We all are living in such uncertain times. What is certain: your decision to pursue a career in medicine was a good one. As was your choice to attend the Alpert Medical School. I can say that with some confidence (graduated from Brown-Dartmouth Program in Medicine 1991). Being a physician has been intellectually challenging, interesting, sometimes stressful and very rewarding. And fun too. Do your best to have an outlet from the hard work and chaos along the way. That will be helpful during your training and professional life. All the best as you formally enter your training.

Dear first-year Brown medical student, Class of ‘24, As you don your white coat, and formally start your medical journey, I would like to offer you three pieces of advice that helped me enormously: 1. Pursue in-depth research during your summers. Doesn’t matter what kind – basic science, animal models, clinical trials, epidemiology, global medicine. Learn how to think like a scientist, analyze data like a scientist, and write concisely. You will use these tools over and over again. 2. Take one or more biostatistics courses. They will be hugely helpful later on. 3. In your clinical clerkship years, take clinical electives that are NOT in your field of interest. It will absolutely make you a better doctor. And you’ll never get the chance again. Enjoy the next four years! What an extraordinary opportunity to make the world a better place! Good luck and best wishes, Susan Leitman MD Class of ’77

What a great day! A day to officially start on a path of preparation to make a profound difference in the lives of others. You already belong to a very selective group of individuals with human and social qualities that are recognized by an institution that shines at placing high talent in the professional world. Enjoy every minute of it, take advantage of every opportunity afforded and prepare yourself for a hard yet very rewarding life. You make us very proud with your accomplishments.

Dearest Ankush, congratulations on this incredible milestone! Today marks the beginning of a career that will be nothing short of remarkable. You are going to make an outstanding physician, not only because you are extremely intelligent, empathetic, humorous, and driven but because you are the most deeply loving person I know. Wishing you all the best today and every day, and never forget that your sister will be in your corner every step of the way.

Congratulations Christopher on your White Coat Ceremony, Class of MD'24, Brown University. You have the intellectual capabilities and the personal characteristics to become an outstanding doctor. The new challenges you meet in medical school will continue to build your strength and character. We are proud grandparents wishing you the very best in your journey to become a medical doctor. We love you Christopher Bayston! Nana & Papa

Ella, no sabes cuánto admiro lo que estás haciendo y el esfuerzo que le pones a todo lo que haces. Muchas gracias por todo lo que has hecho por mi todo estos años, y se que lo darás todo también por tus pacientes en el futuro. No tengo ninguna duda que te va salir todo muy bien, y serás muy exitosa! Good luck sister and keep going strong!

Dear Wendy, my beautiful warrior. This is the beginning of a new chapter in your life. We know the path is rough but with your dedication and effort you can do it. God have give you all the weapons you need to conquer. We are so proud of you and you know we are your number one fans. Love u princesa. Mom, Dad, Sisters,Grandma and all your family

Congratulations my darling Kanku!! We are so proud of you. It is a delight to watch you blossom into a young lady finding your own path. May the love of healing, curiosity and human connection be front and center of your being and all those little acts of empathy, respect and love for people around you guide you as embark upon your journey. Always remember it is a privilege to be able to help. It is most fulfilling and rewarding- never miss the opportunity. We love you and we are with you always!! -Mama

Wow, I’m so proud of you Bri aka future Dr. Mena! Your dedication to medicine and compassion for everyone you encounter has been vibrant since our first meet years ago, and I am certain they will carry you far as a doctor. I wish you the best of luck in med school and hope that you will meet many incredible people who inspire you, like you do for me & all your friends.

From your brother from another mother: You have spent DAYS and NIGHTS working for this moment in your life and the moment you place this white coat on your skin enters you into the galaxy of medicine. There will be many late nights ahead, many struggles, TONS of stress, pounds of frustration, but no one deserves to be here more than you right now. As a brother that has seen your work-ethic and determination firsthand, I couldn't be more prouder to watch you become the best physician the world has ever seen. Your values, beliefs, and interpersonal skills have inspired me in many ways and will allow you to revolutionize medicine. I love you with all my heart man and I know we'll be hugging each other in our white coats soon (fingers crossed for my white coat). Congrats my brother!!!!!! I can't wait to see you this New Year's holiday :)❤️😍😭

It is an exceptional year for many especially doctors. To embark on medical career path under this circumstances shows extraordinary courage, stamina and devotion to profession! Wishing MD'24 class successful journey through the medical school, engagement in patient care and personal growth it takes to balance life and work! with love parents!

Congratulations, Jeannine on your impressive academic accomplishments over the years and, most especially, your truly wonderful achievement of being accepted by The Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University. We look forward to your 2024 graduation knowing you will do very well academically during the next four challenging and intellectually- stimulating years. And, we will be so exceptionally proud of you when you become,“Dr. Jeannine Whelan”, in the not too distant future,. Only the “Sky is the Limit” for you..