Jago Times "English Edition" Best Online Newspaper
At the Worthington Renaissance Hotel in downtown Fort Worth, medical students from Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) gathered with their loved ones for Match Day, eagerly anticipating the moment they would discover where they will undertake their residencies. This event, held on Friday, marks a significant milestone for medical students across the country.
The class of 2024 at TCOM commenced their medical journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, with their entire first year conducted online.
“For us, it signifies that we’ll be better equipped to face the challenges ahead as physicians,” remarked TCOM student Kate Russell. “Having Kate just down the hall during those tough moments made all the difference,” added Madisen Seidel, reflecting on their enduring friendship since kindergarten in Tyler, Texas, now extending to medical school.
Seidel, drawn to women’s health and family medicine, expressed her lifelong aspiration to become a doctor, while Russell, once averse to medical visits, found herself unexpectedly pursuing a career in healthcare.
As the clock struck 10:00 a.m., the tension in the room peaked as students prepared to unveil the contents of their Match Day envelopes.
“10…9…8…7…6…5…4…3…2…1,” the voice over the speaker counted down. “Open your letters!”
In a moment of shared excitement, Russell and Seidel tore open their envelopes.
“It’s Emory!” exclaimed Russell, her nerves palpable. “It’s your number one too!” she cheered, embracing Seidel, who had matched for an OB/GYN residency at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas.
With both securing their top choices, Russell and Seidel celebrated their mutual success.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, all 229 students from TCOM received residency placements on Match Day.