With excitement, pride, and a clear vision for the future, dozens of students from the United States and Puerto Rico officially began one of the most important chapters of their lives by joining the International Medical Program (IMP) at the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG).
The incoming class first participated in Orientation Day at UAG's International Campus, where they had the opportunity to learn more about the university, connect with faculty and classmates, and prepare for the journey ahead.
During the event, Dr. Kashif Ahmad, Dean of the UAG School of Medicine International Program, welcomed the new students and shared the vision behind UAG's medical education, emphasizing the connection between physician training and improving the health of communities.
"Our vision is to educate future physicians who will heal and serve communities through innovation, academic excellence, clinical training, and disease prevention," he said.
He also explained that the program is committed to developing physicians who are recognized for their leadership and dedication to advancing the well-being of society.
Later, students participated in the traditional White Coat Ceremony held at the Palacio de la Cultura y los Congresos (PALCCO), where they were joined by family members to celebrate this important milestone.
Dr. Samuel Von Ayala, a graduate of the Class of 2021, delivered an inspiring message about the meaning of the white coat, explaining that it represents far more than a piece of clothing. It symbolizes the beginning of a professional identity and a lifelong commitment to caring for patients.
During his remarks, he reminded students that practicing medicine requires responsibility, humility, and a lifelong commitment to learning.
"While the good physician treats the disease, the great physician treats the patient who has the disease", he said.
His message encouraged students to remember that behind every diagnosis is a person who places their trust in a physician. Empathy, ethics, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, he explained, will always remain essential qualities throughout their medical careers.
As part of the ceremony, the incoming class also recited the traditional Hippocratic Oath, formally committing themselves to the ethical practice of medicine.
UAG's International Medical Program was formally established in 1983, although the university began welcoming students from the United States as early as the 1970s.
Throughout its history, the program has educated more than 19,000 physicians, many of whom now practice throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and other countries. Today, approximately 1% of the physician workforce in the United States consists of graduates from UAG.
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