Before the Physical Therapy Class of 2028 donned their white coats for the first time, Cameron Massumi, DPT, asked them to close their eyes and raise their hands if they had ever doubted their worthiness to wear one.

“Okay, now open your eyes and look around,” he said. “You are not alone.”

Massumi was speaking at the annual Department of Physical Therapy White Coat Ceremony on Sept. 5, where the program welcomed 56 new students in the College of Health Professions program. He told the students that he, too, once shared that bit of self-doubt.

Massumi – founder and CEO of Virtual Physio, a Leesburg, Virginia-based hybrid PT clinic – offered a glimpse into his own career. Four years after receiving his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Maryland, he enrolled in PT school at Marymount University. Shortly after graduation, he began working at an outpatient orthopedic clinic – only to be laid off six months later during the COVID-19 pandemic.

After several months of evaluating his way forward, Massumi felt the urge to start a telehealth practice in his aunt’s basement. After two and a half years, the company expanded to offer mobile concierge visits before eventually occupying two brick-and-mortar clinics. Today, the company is working on establishing a functional medicine branch.

“Your career isn't a straight line. It's a series of pivots. The things you think disqualify you might be your greatest superpowers,” said Massumi, who is Virginia’s chief delegate to the American Physical Therapy Association’s House of Delegates. “It’s okay to feel like an imposter — just don’t listen to the imposter. Because the truth is, we grow through uncertainty. We lead through discomfort. We become by doing, not waiting.”

His ultimate charge to the students was clear: “Don’t just become a great clinician. Become a catalyst. … The profession you’re stepping into is not just a career. It’s a calling. It’s a privilege. And it’s yours to shape.”

What the white coat symbolizes

The ceremony recognizes students’ commitment to the standards of their chosen field. Assistant professor and master of ceremonies Chad Taylor, PT, DPT, set the tone by reminding students and their families of that significance.

“This ceremony features donning a white coat as a symbol of professionalism, and marks the students’ commitments to the ethical and professional standards of their chosen field of study,” he said.

Benjamin Darter, PT, Ph.D., department chair, noted the pride faculty members feel in supporting them at this milestone, as he introduced the program’s educators and administrators. Kevin Roy, president of the DPT Class of 2026, offered humor along with his notes of encouragement. He recounted various challenges throughout his education, including accidentally addressing his professor, Thomas Mayhew, PT, Ph.D., as “Dr. Mayhem” in an email.;

Roy also spoke candidly about his experiences with imposter syndrome, a common obstacle for doctoral candidates. “I want to let you all know that you all belong, each and every one of you,” he told the students. “As you put on your white coat today, remember that it’s more than just a symbol; it’s a promise.”

Celebrating PT students

The ceremony included recognition of current student leaders and award recipients, highlighting the program’s culture of service and achievement. Students from the Classes of 2026 and 2027 were acknowledged for their roles in leading the CARES Clinic, the department’s student-run pro bono clinic that provides care for underserved community members. Several students received scholarships and memorial awards, underscoring the importance of scholarship, service and compassion within the program.

Following Massumi’s address, the Class of 2028 crossed the stage in pairs to be cloaked by faculty members. They then recited the professional oath alongside faculty, alumni and practicing physical therapists in attendance, pledging to uphold the dignity, integrity and compassion central to their work.

In closing, Taylor acknowledged the importance of each student’s loved ones to their educational pursuits.

“None of us travel the journey of life alone. We all rely on the support, encouragement, guidance, and love of our family and friends,” he said. “Your contributions enable us to educate and groom the PTs of tomorrow.”