Columbia University’s health sciences schools marked the beginning of the academic year by welcoming new students across several programs. The College of Dental Medicine, School of Nursing, and Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons each held ceremonies to recognize their incoming classes.
On August 4, 2025, the College of Dental Medicine held a white coat ceremony for 92 students entering the Class of 2029. This event marked the official start of their dental education.
The School of Nursing continued its tradition on August 7 with its annual Masters Direct Entry (MDE) pinning ceremony. At this event, 175 new students received pins that symbolize their readiness to address society’s health needs after completing the program. The pinning tradition at Columbia Nursing dates back to the 1860s.
On August 8, faculty at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons welcomed 140 new medical students during their White Coat Ceremony. After receiving their white coats from faculty members, students recited an Oath in the Hippocratic tradition. This oath was written and voted on by members of the Class of 2029 and reflects values they aim to uphold throughout their training. The tradition of composing a class oath began in 2021.
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