respectful of the country and culture of Dominica.
Q. What advice would you give to a student who is considering applying to All Saints University?
Dr. Dincel: If you are a student who has always had the dream of becoming a healthcare professional, All Saints University offers the perfect opportunity ! I would advise that students compare our university track record, accredited programs and affordable tuition fees to other schools in the region. The choice will become clearer.
Looking Beyond the Application
Dr. Dincel’s role illustrates that the Registrar’s Office is about much more than administrative processes. From admissions and academic records to mentoring students and supporting graduates as they work toward their postgraduate goals, the office remains an important part of the student journey at All Saints University.
For prospective students, understanding the people and support systems behind their education can be just as important as understanding the program itself.
We thank Dr. Guzin Dincel for sharing her experience and advice with the All Saints University community.
Interested in learning more about studying at All Saints University?
Explore our programs: 4- Year MD, 5-Year MD, BSc Nursing, BSc Medical and Diagnostic Imaging, Associate Degree in Medical and Diagnostic Imaging and Master of Public Health.Â
