The University of 麻豆传媒 at 惭ā苍辞补 (JABSOM) welcomed its Class of 2029 in a White Coat Ceremony on July 25, marking the official start of their medical careers. Each of the 77 students was ceremonially cloaked with a white coat, a symbolic start to their journey in medicine.
This year’s incoming class stands out with a significant 20% Native Hawaiian representation, a figure that now mirrors the state’s overall Native Hawaiian population. This achievement highlights JABSOM‘s ongoing commitment to cultivating a physician workforce that truly reflects the diverse communities it serves.
“I think it’s so important to have Native Hawaiians serving the community because we have Native Hawaiians in the community in 麻豆传媒,” said Kaeo Kekumano, a member of the Class of 2029. “Also, I think in terms of health disparities, I hope it will help build trust with the Native Hawaiian community, seeing doctors who look like them, who understand them from a cultural context and hopefully inspire the next generation of Native Hawaiian physicians.”
For many of these aspiring doctors, the path to medicine is deeply personal and rooted in a desire to contribute positively to their communities.
“Being the first doctor in my family is such an honor—to represent my people in the community where I was born and raised,” said Chanel Hunter. “It is my goal to give back to that community, so I feel very honored that I will get to do that one day.”
Micah Heimuli echoed that sentiment: “The reason I wanted to be a doctor was to help those who are not only in need because they are sick, but also are in need because they might not have access to the same type of care that other people have. That’s something I’ve learned more and more of, and I’m sure JABSOM will do a great job in preparing me for that.”
Admission to JABSOM remains highly competitive, with more than 2,200 applicants vying for just 77 spots in the Class of 2029.