“I initially studied business,” she explained, “but my experience working as a scribe gave me a firsthand view of patient care. That exposure inspired me to pivot toward medicine, first through studying nutrition and later during a service year in Bolivia, where I truly felt called to pursue this career.”
“Moving to Guadalajara was an adjustment, but UAG has given me hands-on clinical exposure through rotations and volunteer work with G-Medic, a nonprofit founded by a UAG graduate. In two years, I’ve participated in 23 medical brigades, treating patients in remote communities who hadn't seen a doctor in years.”
“UAG’s diversity teaches you how to interact with patients from different backgrounds, helping us develop empathy and cultural competence that will serve us throughout our careers.”
“Unexpected personal challenges forced me to take two gap years after college,” she shared. “Losing a family member was especially difficult, but it strengthened my resolve. The friendships I’ve built at UAG have been a critical part of my support system.”
“In just three months, I’ve participated in two medical brigades, which allowed me to interact directly with patients in underserved communities. These experiences helped me apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings while reinforcing the importance of clear communication—something critical in my hometown along the U.S.-Mexico border, where many patients speak only Spanish.”
“Leaving my partner behind was tough, but the fast-paced environment at UAG has pushed me to manage academics, leadership roles, and personal challenges simultaneously. The support from faculty and peers has been essential.”
“Unlike in U.S. programs, where patient interaction is often limited early on, UAG encourages us to dive in from the beginning. It builds our confidence and communication skills, which are crucial for becoming effective physicians.”
“The independence was an adjustment, but the friendships I’ve formed here have made all the difference. UAG’s medical brigades have been especially impactful—they’ve taught me that medicine is about more than knowledge. It’s about empathy and connection.”
“UAG offers so many resources, from medical brigades to mentorship with experienced physicians. Students need to seize every opportunity. You can’t wait for things to happen—you have to make them happen.”
Meanwhile, Jaime Velasco emphasized UAG’s commitment to discipline and leadership.“The January start date gave me extra time to pursue internships and clerkships before residency applications, which has made a significant difference in my preparedness.”
“The values I’ve learned here—discipline, leadership, and communication—will guide me throughout my career and help me become the physician I aspire to be.”
Student leaders at the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine are shaping a supportive, collaborative campus culture by leading with service, humility, and empathy while balancing the demands of medical training.
Students from the United States and Puerto Rico will prepare to become “UAG-trained” physicians
Dr. Kashif Ahmad and his team earned second place at the international HETL Conference for their award-winning presentation on transformative, student-centered leadership at UAG School of Medicine.
UAG alumni in San Antonio came together at Chama Gaucha to celebrate a traditional posada, strengthen community ties, and kick off the holiday season with shared memories, meaningful conversations, and plans for the future.
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