Graduate Testimonials | UAG School of Medicine

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

Maria Valentin | Class of 1998 | Medical Internist | Alumni

Studying Medicine at UAG School of Medicine transformed my life from the moment I stepped through its doors. A defining experience that forever altered my path. Arriving at the age of 21, I was met with a journey of newfound independence, an enduring appreciation for others, and a deep-rooted sense of humility.

Brandon R. Cantazaro | Class of 2014 | Internal Medicine | Alumni

I knew that I wanted to help people. But it wasn't until I started volunteering at an inner city clinic as an undergraduate that my career path became clear. I wanted to become a doctor and serve the underserved. The next step was to find a way to make it happen. On the advice of several physicians that I worked with, I looked into UAG. Considering my goals, my desire for hands-on learning, and my love of culture and community, it seemed like the perfect choice. So I dove right in. I came to México, lived with a host family, and gained a deep understanding of the language and the culture. Except for five months when I returned to the U.S. to do rotations in Arizona, I lived and breathed medicine in Guadalajara for four years. And it paid off. I came home prepared, matched for a residency, and eager to begin doing what I had set out to do: help people the best way I knew how—by becoming a doctor.

Myers R. Hurt III | Class of 2008 | Family Medicine | Alumni

It was an absolute pleasure to visit the UAG campus nine years after my graduation. The UAG main campus, ICB, and Hospital Angel Leano all brought back fond memories. The new organ-based curriculum is an impressive step forward in the development of clinical and critical thinking skills, the electronic journal access puts the UAG digital library on par with any US institution, and the 4-year ECMG certification option is a much-improved pathway to obtain residency in the United States. It is clear that UAG cares about the success of their graduates and the faculty have made large strides to become a solid option for international students looking to practice medicine in the US.

Jose Monsivais | Alumni

I wouldn't mind going through it all again if I could. It was here at UAG that I learned how to study medicine and how to prepare myself. The principles I gained included questioning everything and never taking anything at face value, which is advice I still give to all medical students. I firmly believe that this mindset is essential for personal growth in the field of medicine. I am confident that UAG is on the path to becoming a significant institution, with the potential to expand, grow, and become even more influential. It is attracting a lot of talent, and the affordability factor is also a significant advantage.

Jorge Luis Martinez Trabal | Alumni

When Dr. Jorge Luis landed in UAG he never imagined the impression it would leave on him. His experience on campus was amazing, he created a great group of friends, learned from superb professors and physicians, and got to immerse himself in the beautiful culture of Guadalajara. He shortly noticed the advantages of attending UAG instead of other medical schools. At UAG, he was interacting with patients in his first semester and rotated through clinics weekly. This quickly helped develop his interpersonal skills. He also learned that UAG teaching methods were preparing him to have cultural competence, skills that are important to physicians. He received The best advice from one of his professors, Dr. Martinez Sandoval. His message helped him get through medical school and be successful and still uses it today.

Johnny Soter | Class of 2018 | Internal Medicine | Alumni

Together with my wife and our dog, we made the decision to move from Utah to Guadalajara, and we couldn't be happier with our choice. The city, the school, and the people have all captured our hearts. The professors and staff at UAG have been incredibly helpful and their passion for preparing students to become exceptional doctors, capable of providing medical care to a diverse population, is evident. One of the things that initially drew me to UAG was the opportunity to become a bilingual doctor. The idea of being able to communicate effectively with a wider range of patients resonated with me. As for my future focus, I am currently considering internal medicine, family practice, or emergency medicine. While I am still in the process of finalizing my decision, I am certain that my chosen field will be primary care. Ultimately, I would like to return to practice in Utah since our families are located there. However, I am open to practicing medicine anywhere, as long as I can make a positive impact on people's lives.

Alexander Sabre | Alumni

Working as a full-scale OBGYN in Phoenix, Arizona has been an incredible journey for me. From performing robotic surgeries to delivering babies, I am involved in all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology. My training in New York City equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate care to women in every stage of their lives.
Medicine has always been a part of my life, as my father is a UAG graduate and practices family medicine. Growing up in a medical household, I knew from a young age that medicine was my true passion. My experiences in Guadalajara, where I studied at UAG, were transformative. Despite not knowing any Spanish when I arrived, I embraced the culture and fell in love with the city and its people. It allowed me to practice medicine and pursue my dreams and passions.

During my time as a student, I actively engaged in social work, participating in various brigades and events such as 'Project Smile' and 'Cruz Verde.' Although my professional commitments in Phoenix limit my involvement in social work now, I remain dedicated to serving my community through the hospital system. I have fond memories of my time as a student at UAG, particularly the exceptional instructors like Dr. Carmelita, whose passion for teaching was inspiring. Learning in a different country provided me with invaluable life experiences that have shaped the kind of physician I am today. Being back at UAG is an honor for me. Witnessing the changes and experiences here fills me with excitement and gratitude. Being chosen as the padrino for this graduating class is a significant privilege, and I am thrilled to be a part of their journey.

Karimar Quiñones | Current Student

I'm from Puerto Rico and I first learned of UAG from my brother, Luis Quinones who is a third-year student. He spoke highly of the medical school, and I soon understood why. I love that they embrace international students and that we have the opportunity to have a hands-on experience from year one.

Dominic Barandica | Current Student

I'm from Modesto, California and I attended Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio. I chose UAG because of its reputation. My community has a lot of doctors and surgeons that have attended UAG. These are doctors I look up to so I followed in their footsteps.

Dariela Rodriguez | Current Student

I'm a graduate of the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. I knew medicine was my pathway when I discovered my passion for helping others and my desire to make a positive impact in the world. One of the reasons I chose UAG was because of the advantage of becoming a bilingual doctor.