Madison Starcher
“Like West Virginia, there are many mountains to climb in your path. And each mountain you conquer, I implore you to do two things. Firstly, look behind at all of the previous mountains you have climbed. ... Secondly, look ahead towards the mountains in your path.”
Madison served as the West Virginia University chapter of Gold Humanism Honor Society President for the 2024-2025 school year. She is a 2025 MD Candidate.
Remarks to the MD Class of 2027
Thank you, Dr. Cottrell. Hello and welcome everyone to the Class of 2027 White Coat Ceremony! My name is Madison Starcher, and it is an honor to represent the West Virginia University chapter of Gold Humanism Honor Society today as chapter president.
Our GHHS Founders Dr. Arnold Gold and his wife Sandra Gold played key roles in the making of this ceremony. Before them, the Hippocratic Oath was not recited until our commencement. But Dr. Gold had believed this needed to be done earlier, that we need to learn what is expected of us earlier so that we may start our preparations now. The White Coat Ceremony now is a steppingstone towards compassionate and empathetic care for those in need.
Students, I wish to congratulate all of you for completing your first half of medical school! It is a great milestone to have achieved, and we are all here today to celebrate your dedication and ambition to reach this point in your careers.
Like West Virginia, there are many mountains to climb in your path. And each mountain you conquer, I implore you to do two things. Firstly, look behind at all of the previous mountains you have climbed. A lifetime of learning, studying, and preparing that have led you to this moment. Recognizing the strength it took for you to have learned the Krebs cycle six times over, and each time it feeling like the first. The friends made, the motivation gained from mentors, the valued time spent with family. Overall, cherishing these memories that have brought you here.
Secondly, look ahead towards the mountains in your path. There will be times where you will need to wake up at 3AM for your surgery rotations, or times where you have worked long hours and have been unable to study for that upcoming exam. Yes, there are still exams but fewer and farther between! There are always parts of the mountain that are not as enjoyable, but I encourage you to look for the moments that define your character. Speaking with patients who had to drive three hours for a visit in the clinic. Experiencing your first time assisting in the delivery of a child. Holding a patient’s hand as they discuss their concerns and fears. These are the moments worth cherishing as you continue your path.
In a few minutes you will receive a white coat and recite the Hippocratic Oath. I hope this coat will serve as a reminder that being a physician is not only about medicine, but also the people in your care and your duty to make compassion and empathy the center of your practice.
As you prepare for your clinical years, challenge yourselves to:
- Have patience with your patients
- Recognize your own biases and how they impact your care
- Lead your practice with a full heart and an open mind
- Be not just a medical student for your patients, but an advocate.
- And lastly, to truly feel with your patients.
You all have amazing mountains to climb, and the view only gets better. Take your time today to enjoy the view before you start climbing again. On behalf of Gold Humanism Honors Society, congrats and good luck!