Excitement fills the halls once again as the University of Louisville School of Medicine welcomes its newest cohort of medical students, the class of 2028. Orientation began on July 22 and culminated with the ever-celebrated White Coat Ceremony on July 28. The week promised a blend of tradition, camaraderie, and invaluable introductions to their medical journey in Louisville.

“We are delighted to welcome the Class of 2028 to the School of Medicine,” said Jeffrey Bumpous, M.D., dean of the School of Medicine. “This cohort is filled with bright, inspired minds and we are excited to be a part of their journey to medicine.”

As the anticipation of the upcoming journey set in, the incoming first year medical students enjoyed a week of orientation events to not only familiarize themselves with the city of Louisville, but foster bonds among classmates that would endure throughout their medical education. Key events included Trivia Night at Ten20 Brewery and a cruise on the Belle of Louisville.

The incoming class was also able to get their first taste of the Advisory College Program, an essential aspect of learning designed to create relationships between students at varying levels of their journey within the School of Medicine.

“First year medical students are often in a new city with new people, and adjusting to their environment is crucial to their success. Advisory Colleges allow students to have Advisory Deans, College Advocates, and Student Mentors at their fingertips to allow for an easier transition,” said Ann Shaw, M.D., vice dean for Undergraduate Medical Education. “This year, we are proud to announce a new Advisory College, named after dean emeritus Toni Ganzel.”

Following a week of exploring their new home, the students gathered in the Grand Ballroom of the Galt House to recite the Hippocratic Oath and receive their white coats in the traditional White Coat Ceremony. The White Coat Ceremony emphasizes their responsibilities as future physicians and of the importance of providing only the highest quality care for patients.

Looking ahead, first-year students will further integrate into the ULSOM community through events and opportunities such as the Involvement Fair and the College Cup, where friendly competition and collaboration will be on full display.

Photos from the White Coat Ceremony are available here.