More than 250 parents, family members and friends of the Keck School of Medicine of USC’s Class of 2023 got a first glimpse of what their loved ones will experience in medical school at the Keck School’s New Parent Orientation.

Held Aug. 9 on the Health Sciences Campus, the attendees heard from a variety of faculty and administrators who provided overviews of the first-year students’ upcoming curriculum and shared some of the resources offered to the students via the offices of Medical Student Wellness and Student Affairs.

“Your children will be surrounded by unparalleled opportunities and myriad resources that will help ensure their success and well-being,” Donna Elliott, MD, EdD, vice dean for medical education, told the attendees.

Co-presidents Penny and Allen Sterris also spoke on behalf of the Parents Association Board, while a panel of current students shared some of their experiences in medical school. After the event, family members were escorted to the Broad Lawn, where members of the first-year class received their white coats in the annual ceremony, which marks an important symbolic first step towards entering the medical profession.

Donna Elliott, left, introduces Associate Dean of Admissions Raquel Arias, right, during the New Parent Orientation. (Photo/Ricardo Carrasco III)

Karen Restifo, associate dean for student affairs, speaks to parents and family members about the services provided by the Office of Student Affairs to the medical students. (Photo/Ricardo Carrasco III)