Second Year Medical Students Reflect on White Coat Ceremony

Who can even think about wearing a coat in August—unless it’s a white lab coat, a symbolic entry into medical school.

In that case there are 171 University of Cincinnati College of Medicine students eager to take their place in line at the Aronoff Center downtown Friday, Aug. 10, during UC’s traditional "White Coat” ceremony.

"I remember walking up to the stage and feeling really grateful and happy,” second-year med student Calen Steiner says of receiving his coat last year as his wife, Michelle, applauded from the audience. "It’s definitely a celebratory moment, Steiner says, noting that the coat doesn’t just go up on a hook after the ceremony. 

"We get a lot of clinical exposure during our first year and I’ve worn it quite a bit,” he says, adding that the coat gives him a sense of place and responsibility in the health profession. 

"It doesn’t mean I’m a doctor, but I’m proud to be a medical student … and it makes me feel confident that I’m on my way there and that I’m doing to the right things to get there.” 

Since being "coated” is such a profound experience, a few of Steiner’s second-year classmates agreed to offer the incoming class some additional retrospective White Coat wisdom …

"Your white coat is more than just a uniform you will one day wear to work, it’s a symbol of responsibility, compassion and trust.” Sally Woods 

"When you walk into a room, the patient automatically feels as if he can open up to you about things that are extremely personal. When you wear the coat, you are representing the medical profession, so always keep that in mind. However, always remember that patients are humans so you must relate to them on that level first before you look for anything medical.” Meredith Harris

"Remember that this is just a step on a long path to becoming a master physician albeit an important one. Stay humble and don't let it go to your head.” Konstantin Grigoryan 

Tickets are required to attend the event. Students are provided six tickets each, and some may be available at the door. For more information, contact IvaDean Lair at 513-558-5577.