I slipped on the way to the White Coat Ceremony. Luckily, I caught myself. With my hands. So my rear end was sticking up in the air a la Nicki Minaj in her latest video. I was in a pencil skirt and a white button-down blouse. It was all very professional, I assure you, although I hate to use the word professional considering my position. It just so happens that my ironed white coat was also in my hands at the time, and before you ask, yes there were witnesses. There's a lot of construction on campus (the pretty views make up for the dust) and I was rushing through some sort of red construction sand. For those of you ready to hate on me, I was in ballet flats although I did want to wear the heels!
I was dismayed that the state of my white coat was . . . less white. Thankfully, I was able to dust off the coat, return to standing on two legs and proceed with what little dignity I had left. To compound problems, I was wearing make-up in 1000 degree weather with accompanying island humidity. As I got to the venue in an all-out dripping sweat, I started fanning myself with my name-card and tried not to lick the sweat starting to run over my upper lip. I felt a bit like a chocolate fondue fountain at this point, but I persisted.
I was rewarded with a surprisingly upbeat and uplifting ceremony. The Master of Ceremony (oncologist) was a successful SGU graduate as was the speaker (rheumatologist) who reminded me of why I chose this path, to be able to alleviate suffering in some small way. Both the MC and the keynote mentioned the importance of truly connecting with patients so that they trust you to take care of them. The speaker recommended keeping a "Sunshine Folder" with a collection of cards, letters and pictures of and from patients to remind us of why we do what we do, because despite our every effort there will be poor outcomes. I learned that there are 2 things that make a great doctor: curiosity and never giving less than your very best. I hope, when I actually start practicing medicine, both can be said of me.
I took an oath there. I promised to work alongside my colleagues with tolerance, compassion and honesty and that my interests would be subservient to those who seek my assistance. I promised to conduct myself with integrity and do all within my power to show in myself an example of all that is honorable and good throughout my medical career. Lastly, I acknowledged my obligation to pursue knowledge and understanding until that day when I will cease to be a practicing physician (excerpts from the Professional Commitment written by the Student Ethics Task Force and Alexander P. Ross). I cried and couldn't speak through parts of the oath. I had to pull myself together and finish saying the words. Truthfully, I don't know if I can live up to this standard, but I'm going to give it a try.
Despite a "rocky" start, I'm really glad I went and was reminded of why I'm here.
