The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) School of Medicine International Program proudly ushered in the January 2025 class, a cohort of nearly 100 students united by their shared passion for medicine.
These future healthcare professionals hail from diverse backgrounds and regions, including California, Illinois, Arizona, New Mexico, Michigan, Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, and beyond. Their journey at UAG began with an engaging two-day orientation designed to set them on a path to success.
A Warm Welcome to the UAG Family
The orientation program kicked off on January 9 with a heartfelt address by Susana Leaño, UAG Vice President for International Affairs.
"Your decision to join this university reflects your commitment to excellence and your passion for medicine. Today, you embark on an extraordinary journey that will not only transform your own lives but also the lives of those you will care for in the future,” she said, inspiring the new class to embrace the transformative path ahead.
The event was graced by UAG President Antonio Leaño Reyes, Dean of the School of Medicine Dr. Kashif Ahmad, MBBS, MSc, MS (MEdL), PhD, and distinguished alumna Dr. Julie Harrigan. With over 13 years of experience in hospital medicine, healthcare informatics, and physician leadership, Dr. Harrigan delivered an inspirational message encouraging students to uphold the values of integrity, compassion, and responsibility that define the medical profession.
A Comprehensive Orientation Experience
Day one of the orientation immersed students in UAG’s legacy and resources, introducing them to the institution’s timeline, academic framework, and clinical training opportunities. Sessions on clinical skills development, student success strategies, and career advising underscored UAG’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded physicians.
Interactive highlights, such as the "Meet & Greet with Faculty" coffee break, fostered meaningful connections between students, faculty, and peers.
The day culminated in the White Coat Ceremony, a momentous event held at UAG’s Main Campus. Each student donned their clinical white coat for the first time, symbolizing their formal entry into the medical profession. The ceremony concluded with a celebratory class photo at the iconic UAG Main Library, capturing the pride and excitement of the new cohort.
Preparing for the Journey Ahead
On January 10, the focus shifted to practical preparation. Students participated in workshops on UAG’s digital platforms, library services, and campus resources, ensuring they are well-equipped for the demands of medical education.
The orientation concluded with the Dean’s Bruncheon, a relaxed and uplifting gathering where students and university leaders shared experiences and built a sense of community.
A Promising Start
The successful launch of the January 2025 class is a testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of UAG’s faculty, staff, and leadership. This milestone reaffirms UAG’s commitment to providing students with a supportive environment and the tools needed to thrive in their medical careers.
To the Class of January 2025: Welcome to UAG! Your future in medicine begins now, and we look forward to celebrating your achievements as you embark on this extraordinary journey.