The UA Medical School's class of 2000 was initiated into the medical community July 26, when they received their first white coats.

The students donned their white coats and took an oath establishing their entrance into the medical community.

"We decided two years ago that the students really began their careers at the beginning of medical school rather than at the end," said Dr. Jay Smith, dean for academic affairs at the College of Medicine and master of ceremonies at the White Coat Ceremony .

By taking an oath and participating in the ceremony, students recognize their inclusion in the medical community, Smith said.

"The oath really recognizes that there is something special the students will share with patients, teachers, and their colleagues," he said.

In a press release about the ceremony, Smith said, " It's very important to instill in students respect and compassion for patients and to reflect the nobility of the medical profession early in their education."

The Arnold P. Gold Foundation, a public, not-for-profit organization, sponsored the UA's White Coat Ceremony, as well as ceremonies at 45 other medical schools around the United States.

The first ceremony took place in 1993 at Columbia University's Medical School.