White Coat Profile: Cora Addie

The White Coat Ceremony marks the first time a medical student will don his or her white coat, the defining symbol of a physician. The coat bestows a great honor on each student, and with it comes a responsibility to uphold the trust of every patient they will encounter. The Class of 2028 will receive their white coats on July 19 during a ceremony that begins at 3:30 p.m. in the West Ballroom of the Phoenix Convention Center downtown.

Meet Cora Addie

An Arizona native hailing from Gilbert, Cora Addie attended Grand Canyon University (GCU) where she earned her bachelor’s degree in biology.

Addie earned her master’s degree as part of the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix’s Pathway Scholars Program earlier this year.

Throughout her journey, Addie credits her parents, husband and sister as her biggest supports. She also said her nephew Major and nieces Savea and Sofia are her reason to keep going, even in difficult times.

Path toward Medicine

What was the spark that led you to become a physician?

My interest in medicine began on a field trip to Grand Canyon University for Health and Sciences day in my junior year of high school. While touring the anatomy lab, I was captivated by the complexities of the human body, sparking a desire to merge my passion for serving others with my limitless curiosity.

I went home and told my mom about my day and that I wanted to go to GCU after my visit. When I told her that I wanted to be a doctor, without hesitating, she told me to, “Shoot for the moon.” She has supported me ever since.

The College of Medicine – Phoenix

Why did you choose the College of Medicine – Phoenix?

I was drawn to the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix for several reasons, but, ultimately, I selected the college for its strong track record of producing exceptional physicians.

My favorite aspect of the school is its inclusive and close-knit community. The camaraderie among students and faculty at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is remarkable, as they all share the common goal of providing unwavering support to the medical students.

Instead of fostering competition, the school promotes a culture of collaboration and teamwork among its students.

What excites you most about beginning medical school?

I am thrilled about the opportunity to learn from and form enduring connections with the amazing community of physicians at the school. While shadowing as a pre-med, some of my most cherished memories involved witnessing extraordinary physicians interacting with patients and witnessing the positive impact they had on their lives.

Significance of the White Coat

What does the white coat mean to you?

To me the white coat symbolizes humanity. I know that there will be times as a medical student and physician where I will maybe sacrifice my immediate needs and desires for the greater good of my patients. As Jesus said in John 15:13, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

The profession of medicine is so noble because we will see people in their most vulnerable conditions. We, as physicians, have the responsibility to use our knowledge and experience to care after them while respecting their autonomy and preserving their dignity.

I am honored and excited for the day I will finally get to wear the white coat. As I wear it throughout the years, I will remember all that it symbolizes.