Future Physicians Take Their First Step into the Profession
First-year medical students at the Faculty of Medicine of Cyprus International Univeristy (CIU) took their first step into their professional careers with the White Coat Ceremony organized on March 14 Medicine Day. The ceremony, attended by academics, healthcare professionals, students, and families, emphasized the ethical values and responsibilities of the medical profession. The historical significance of March 14 Medicine Day was also highlighted, noting that this special day symbolizes the beginning of modern medical education and serves as a reminder of physicians’ scientific responsibilities and their dedication to human life.
Dr. Oğulcan Salman, one of the first graduates of CIU Faculty of Medicine, stated in his speech that medical education is a long and demanding process, and students will gain significant experience throughout this journey. He explained that the intense workload, exams, and long shifts are natural parts of the profession, adding that contributing to a patient’s recovery or receiving gratitude makes all the challenges meaningful. He emphasized that being a physician requires always striving to give one’s best.
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Dr. Ayşegül Taylan Özkan, highlighted that the white coat is not merely a piece of clothing but a powerful symbol representing the core values of medicine. She stated that it symbolizes purity, honesty, and commitment to ethical principles, as well as the physician’s responsibility toward science and human health. She also noted that recent global health crises have once again demonstrated the critical role of healthcare professionals in society.
CIU Rector Prof. Dr. Erbuğ Çelebi emphasized that March 14 Medicine Day is a meaningful occasion that reminds us of the humanitarian aspect of the medical profession. He stated that the white coat represents not only academic achievement but also dedication to science, ethical responsibility, and respect for human life. He added that a good physician should not only treat diseases but also understand patients and inspire trust.
The guest of honor, Prof. Dr. Tolga Ulus, delivered a presentation on current research in cardiovascular surgery. He pointed out that cardiovascular diseases remain a major global health issue and noted that developments in stem cell research, regenerative medicine, and tissue engineering offer new hope for the treatment of heart diseases.
As part of the program, a video prepared by senior medical students was also presented. In the video, senior students shared their experiences and offered advice to first-year students about the medical education process. During the ceremony, first-year students participated in the white coat wearing and physician’s oath. By pledging to uphold ethical values and prioritize human health throughout their careers, students took their first symbolic step into the medical profession. The program concluded with an emphasis on the importance of continuing medical education within the framework of scientific advancement, ethical responsibility, and patient-centered healthcare.