John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
Stanford Medicine recently welcomed new MD and PA students in its annual white coat ceremonies, marking the beginning of their journey into the medical profession. Among the new cohort is Nathan Camarillo, whose early life experiences inspired him to pursue a career in medicine. “Growing up, I really did not even see myself going to college,” said Camarillo. Watching physicians restore his mother’s health after a heart attack motivated him to aim for a career where he could address health injustices.
On Friday, Camarillo joined 89 other members of the School of Medicine’s class of 2028 in donning their white coats for the first time. The ceremony also included students from Stanford's physician assistant (PA) program. Each student received a personalized white coat and recited the Stanford Affirmation, committing themselves to serve humanity.
Lloyd Minor, MD, dean of the School of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs at Stanford University, addressed both ceremonies. He highlighted the importance of focusing on illness prevention and predicted that students would have significant opportunities to advance medical practice through patient interactions.
Rhonda Larsen, MHS, PA-C, associate program director, encouraged PA students to embrace their educational challenges with courage and enthusiasm. Incoming PA student My Vu shared her excitement about starting her studies at Stanford after immigrating from Vietnam and being inspired by a helpful PA who cared for her grandmother.
During the MD ceremony, Minor emphasized connecting with faculty, peers, and patients as essential components of professional development. He also underscored the role students will play in integrating artificial intelligence into medicine responsibly.
Vol Van Dalsem, MD, clinical professor of radiology and past president of the Stanford Medicine Alumni Association board of governors, spoke about maintaining patient-centered care as a core value. “It’s important to remember that we serve the patient first, last, and always,” he said.
After receiving their white coats and stethoscopes on stage—accompanied by cheers from family members—the new medical students pledged to uphold medical integrity and prioritize patient care. They then celebrated with their families at a reception filled with anticipation for their future roles in healthcare.
Camarillo expressed his eagerness despite acknowledging the upcoming challenges: “It’s like being a kid in a candy shop here,” he said about his opportunity at Stanford.
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