Historically rich with symbolism in medicine, the white coat denotes trust, expertise, and professionalism, and its formal presentation is a transformative rite of passage, heavy with the profound responsibilities and ethical commitments it represents.
Stepping to the podium at Lisner Auditorium to deliver the keynote address for the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) 26th Annual White Coat and Honor Code Ceremony, Sept. 7, Christina Prather encouraged the MD program Class of 2028 and their family members in attendance to reflect on those values.
A white coat, said Prather, who serves as associate professor of medicine at SMHS and director of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the GW Medical Faculty Associates, is as a visible reminder of the obligations and responsibilities of being a doctor.
“Today you’re going to put on your white coat for the first time,” she said. “You’re going to look different and probably feel a little different. Maybe proud. Maybe a little comfortable. Maybe a little excited. That’s perfect, because you are just beginning to understand what it means to wear this coat.”
The coat, she continued, gives patients permission to be truly vulnerable with their physicians, to share the most private aspects of their lives.
“You are beginning an incredible journey and one that you will not do alone. Like most things worth doing, it will not be easy,” she said. “But all of us on this stage, and the faculty you meet along the way, are here to support you, as are all of us who have supported you on your journey to being here now.”
In her welcoming remarks, SMHS Dean Barbara Lee Bass, MD, FACS, professor of surgery, Walter A. Bloedorn Chair of Administrative Medicine and vice president for health affairs, took a moment to acknowledge the accomplishments that led the students to this moment and thanked the family and friends on hand to bear witness to this first solemn step in their health care careers.
“Medicine as a career will extract much from your life — time, lost moments with friends and loved ones, and often even your energy at key times, events, and moments,” she said.
“But in return, medicine will reward you with amazing joy, knowledge,wisdom, the unparalleled human connection in service to others of exceptional magnitude and personal impact. Medicine as a career is so worth it.”
Continuing a 26-year tradition, first-year SMHS medical students received a commemorative reflex hammer, recited the SMHS oath, signed an honor code, and pledged their commitment to medicine, with family, friends and future colleagues as their witnesses. Beyond the remarks and the pageantry of the annual rite of passage, the highlight is always the receipt of their first short white coats, marking the official start of their medical careers.
The event is sponsored by the GW Medical Alumni Association and the White Coat Initiative and provides financial support for the white coats. It also allows SMHS alumni to forge relationships with students entering the field and to welcome them into the professional community.
Amy Yi, MD Class of 2025, served as this year’s student speaker. The Alaska native reflected on the first three years of her medical school journey, telling her new colleagues to push beyond their early doubts and imposter syndrome.
“Trust in yourself,” she said. “Hold on to your why and strive to be better every day. Understand that growth and success aren’t linear. They often come with many hurdles. Lean into your community when you need it. Ask for help and know your limits. You belong here.”
