NYU’s second-year Occupational Therapy Doctoral cohort recently celebrated their White Coat Ceremony, marking the transition into advanced clinical training and professional practice.
Held in recognition of the students’ completion of doctoral coursework and Level I Fieldwork experiences, the White Coat Ceremony brought together faculty, students, families, and peers to honor this important milestone in the Occupational Therapy program. The ceremony celebrated the dedication, growth, and commitment demonstrated by the cohort as they prepare to begin Level II Fieldwork experiences and continue their clinical education.
The ceremony featured reflections on professional identity, resilience, and compassionate care, while also recognizing the collaborative efforts of students who helped organize and host the event. Co-chairs Rachel Kurtz and Andie Ratilla served as masters of ceremonies for the occasion, and the event also honored members of the Pi Theta Epsilon honor society for their academic achievement and leadership. Following this milestone, students will begin Level II Fieldwork placements and continue progressing toward doctoral capstone experiences and entry into the profession.