Medical School Kickoff Marked by White Coat Ceremony
The University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry recently welcomed its Class of 2027 with a White Coat Ceremony, marking the transition of these aspiring doctors into the medical profession.
The ceremony, held at the Larry and Cindy Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center on August 18, was captured by University of Rochester photographer J. Adam Fenster and University of Rochester Medical Center video producer Douglas Buckley.
Mark B. Taubman, M.D., who is stepping down as Dean of the School of Medicine and Dentistry, Senior Vice President for Health Sciences, and CEO of the medical center, addressed the class. He emphasized the importance of physicians embracing the Rochester-based biopsychosocial model, which treats patients as more than their medical issues.
Joel Pasternack, M.D., Ph.D., a member of the SMD Class of 1980, delivered the keynote address. He shared his experiences and the mentors who shaped his career and emphasized that medical school is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from a wide range of specialists and gain valuable experiences during clinical rotations.
Pasternack also stated that medical care is a priority for society, and physicians are privileged to provide that care and build trust with patients and their families.
The Class of 2027 consists of 105 students, with 15 of them born outside the U.S. Students hail from 26 states, with New York, Massachusetts, and California together accounting for the top 3 spots. The average age of the class is 24.
Fourth-year medical student Malayna Hocker shared thoughts about the first three years of medical school and advised the Class of 2027 about upcoming challenges. She emphasized that students will make mistakes and struggle at times but can still be incredible healers.
David R. Lambert, M.D., senior associate dean for Medical Student Education, Flavia Nobay, M.D., associate dean of Student Affairs, and Christine Hay, M.D., associate dean of Admissions were present at the ceremony.
Students in the Class of 2027 know 23 languages, including ASL. Photos and videos of the ceremony can be found on the University's Facebook, Instagram, and official video pages.
- During Joel Pasternack's keynote address, he highlighted the importance of physicians not only focusing on medical conditions but also understanding health-and-wellness, as well as considering science and education-and-self-development in the holistic approach to patient care.
- The Class of 2027, with its diverse background of 26 states and 15 international students speaking 23 languages including ASL, will be well-equipped to navigate the field of medical care with a broad understanding of various societal and cultural aspects.
