The White Coat Ceremony marks a defining moment in a medical student’s journey. It’s the day they officially begin their path to becoming physicians—donning their short white coats for the first time, surrounded by family, friends, and mentors. They’ll earn the long coats worn by physicians after graduation.
To celebrate the milestone and support our future doctors, the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine holds an annual White Coat Scholarship drive in the weeks leading up to the ceremony.
“Being able to focus on paying my medical bills, knowing that a portion of my school fees will be taken care of, means the world to me and my family,” said Emily Diaz, a Class of 2028 scholarship recipient who is navigating her second skin cancer diagnosis.
Join the tradition—support the incoming MD Class of 2029.
Donors who give $100 or more receive a special opportunity: They can include a personal message tucked inside a student’s white coat pocket—a note of encouragement that students discover during the ceremony.
Last year, thanks to the generosity of more than 115 donors, including family members, faculty, and alumni, the college awarded three $5,000 scholarships and placed a personalized note in the pocket of each of the 123 incoming students.
“The scholarship has greatly eased the financial burden of medical school, especially since I’ve been relying on student loans,” said Thomas Kanoa King, another scholarship recipient from the MD Class of 2028. “It lifts a significant weight off my shoulders and allows me to focus on my studies and extracurricular pursuits.”
King is an officer in the U.S. Army Reserves who was inspired to pursue medicine after witnessing his mother’s journey with breast cancer.
“As the cost of living in Miami remains among the highest in the nation, scholarships are more essential than ever—not just to help cover tuition and living expenses, but also to support the many additional expenses that come with medical school,” said Naomi Nixon, associate dean for Development. From traveling to present research at national conferences to covering costs for out-of-town clinical rotations, students face significant financial demands. “Scholarships make these critical learning opportunities possible,” she says.
The White Coat Ceremony for the incoming MD Class of 2029 is on August 1. Support the White Coat Scholarship Initiative by donating here.