For aspiring doctors, being accepted into medical school is a tremendous milestone, but there’s a moment early on that makes it all feel real. That moment is the White Coat Ceremony.
Held at medical schools across the globe, this iconic tradition represents the official start of a student’s journey into the field of medicine. But what exactly is the White Coat Ceremony? And why does it matter so much?
Take a closer look at what this emotional and symbolic event means for students, their families, and the future of healthcare.
A tradition of purpose and promise
Introduced in 1993 by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation, the ceremony was created to emphasize the importance of humanism in healthcare from the very start of a physician’s training.
Unlike a graduation, the White Coat Ceremony takes place at the very beginning of medical school, signifying each student’s pledge to uphold values like empathy, integrity, respect, and professionalism.
St. George’s University School of Medicine hosted its first White Coat Ceremony in 1996, just a few years after the tradition was introduced in the US. SGU was one of the first international medical schools to adopt the ceremony, and it continues to be one of the most memorable moments in a medical student’s life.
For Keegan Savage, a first-term SOM student, from Plymouth, MA, attending her White Coat Ceremony felt surreal.
“It feels like all of my dreams are falling into place,” she says. “I honestly can’t believe that I’m here right now. I still feel like the little girl that would dream of this very moment.”
This meaningful ritual is closely aligned with the mission of the Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS), also established by the Gold Foundation. GHHS honors students, residents, and faculty who exemplify excellence in clinical care, leadership, compassion, and dedication to service.
Since establishing its chapter in 2005, SGU has inducted medical students into GHHS who exemplify those ideals—leaders in their class who show empathy, integrity, and a strong commitment to patient-centered care. These future physicians embody the very ideals the White Coat Ceremony was created to celebrate.
What happens during the White Coat Ceremony?
The White Coat Ceremony is more than just a photo op. It’s a rite of passage, a formal welcome into the medical profession. During the event, each new student is helped into a short white physician’s coat, symbolizing their transition from student to doctor-in-training.
The ceremony includes the recitation of an oath, sometimes the traditional Hippocratic Oath, other times a modern or student-authored version—affirming the values of ethical practice, patient care, and lifelong learning.
At SGU, the oath is a moment of reflection and responsibility.
“As you don your white physician’s coats, you pledge an oath of professionalism and service,” says Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine. “Professionalism is a commitment to integrity, altruism, competence, and ethics in the service of others. We must endeavor to honor the sacred trust and privilege society places on medical professionals.”
For SGU students, this unforgettable moment takes place at the beginning of each new term. Loved ones fill the audience, watching with pride as students step into a role that demands compassion, commitment, and courage.
“Getting this white coat marks a huge accomplishment for me,” shares Jonathan Koger, a first-term SOM student from North Carolina. “There’s been years of steps to get here, and I feel like this is a solidifying moment for me to actually have this coat.”
White coats, big dreams
Beyond the ceremony itself, the day is filled with excitement, pride, and sometimes even a few happy tears. For many medical students, it’s the first time they’re publicly acknowledged as future physicians. For SGU legacy families, parents and siblings who are SGU alumni, the moment takes on an even deeper meaning.
“Having my dad coat me at the White Coat Ceremony made this milestone incredibly meaningful,” says Chase Brandow, a first-term SOM student. “His support has shaped my path, and I’m honored to take this step toward becoming a physician with him by my side.”
Chase was coated by his father, Dr. Kirk Brandow, a 1982 SGU alumnus and the founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery.
Dr. Brandow said he was deeply moved by the moment and impressed by how much the University has evolved.
“Watching Chase take this first step toward becoming a physician filled me with immense pride,” he says. “It’s amazing to be back on campus. SGU has grown so much since my time here, and I’m excited that my son will benefit from all it has to offer.”
Curious to know what it feels like to put on the white coat?
Do you dream of wearing your own white coat? Get inspired by current SGU School of Medicine students. Catch all the joy and heartwarming moments from past White Coat Ceremonies on SGU’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.
The White Coat Ceremony is only one step at the beginning of your path to becoming a doctor. Map out your route to becoming a physician with our free resource, Journey to Becoming an MD.
