The white coat ceremony for Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy was a day of pride for all involved, but it was particularly special for Max Michael. Michael’s mother, Beth Michael, is a physical therapist, and had the honor of robing her son.
“Going into college, I really didn’t have much of an idea what I wanted to do, and I kind of arrived there on my own. And of course, she was in physical therapy all along, and I had seen that and what it looked like. I’m excited the legacy could be passed on. It was a proud moment for both of us,” said Max.
“When he told me about the ceremony and that I would be able to put his coat on him, it was just such an honor. It delighted me,” said Beth.
The white coat ceremony is a relatively new event in medical and healthcare professions that marks the students’ transition from the study of preclinical to the application of clinical health sciences.
“White coat ceremonies are considered a rite of passage in the journey toward a healthcare career,” said Dr. Debbie Ingram, Head of the Physical Therapy Department and Director of Clinical Education. “It emphasizes physical therapy ethics and praises rising students for their success in completing the basic science coursework.”
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