As Boston, Massachusetts sizzled in an early August heat wave, a new cohort of dental students arrived on campus, ready to put on their white coats. Incoming Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) students were immersed in a weeklong Introduction to the Profession, forging connections with classmates and faculty who will guide them through their first year of the program.
The week began with dental and medical students celebrating their transition into the healthcare profession during the traditional White Coat Ceremony on the HMS Quad held on Monday, August 5. The deans of Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) and Harvard Medical School (HMS), along with Bernard Chang, dean for medical education at HMS, welcomed the incoming class.
“You were chosen for the great promise we see in you and for your commitment to science, clinical care, and to service. At a time when our nation faces healthcare shortages—particularly in rural and underserved communities—we need you more than ever,” said Dean William Giannobile during the White Coat Ceremony. “You’ve chosen a path that is both challenging and highly rewarding. Here, you’ll find others who share your passion and determination.”
Family members and friends joined the students to cheer them on as they took the stage to introduce themselves in their white coats.
This year there was a 25% increase in applications for just 35 spots in HSDM’s predoctoral program. The dental students in the Class of 2028 hail from 13 different states and two different countries. The class comes from 26 undergraduate institutions, with nearly half entering directly from undergraduate programs. Eleven percent of the incoming class are first-generation students. During their first year, HSDM and HMS students learn alongside each other before entering each school’s focused curriculum.
“I am eager to deepen my understanding of oral and systemic health links with a robust medical education this year,” said Alisha LaBuda, an incoming DMD student from Scottsdale, Arizona.
Throughout the week, dental and medical students attended orientation sessions and participated in activities to get to know their classmates and the community. They also learned about the curriculum and resources available to support them.
Rahul Ainpudi, DMD28, who comes to HSDM from Florida, is excited to join a collaborative and close-knit community.
"I believe that advancing as a society is more important than individual success, and HSDM's values align with this principle," he said. "I aspire to become a productive member of the Harvard community and to forge meaningful friendships with my peers."
Students also had the opportunity to listen to powerful patient stories during a clinic visit and explore a community-based clinic in the Greater Boston area.
During the week, students were introduced to their academic societies led by faculty advisors. The societies are smaller, supportive groups that play a pivotal role in helping students navigate the curriculum and serve as a home base for students throughout their education. Joining this year as a new society director is Dr. Angeliki Polymeri. Before arriving at HSDM, Polymeri was a clinical lecturer at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.
The weeklong orientation wrapped up on Friday, August 9 with a class oath that underscored the student’s commitment to treating their patients with respect, kindness, fairness, and empathy. Several first-year dental students worked with their medical peers to write the class oath that the entire class recited together.
“You are all well poised to take the next steps in realizing your dream of becoming a doctor and putting on the white coat. We look forward to supporting you every step of the way and following your achievements over these next four years,” said Giannobile. “I encourage you to absorb all you can and make the most of every moment you are here...it’s your place, and it’s your time.”
