‘Very Symbolic Honor’ — Student Describes How PT Class of 2026 is Ready for White Coat Ceremony
By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director
Sarah Meador wants to “be the change.”
And by that, she means she wants to “turn my bad experience into something useful by helping others have a better one,” says the 34-year-old Lexington native.
After a traumatic medical event was made worse by the way she was treated by some medical providers and staff at a hospital, Meador knew she could make a difference — that’s why she’s studying to be a physical therapist.
“It was a dehumanizing experience that made me realize there is an opportunity within healthcare to ‘be the change,’” she said. “Because physical therapists spend so much time with their patients, they have a unique opportunity to build positive relationships and advocate for them in a system that can feel intimidating and uncaring. While I can’t personally remedy systemic issues within healthcare on an individual basis, I can be one person who makes a positive impact on some peoples’ lives, and if I can do that then I’ll feel successful.”
Meador and the 60 other students in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Class of 2026 will get one step closer to helping others when they celebrate their White Coat Ceremony from 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the Harris Ballroom in the Gatton Student Center.
As a military veteran who came into the program after an 11-year absence from school, Meador said she had to battle her own insecurities — which makes the White Coat Ceremony even more meaningful.
We caught up with her just before the ceremony, and we learned why she decided on UK, what all she had to overcome, and just what advice she has to give to others.
Here’s 5 Questions with … Second-Year PT Student Sarah Meador:
Why did you decide on UK?
Not only does UK hold a special place in my heart as a Lexington native, the DPT program here is in the top 25 nationwide. UK is such a powerhouse for healthcare in Kentucky and I knew if I was able to attend the DPT program here I would be learning from subject matter experts who are on the cutting edge of research, and build professional connections that will help me continue to grow as a provider, even once I leave these halls.
Any obstacles you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest obstacle in this process honestly has been myself and my mindset. PT school is tough and when I started the program, I hadn’t been a full-time student for 11 years, so it was a major adjustment learning how to study again and manage the volume of material we are covering. There have been many moments of self-doubt and wondering if I really have what it takes to make it through the program, or even if I deserve to become a PT. Luckily, the faculty in the program are incredibly supportive and genuinely root for our success, and we have a seriously impressive cohort of students split between the Hazard and Lexington campuses who motivate me every day to keep going.
Being a veteran, how has that played into your decisions and experiences?
Prior to coming back to school, I spent seven years in the Army, and during that time I grew quite a bit as a professional. I think that experience has given me a certain perspective on things that has helped me remain grounded when I am feeling particularly challenged. I jokingly told my peers at one point that this program has been more stressful than deployment (haha), but in all honesty, it has been humbling and I’m grateful that I have prior experiences to draw upon. I am so impressed by my younger peers who are not merely managing the challenges of the program, but excelling.
What will this White Coat Ceremony mean to you?
The White Coat Ceremony feels very symbolic to me. I’m grateful that this event has been incorporated to the program because it's an opportunity to reflect on our “why,” as well as the solemnity of stepping into our roles as professionals. It’s a transitional moment between building a foundation of knowledge and getting to expand upon that knowledge with hands-on experience and it’s a big honor to have this moment acknowledged ceremoniously.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of going down a similar path?
If you are considering this path, then I would recommend talking to a current Physical Therapist about their experience or doing some shadowing. Take some time to reflect on your personal/professional values, how you define success and what you think you can bring to patient care. If you are still interested, then go for it! If you are passionate and willing to work hard, you’ll do just fine.