Celebrating the Start of a New Journey: UIW School of Osteopathic Medicine Hosts White Coat Ceremony

On August 20, 1993, The Arnold P. Gold Foundation White Coat Ceremony was first held at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons as a rite of passage for students entering the healthcare field. The White Coat Ceremony is now conducted at numerous medical schools in the United States (gold-foundation.org).

On Saturday, Aug. 6, the UIW School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM) honored the Class of 2029 at their annual White Coat Ceremony at the Boeing Tech Port. This ceremony signifies the beginning of student doctors' academic journeys at UIWSOM. As they progress through the next four years of their education, they will grow into the next generation of exemplary health professionals who will heal their neighbors.

"Today is a significant milestone for our student physicians," opened Dean of UIWSOM Dr. John T Pham. "We are here to celebrate these future physicians as they receive their White Coats and take the Osteopathic Pledge of Commitment. The White Coat Ceremony is a rite of passage, signifying the importance of the life's work our students are about to embrace."

Honored guests that joined in supporting UIWSOM's latest class included UIW President Dr. Thomas M. Evans, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Eva Fernandez and the recent past President of the American Osteopathic Association Dr. Teresa Hubka.

Before students were presented with their white coats, Dr. Pham took the time to acknowledge some notable qualities of the ceremonies honored students. With the Class of 2029 being comprised of 161 students, 77% are Texas natives, the majority graduated with science-based undergraduate degrees and 27 of the class's members presently hold a master's degree.

"You were chosen from over 3600 applicants and more than 700 interviews to fill these seats," noted Pham. "Your selection was made with great care and a sincere belief that we will welcome you into our profession in the future and entrust our lives to you in later years … Today, you will receive your student physician white coat, a meaningful symbol of the future you have chosen. Treat it with pride and respect."

One by one, each student was presented with their white coat by a UIWSOM faculty member. Each student doctor wore a proud smile as they were met with the thunderous applause of their family, friends, loved ones, mentors and University leadership. The ceremony concluded with each student wearing their white coat, ambition in their eyes as they begin their respective journeys toward becoming doctors.

"The white coat ceremony was such a surreal experience," expressed Amber Karimee, first-year UIWSOM medical student. "Not only does the white coat symbolize the beginning of a new journey, but it also highlighted all the work and perseverance each student has gone through in order to even be in medical school. Being surrounded by my friends and family made the moment even more special. They were my support system at times I thought I couldn't do it. Now, they give me confidence and appreciation for this new journey and make me believe that I can be a great physician in the future!"

Congratulations, UIWSOM Class of 2029!