On March 6th, 2024, the International Medical School of the University of Messina (UniMe-IMS) hosted its eagerly anticipated annual "Freshman and Beyond" event. Organized and directed by Prof. Giuseppe Santoro, UniMe-IMS Coordinator, this event provided an important opportunity for incoming freshmen to gain essential insights and guidance, laying a solid foundation for their academic journey ahead.
The event began with a warm welcome from esteemed figures, including Prof. Antonino Germanà, Delegate of the Rector of the University of Messina, and Prof. Daniela Caccamo, Deputy Director of the Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho-Functional Images. Various speakers then explored essential aspects of the medical degree, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges in the medical profession:
Prof. Giuseppe Santoro offered a comprehensive overview of UniMe-IMS, outlining its mission and values;
Mr. Giuseppe Lucchese, Head of UniMe International Mobility Unit, presented an array of international mobility opportunities available to medical students;
Mr. Abdul Rauf Mastan Sheik Abdullah, a 6th-year student at UniME-IMS, shared his enriching experiences at the prestigious Mayo Clinic, facilitated by the university’s strategic partnerships;
Prof. Emmanuele Venanzi Rullo, an esteemed professor of Infectious Diseases, provided insights into international medical humanitarian organizations, drawing from his impactful work in Madagascar;
Antonio D’Angelo, MD, representing the Order of Medical Doctors and Dentists of Messina, illustrated the nuances of General Practice in Italy, detailing training programs and career trajectories.
In recognition of academic excellence, Warnakulasuriya Ishan Michele Dabarera (1st year), Roberta Ricciari (2nd year), Richard David Kuhn (3rd year), Danilo Masi (4th year) and Simona Calabrese (5th year) were honored for their outstanding achievements during the academic year 2022/23.
The event culminated in the solemn "White Coat Ceremony", marking the transition from preclinical to clinical health sciences education. As each student was ceremonially cloaked in their white coat by esteemed faculty members, they solemnly pledged allegiance to the values of integrity and compassion that define the UniMe-IMS community. This tradition underscores the ethical obligations and responsibilities that future physicians bear from their earliest days of training.
To conclude this memorable occasion, students had the opportunity to engage with speakers and faculty members.