For the 199 medical and dental students entering Harvard Medical School and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, receiving their white coats at a ceremony on the HMS Quad on July 31 symbolized their entry into training for their chosen careers.
It also represented their hopes, said Bernard Chang, the new HMS dean for medical education.
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“The white coat is a symbol of your aspiration to learn how to best treat those who need your help, your aspiration to discover new ways of maintaining the health of your patients and of delivering care to them, and your aspiration to share your knowledge with your colleagues and with the broader community,” he said.
Chang added that the white coat symbolizes collective achievements in medicine made throughout history, including accomplishments during the COVID pandemic, while also reminding those in the profession that there is a need to do better.
“We have an aspiration, and indeed an obligation, to redress centuries of racism, discrimination, and structural inequities that have plagued our profession,” he said.
During their first week, the new students became familiar with the Longwood campus, the greater Boston area, and the resources available to them at Harvard; met their classmates, faculty, deans, and support staff; and tasted the learning that lies ahead.
Get to know the Class of 2027
White Coat Ceremony
Watch the White Coat Ceremony
Medical and dental students receive their white coats, introduce themselves
Watch the Class Oath video
Class of 2027 recites the pledge they wrote to their future patients
