AUS holds eighth White Coat Ceremony

Humility, compassion and integrity were some of the words uttered by keynote speaker, Dr Samuel Hazell, at the American University of St Vincent’s (AUS) 8th White Coat Ceremony.{{more}}

Dr Hazell, consultant general surgeon at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, reminded the aspiring physicians of the need to serve humanity and reiterated the importance of treating the patient with the disease, rather than just treating the disease. His very inspiring and motivating speech captured the attention of the 22 medical students of varied backgrounds who were preparing to embark on the journey of a noble career. Hence, they not only donned their first white coats, but they were also recipients of a powerful message from a Vincentian doctor, who willingly shared his wealth of experiences from the field of medicine.

This special event was held at the Murray Heights hotel on Friday, September 11, 2015. The diverse bunch of students beamed with excitement and enthusiasm at an occasion, which often symbolizes a significant milestone in the lives of medical students. Individuals from countries like Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, St Vincent and the Grenadines, India and the United States of America contributed to the cultural mosaic which is seen at AUS.

Dean of AUS Dr Dommalur Jayarangaiah encouraged the prospective physicians to be disciplined and studious, so that their goals may be realized. Dr Shakel Henson, senior lecturer at AUS, welcomed the students to the institution and to the beautiful gem of the Antilles, St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). She reiterated the need to remain committed to the field of medicine. Additionally, Dr Henson emphasized the significance of accumulating knowledge as this better prepares physicians to efficiently and effectively manage and care for their patients. Overall, the message of doctors serving their patients, as stressed by Dr Hazell, was the general theme of AUS’ 8th White Coat Ceremony.

It was the words of the Hippocratic Oath which formed the core of the memorable keynote address given by Dr Samuel Hazell, a proud product of Bequia. He gave the students a vital lesson on the need to continue on the path of selflessly caring for and serving their patients.

The aspiring physicians were further motivated by a fellow student, president of the AUS’ Student Government Association, Barisa Kamenebali. He advised the students to continue along their chosen path; to be positive; and to utilize all resources as they strive to succeed.

The event was witnessed by the faculty and staff of AUS, senior students, family members, friends and well-wishers, including Dr Charles Woods, medical director and consultant orthopaedic surgeon at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. AUS’ dean, Dr Dommalur Jayarangaiah, and the Campus Operations manager, Syam SL, were pleased with the evening’s event and vowed that AUS’ White Coat ceremonies in the future are likely to witness even more students entering its medical programme. New students, enrolled in the pre-medical programme, were also present at the ceremony.

First established in 2012, the American University of St Vincent is a medical school which is located in New Montrose, St Vincent and the Grenadines. AUS is locally registered with the National Accreditation Board of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

(Contributed by Shakel Henson, BSc, MPH, MD, MSc)