The Science of Becoming: Dr. Crespo’s Inspiring Career Evolution

Meet Dr. Jose Sanchez Crespo, MBA graduate from Schiller International University’s London (Waterloo) campus, class of 1994, whose career path is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning and lifelong transformation. Currently based in London, he works as a Medical Doctor in A&E at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, following a unique professional journey that spans law, finance, and medicine.

Originally trained in law, Dr. Crespo pursued his MBA at Schiller with the goal of transitioning into the financial sector, where he went on to build a successful career as a financial consultant and later as an analyst. Yet, despite his achievements in finance, medicine had always been his true vocation. Driven by a desire to make a more direct and meaningful impact, he ultimately chose to retrain as a doctor, bringing together analytical thinking with patient-centered care.

This journey of continuous transformation also inspired his recent publication, The Science of Becoming: A Medical Approach to Self-Transformation. In the book, Dr. Sanchez Crespo draws on medical research, behavioural science, and neuroscience to show how evidence-based methods used in medicine can be applied to personal growth. His work not only reflects his professional evolution but also the interdisciplinary mindset fostered during his time at Schiller.

“Looking back, my time at Schiller played an important role in shaping how I think and approach change. It exposed me to diverse perspectives and encouraged a mindset of curiosity and adaptability. That foundation has stayed with me across every transition in my career, and it continues to influence how I approach both professional challenges and personal growth.”

Why did you choose Schiller?

I chose Schiller because I wanted to pursue an MBA that, alongside my existing Law degree, would enable me to move into a career in finance. I was also looking for a university with an international alumni network and multiple campuses, as I had just moved from Madrid and wanted the option to return.

What led you to choose Schiller International University?

I was particularly drawn to Schiller’s international environment and flexible structure. Having recently moved from Madrid, I valued the possibility of studying across different campuses while being part of a diverse, global student community. The MBA programme also complemented my Law background and aligned well with my goal of transitioning into finance.

Can you share a moment or experience at Schiller that challenged your perspective or pushed you beyond your comfort zone?

Working in multicultural teams was both challenging and rewarding. Collaborating with classmates from different academic and cultural backgrounds forced me to rethink how I approached problem-solving and communication. It pushed me to be more adaptable, open-minded, and effective in navigating differing perspectives.

Can you share some of your fondest memories from your time at Schiller?

Some of my fondest memories are tied to the sense of community, studying alongside people from all over the world, exchanging ideas, and building friendships that extended beyond the classroom. Group projects, informal discussions, and shared experiences across campuses made my time there particularly memorable.

How would you describe the spirit and culture of Schiller during your years on campus?

The culture at Schiller was truly international, dynamic, and collaborative. There was a strong sense of openness and curiosity, with students bringing diverse perspectives to both academic and social settings. It fostered independence while also encouraging teamwork and mutual support.

Which skills or ways of thinking from your time at Schiller have stayed with you across such different fields—law, finance, and medicine?

Schiller strengthened my ability to think critically, adapt quickly, and communicate effectively across disciplines and cultures. The emphasis on problem-solving, analytical thinking, and collaboration has been invaluable in navigating transitions between law, finance, and now medicine. It also reinforced a global mindset, which continues to shape how I approach complex challenges.

What triggered your decision to finally transition into medicine after a career in finance?

Over time, I found myself drawn to a more people-centred and purpose-driven career. While finance was intellectually stimulating and very rewarding financially, I wanted to have a more direct and meaningful impact on individuals’ lives. This led me to reflect on my long-standing interest in medicine and ultimately pursue a path where I could combine analytical skills with patient care and human connection.

In your book, you explore personal transformation through a medical and behavioral science perspective. What is one key lesson that you believe Schiller students can apply directly to improve how they learn, make decisions, or build their future careers?

One key lesson is that small, consistent changes are far more powerful than occasional bursts of effort. From a behavioural science perspective, our outcomes are largely shaped by our daily systems and habits rather than single decisions. For students, this means focusing on building sustainable routines, whether in studying, networking, or skill development, rather than relying on short-term intensity. Over time, these small actions compound and lead to significant results.

Your journey shows that careers don’t have to be linear—how can students stay open to evolving their path over time?

Staying open requires both self-awareness and flexibility. It’s important to regularly reflect on what genuinely interests and motivates you, while also being willing to adapt as new opportunities arise. Rather than seeing a career as a fixed path, it helps to view it as a series of evolving stages. Each experience, whether in a different field or role, builds transferable skills that can be applied in unexpected ways. Being open to change is not a lack of direction; it’s a strength in a rapidly changing world.

What advice would you give to current students to help them make the most of their Schiller experience?

Take full advantage of the international environment. Engage with people from different backgrounds, challenge your assumptions, and step outside your comfort zone. Beyond academics, focus on building relationships and developing skills that will serve you long-term, communication, adaptability, and critical thinking. Also, be intentional with your time: explore opportunities, but align them with your broader goals and values.