Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Occupational Therapy 1st year students experienced the enthusiasm of wearing white coats. The ceremony, organized with the participation of the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Arif Aktuğ Ertekin and Head of the Department of Occupational Therapy, Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova, as well as department academics, students, and parents, garnered intense interest. Students experiencing the excitement of wearing their white coats took a step towards their professional lives.
The white coat ceremony held at Üsküdar University NP Health Campus, İbni Sina Auditorium, received intense interest from participants.
Bergüzar Akbıyık: “We will work hard to improve people's quality of life”
Bergüzar Akbıyık, a 1st-year student of the Department of Occupational Therapy, delivered the opening speech at the white coat ceremony. Akbıyık stated; “Today, with this ceremony, we are taking on the responsibility to develop our skills in the field of occupational therapy at Üsküdar University, our home of science, where we have learned and will continue to learn until our graduation, and to practice this sacred profession with these coats. We have set out to complete the next 4 years filled with knowledge and wonderful experiences with our professors, and to embark on our professional lives as occupational therapists.”
Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova: “I am sure that our students will wear these sparkling white coats with honor”
At the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Sevda Asqarova, Head of the Department of Occupational Therapy at Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences, delivered the opening speeches. Starting her speech by congratulating all students and their families, Asqarova drew attention to why occupational therapy is important in the 21st Century. Asqarova stated; “Today we gathered on a very beautiful and special day. On this special day, you will wear your sparkling white coats, which hold great meaning for your profession. My belief in you proudly carrying your coats on this path you have embarked upon is infinite. As a field of science, Occupational Therapy's positive impact on our quality of life is of great importance. Because Occupational Therapy is a ‘Positive Therapy.’ In fact, we can truly say that Occupational Therapy is ‘The Art of Healing People’... As an Occupational Therapist, you will improve a person's situation, whatever it may be, and provide positive touches to their lives by teaching them to enjoy life.”
Prof. Dr. Arif Aktuğ Ertekin: “The memory of this moment is unforgettable…”
Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences Dean Prof. Dr. Arif Aktuğ Ertekin said; “I remembered the moments when I first put on a white coat. The memory of this moment is unforgettable… One feels very emotional and very proud. Occupational therapy is truly a profession that encompasses the basic principles of many branches and supports many departments in this regard. Healthcare is a very beautiful field, a field that touches people. If only we had the opportunity to cure every patient, but unfortunately, the nature of the work is not like that. As health professionals, we are obliged to put forth all our efforts and support to provide health to our patients and to continue the truth of enlightening society.”
Students' Happy Moments…
During the white coat ceremony, the students' oath and the visual spectacle with balloons were watched with appreciation by the guests.
Diyar Eren, a 1st-year Occupational Therapy student, read the poem ‘Occupational Therapy.’ Afterwards, Betül Sümeyye Güney read the poem ‘March 8’ specially for International Women's Day.
The students fully experienced the enthusiasm of wearing their coats, singing with joy.
At the end of the ceremony, a play depicting the ethical values of the occupational therapy profession, organized by occupational therapy students, was staged.
The students' performance was watched with interest…
