“Amid this uncertainty, our patients will look to us for answers, for reassurance, and for hope,” Olugbade said. “You don’t need to have all the answers — I definitely don’t, and no one does. But as future physicians, our strength lies in our ability to step into uncertainty, listen, act with compassion, use our voices and lead.”

The symbolism of the white coat

Dr. Benjamin Brown, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology who received his M.D. from the Warren Alpert Medical School in 2012, addressed the new students and reflected on the true meaning of the white coat and how his experiences as a medical student and physician shaped him. He said his old white coats, with all their stains and wear, remind him of his days as a trainee as well as past patients who taught him everything from how to start an I.V. to how to give comfort and counsel.

“I would not have learned any of these things without my white coat — without my patients granting me the privilege to accompany them,” Brown said. “Just as my Quaker school taught me when I was very young, wearing a white coat has taught me time and again that wisdom can come from anyone in our community. We should listen when people speak.”

Brown recalled his time testifying before a committee at the Rhode Island State House on access to abortion. He wore his white coat as a “reminder of humanity” he shares with patients.

“Do not let your white coat separate you from your patients,” Brown said. “Your white coat is not a symbol of otherness. It is not a symbol of superiority. It is a symbol of humanity and of humility. It is a symbol of your commitment to go with your patients and to allow yourself to be changed by them.”

After the ceremony, first-year medical student Victor Damptey said the reality of receiving his white coat had settled in. He said he was thankful to be able to share the moment with his family and classmates.

“I’ve always been interested in helping people, whether that’s through technology, engineering or face-to-face interactions,” Damptey said. “Being here at Brown has enabled me to put all those skills together to be able to help my community.”

Another newly coated medical student, Julia Contini, said she is excited to attend clinical rotations and see different specialties, as she explores potential educational and career options.

“It’s so exciting to be here with all my classmates and all our families and friends, just to celebrate such an exciting journey to come,” Contini said.

Contini’s family in attendance included her aunt, Dr. Elena Massarotti, a rheumatologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. Massarotti said working in medicine would fulfill all of her niece’s dreams. 

“It’s a great profession, and I told her to learn the material well and do what she loves — whatever it is,” Massarotti said.