3rd and 4th-year students of Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, experienced the excitement of donning their white coats. The traditional white coat ceremony also drew significant interest from the students' families.
The ceremony, led by Prof. Dr. Deniz Demirci, Head of the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department, was held at the Avicenna Auditorium Conference Hall of the NP Dental and Health Campus. Following the ceremony, which began with a moment of silence and the recitation of the National Anthem, opening speeches were delivered.
Prof. Dr. Deniz Demirci: “Wearing a white coat is a privilege”
The first of the opening speeches was delivered by Prof. Dr. Deniz Demirci, Head of the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department. Demirci offered advice to the students who would be donning their white coats; “Wearing a white coat is a privilege. Know this, and always feel the responsibility of this privilege. Wearing a white coat is also challenging. It can easily get dirty, but never allow the conscientious, ethical, and humanitarian values represented by the white coat to be stained, let alone dirtied.” he stated.
Prof. Dr. Arif Altuğ Ertekin: “You will touch people and bring healing to some”
Subsequently, Prof. Dr. Arif Aktuğ Ertekin, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, came to the podium to deliver his speech; “Seeing such a community before me, it is impossible not to feel emotional, both for our university and for the profession. You have chosen this profession. You will touch people and bring healing to some. By donning this coat, you too will join the healthcare community, and I believe you will achieve great things. I believe that some of you will pursue the educational and academic aspects of this work. I congratulate all of you.” he said.
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Zelka: “The value of the service you provide is immeasurable”
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Zelka, Vice Rector of Üsküdar University, speaking about the students taking another step closer to assuming professional responsibility; “There are certain days in student life that hold special meanings. You are taking another step closer to assuming professional responsibility. With the donning of this coat, you are granted authorities and responsibilities. You will carry the responsibility that comes with the white coat to the fullest. Do not measure or demean the value of your service by the fee you will receive. The worth of the service you provide is immeasurably important. I wish you success in your lives.” he stated.
The ceremony concluded after a group commemorative photo session.