Incoming Tucson Medical Students Receive White Coats
The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson Class of 2024 is entering medical school at a time when medical services and our community’s health are more important than ever. A rite of passage for incoming medical students, the White Coat Ceremony signifies a student’s acceptance into medical school and their commitment to compassionate patient care. After being robed with their first coats and given stethoscopes, students recite an oath acknowledging their dedication to patients.
In recognition of the pandemic, the Class of 2024 skipped the White Coat Ceremony and instead broke into groups of six to get to know each other in a more intimate setting. Small groups were divided by “Societies Houses,” each of which is led by a house dean who provides career counseling and support as students train to be physicians. Wearing face masks and practicing safe physical distancing, the Class of 2024 received their coats and met their house deans, who told them what to expect on their med school journeys.
White coats in hand, three new members of the Class of 2024 leave the College of Medicine – Tucson building. From left: Lupita Molina, Julia Alvarenga Couto and Lawrence Sun.
Each member of the Class of 2024 received a white coat and this inspiring message to fuel their journey through medical school.
First-year medical student Faysal Stipho dons his white coat to become part of the College of Medicine – Tucson Class of 2024.
Practicing safe physical distancing, Rincon House students are greeted by their house dean Violet Siwik, MD (right). Back row, from left: Yash Suri and Monica Diaz. Front row, from left: Leigh Myles, Isabelle Chea, Leen Ayyoub, and Craig McClure, MD, mentor for Rincon House students.
First-year medical student Michael Kim receives his white coat and meets his house dean, who tells students what they can expect from their four-year journey through medical school.
First-year medical student Daniel Nguyen of Santa Rita House tries on his white coat while first-year medical student Ahmed Al-Shamari takes a selfie with his new colleague.
Members of Santa Rita House model face masks and white coats. From left: Daniel Nguyen, Bailey Antonowicz, April Huckleberry, Ethan Hill and Ahmed Al-Shamari.
First-year medical student Maithili Khandekar proudly displays her white coat.