MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine Celebrates D.O. Class of 2030 at White Coat Ceremony

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The Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine presented white coats to its newest class of future physicians on Aug. 14 as members of the D.O. Class of 2030 gathered with family, friends, faculty and staff for the college’s annual Convocation ceremony.

Held at the Breslin Center, the ceremony marked an important milestone for the incoming students as they formally began their journey toward becoming osteopathic physicians. The presentation of white coats symbolizes the students’ entrance into the medical profession and the responsibilities they will carry throughout their education and future careers.

Dean Joyce DeJong, D.O., welcomed the Class of 2030 and encouraged students to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead as they begin their medical education at MSUCOM.

“Some days, you will feel brilliant. Other days, an anatomy image will make you wonder whether humans have always had that part. When you know the answer, share it clearly. When you do not, say, ‘I don't know yet, but I will keep looking.’"

The ceremony’s keynote address was delivered by John Popovich, Ph.D., DPT, ATC, associate director of the MSU Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Clinical Research and associate professor in the MSUCOM Department of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine. Drawing on his experience in physical therapy and neuromusculoskeletal research, Dr. Popovich shared reflections and advice with the incoming class as they embark on their journey through medical school.

“Putting on that white coat commits you to something. It is a commitment to your patients: to pay attention, to be honest about what you know and don’t know, to take responsibility and to keep learning from every patient entrusted to your care.”

Mehdi Abed, MSUCOM Student Government Association president and a second-year D.O. student, also addressed the incoming students. As a current medical student, Abed offered the Class of 2030 a perspective on the experiences, such as study groups and preparing for tough exams, relationships and opportunities that await them during their time at MSUCOM.

Michigan Osteopathic Association (MOA) President Adam Hunt, D.O., MHS, FACEP, joined the ceremony as a guest speaker, welcoming the newest members of Michigan’s osteopathic medical community and emphasizing the role they will play in the future of health care.

The Class of 2030 now begins its medical education at MSUCOM, joining a community of students, educators, researchers and physicians dedicated to advancing health and serving patients and communities throughout Michigan and beyond.

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