First Steps into Medicine: How the Class of 2029 Created Their Own Promise to the Profession
(Photo Credit: Julianna Cross, FAU Schmidt College of Medicine)
The Schmidt College of Medicine lobby buzzed with nervous energy on Monday morning, July 28, 2025. The incoming Class of 2029 gathered for the first time as the College's newest future physicians. These students, representing 12 states and over 30 undergraduate institutions, were ready to begin orientation week.
"My friend and I were so nervous when we arrived," admitted M1 student Preethi Rao. "But it was nice to speak with faculty in the morning—they were so welcoming and made us feel comfortable."
That welcoming atmosphere resonated throughout the lobby. M1 student Shohag Shahadur agreed, describing it as "a very supportive environment—and the staff felt like a family."
That sense of belonging would define the next five days, as Orientation Week evolved from logistical introductions into something far more meaningful: the creation of shared values and purpose as they enter the medical profession.
A Class Built for Excellence
The Class of 2029 represents exceptional academic achievement among the College's applicant pool. Selected from over 4,200 applications, this accomplished group brings varied educational backgrounds and life experiences that will enrich their medical school journey.
Seventy-two percent are from Florida, while 28% traveled from 11 other states to join the MedOwls family. Their undergraduate journeys span universities across the country, alongside strong representation from in-state institutions. Sixteen students earned their bachelor's degrees from Florida Atlantic University, while one completed the university's Biomedical Science master's program.
This range of backgrounds prepared students well for the collaborative work that would define their orientation experience.
Beyond Orientation: Building Character Through Conversation
While the week included essential elements—academic policies, campus tours, white coat fittings - its heart lay in deeper work. Students gathered in small groups for conversations facilitated by faculty advisors to explore the ethical foundations of medicine. Through clinical cases and reflective dialogue, they discovered concepts that would define their professional lives: the development of trust, the cultivation of empathy and compassion, and respect for patient autonomy.
At the heart of these discussions was creating their own Student Oath, a code of conduct to guide them through their educational journey and beyond. "What excites me most about the Class of 2029 is not just their impressive academic credentials, but their eagerness to engage actively in their personal and professional development from day one,” said Jennifer Caceres, M.D., Vice Dean for Medical Education. “It is evident from this week that they already understand that being a MedOwl means embodying integrity, compassion, and service even when no one is watching."
These conversations weren't limited to lofty ideals. Students openly shared fears about imposter syndrome and the vulnerability of stepping into their new identities, while faculty mentors created safe spaces for honest self-reflection.
Finding Community in Collaboration
The week was balanced with moments of nervousness and moments of joy. Students learned of their academic societies through an exciting 'Big Reveal' during orientation. These societies will serve as supportive learning communities throughout their MedOwl journey. When students opened their society placement boxes, blue and red confetti scattered through the auditorium as Drew and Blackwell societies claimed their new members.
"It was fun to look around and see who was placed in each society," said Tomas Gayoso, a new Drew member. "I was happy to have my roommate in my society."
Hunter Scott from the Blackwell Society captured the spirit: "The Rock, Paper, Scissors war was a great way to cheer people on and feel like you were part of a community."
These moments served a deeper purpose, creating the early connections that reassured students that they already have a built-in support system for the years ahead. During ice-breaker activities, campus tours, and meals with career advisors, the Class of 2029 began forming the bonds that transform classmates into family.
The Promise Made Real
Friday's White Coat Ceremony at the Kaye Auditorium transformed individual aspirations into collective commitment. As family and friends watched, each student stepped forward to receive their first white coat—the traditional symbol of their entry into the medical profession.
Nine student representatives took the stage to lead the recitation of the Student Oath they had crafted together, reflecting their shared promise to each other and the patients they will serve.
M2 student Jacob Kalathoor, reflecting on his own orientation experience, captured the significance: "It's hard to imagine it's been a full year since our orientation. By the end of that week, when putting on that white coat with all of my peers in front of our family and loved ones, I knew I was at home."
His classmate Tate Davies agreed: "Orientation week was such a memorable start to medical school! Between meeting classmates, exploring the awesome facilities, and donning my first white coat, orientation lived up to the hype!"
A Journey That Begins with Promise
As the Class of 2029 steps into their path toward becoming physicians, they carry the values they defined together: integrity, compassion, reflection, and community.
"Class of 2029, embrace the power of teamwork that defines our college and healthcare today," said Lewis S. Nelson, M.D., Dean of the Schmidt College of Medicine. "Support each other through the challenges ahead, because the bonds you form here will sustain your careers."
The Student Oath they created together will echo in hospital corridors and patient rooms for decades to come. What began as strangers gathering nervously in a lobby has become something enduring - a bond forged by a shared commitment to healing. As they move forward with textbooks and lectures ahead, they possess something deeper - the heart of what it means to be a physician. In the MedOwls community, their oath is one they'll never have to uphold alone.
