Sixty more for Spartan University School of Medicine

OVER 60 students began their medical career at the Spartan Health Sciences University School of Medicine when they were officially enrolled with the learning institution at its glittering White Coat ceremony last week.

A striking feature of the momentous occasion was the students donning of their white coats and the recitation of the Hippocratic Oath which spelt out what is expected of them as physicians in training.

In her keynote address, Dr. Sybil Naitram, head of the Introduction to Clinical Medicine (ICM), reminded the students, who included those of the Basic Science program and the pre-med program, that the road ahead as it relates to their goals is rough and requires hard work and dedication to succeed.

“From the time you receive your white coats your life will or should change. It marks the beginning of your medical career,” Naitram said, describing the occasion as a momentous and exciting one.

She said Spartan has given the students an opportunity to make their dreams a reality, so they should not squander it.

“Spartan has given you an opportunity to become successful physicians so you should make full use of it and make the school proud,” Naitram urged the students.

According to her, as physicians they will need to remind themselves that their ultimate goal is to care for their patients.

“Work hard and maintain respect and trust…Show the patients care and compassion, talk to them and always make sure you spend the extra time listening to them,” she advised the students.

Dr.Naitram exhorted the students to find a mentor who will provide them with career guidance and advice.

“A mentor can enable you achieve your goal, achieve new skills and provide role modelling….” she said.

Dr.Naitram also impressed upon the students the need for leisure.

“Work hard and play hard…,”she said.

And In a bid to further inspire the students that they can achieve their goals despite the challenges which they may face, she recounted some of her daunting moments during her studies as a student doctor, which she managed to overcome through hard work and determination.

There were also short addresses from students of the school who showered praises on the faculty staff of the school for exhibiting interest in their education and going the further mile to ensure that they fully understand what they were taught.

The students also promised to work hard to obtain good grades in their exams and make the school proud.

“The faculty staff is doing a great job. We appreciate it very much…” one student said.