Welcome Class of 2028!
The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine welcomed 150 students of the Class of 2028 in the annual White Coat ceremony on Friday, August 16.
A record high 58% of the incoming class are first generation college students with a 29% increase in Underrepresented in Medicine (UIM) students (Hispanic/Latino, African American, and American Indian/Alaska Native) over last year. This is the first application cycle for which the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) had been removed as part of the process.
In his remarks to the incoming class, Dean Mark Stetter pointed out some fun facts about them. With ages ranging from 19-42, the new DVM students come from a variety of backgrounds including: middle school teacher, flight attendant, wildlife ranger, dog groomer, real estate agent, EMT and Army veteran. They hail from South Africa, Hong Kong, Mexico, Taiwan and across the United States.
“Who knows what wonderful things your future will bring,” Stetter said. “I hope you will take the opportunity, not only over the next four years, but over the rest of your career to be curious and explore. Our program and our profession are built just for that—to try many different things, to embrace what is uniquely you and to go out into the world and make a difference. Congratulations, Class of 2028. We are excited to have you join us.”
“Who knows what wonderful things your future will bring,” Stetter said. “I hope you will take the opportunity, not only over the next four years, but over the rest of your career to be curious and explore. Our program and our profession are built just for that—to try many different things, to embrace what is uniquely you and to go out into the world and make a difference. Congratulations, Class of 2028. We are excited to have you join us.”
Dr. Michelle Schack ’15 provided the keynote speech and highlighted three key principles that have guided her through her veterinary career: compassion, collaboration, and connection. She encouraged the incoming students to embrace teamwork—as she had to on Friday. Her voice had given out that morning, so a fellow classmate, Dr. Anjolie Daryani ’15 read her speech for her.
Dr. Karl Jandrey, associate dean of Admissions, emphasized the importance of students receiving their white coats at the beginning of their journey.
Your white coat symbolizes a critical part of your veterinary medical education ... it stands as a physical reminder of the trust that you must earn from both your clients and your patients.”
—Dr. Karl Jandrey
“Your white coat symbolizes a critical part of your veterinary medical education,” he said. “It signifies a standard of professionalism and caring and it stands as a physical reminder of the trust that you must earn from both your clients and your patients.”
Once the students received their white coats, SAVMA President Nicole Kingsley led them in reciting the veterinarian’s oath. The California Veterinary Medical Association and the Veterinary Insurance Services Company helped the students celebrate the occasion by sponsoring the reception.
If you are interested in supporting the DVM White Coat Support Fund, which includes but is not limited to the purchase of white coats, catering, venue, marketing and communications, and travel and housing for guest speakers, visit this link for White Coat Sponsorship.