The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) continues to highlight the achievements of its graduates with a new feature on Dr. Adolfo Sáez, a distinguished alumnus of the International Medical Program (Class of 2002) and current Medical Marketing Manager at Aspen, overseeing operations in more than 17 countries. In an exclusive interview, Dr. Sáez reflects on his academic journey, professional growth, and the lasting impact of UAG on his career.
Dr. Sáez recalls that his decision to attend UAG was influenced by the university’s strong alumni network. “I spoke with a former internal medicine graduate and his wife. They talked to me about UAG, and I decided to explore the option… finally, I submitted my application and joined UAG,” he shared.
For him, the choice was more than just academic—it was a cultural and personal adventure. “One word to describe my time at UAG: amazing. It was a cultural experience. Coming from a different country, I learned to understand the culture, the slang, the food… and at the same time, I received a top-notch education,” Dr. Sáez said. He emphasizes that UAG not only provided him with excellent academic training but also introduced him to a global network of over 19,000 alumni worldwide.
Beyond the academics, Dr. Sáez highlights the humanistic values instilled at UAG. “From day zero, UAG taught me humility, how to care for patients, and to see each patient as my brother or sister,” he reflects. He explains that these lessons go beyond clinical practice: they shape the way physicians understand families and communities. “It’s about recognizing that the patient has a family, and that family is the most important part of their care,” he adds.
These principles, he says, helped him carry the UAG legacy into every professional setting. “The training I received allowed me to impact not only local healthcare but also a global level, proudly waving the UAG flag,” he states.
Dr. Sáez’s path was not without challenges. Moving from Puerto Rico to Guadalajara and later to the United States required adaptability. “The Office of International Affairs at UAG was crucial. They advised us, guided us step by step, and made us feel like family,” he recalls. This support, he notes, was vital in helping international students navigate cultural adjustments while excelling academically.
He also describes the competitive yet collaborative environment at UAG: “My colleagues were top-notch, very competitive in a good way. We pushed each other to succeed, especially when preparing for board exams.” This environment, he says, prepared him for the rigorous demands of a global medical career.
Dr. Sáez credits UAG for equipping him with the skills necessary to excel internationally. “UAG gave me the education, the tools to face challenges, and the international projection,” he says. He points to the bilingual program as a significant advantage, allowing graduates to communicate effectively across borders—a skill he uses daily in his role managing medical operations across multiple countries.
Advice to Current and Future Students
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Sáez offers guidance for students pursuing a medical career at UAG: “Enjoy your time at the university, listen to your professors—they are experts—and prioritize your studies. If I could do it, anyone can.” He emphasizes the value of the alumni network and the support provided by UAG’s International Affairs team as key resources for personal and professional growth.
Even years after graduation, Dr. Sáez maintains strong ties with UAG. “Thanks to the International Affairs Office, I’m directly involved with the alumni group. We are a diverse network, with professionals in different specialties across the globe. It’s incredible to see how connected we are,” he notes.
Dr. Sáez’s story is a testament to the transformative power of a UAG education—combining academic excellence, humanistic care, cultural immersion, and global networking. His journey exemplifies how UAG graduates can make an impact locally and internationally, proudly carrying forward the values instilled during their formative years in Guadalajara.
👉 Watch the full interview with Dr. Adolfo Sáez on UAG’s official YouTube channel. Click here.
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