Houston Daily

Students at the University of Houston's Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine marked a significant milestone on March 21 as they participated in Match Day, revealing where they will undertake their medical residencies. Among those celebrating was Iliana Sanchez, a fourth-year student who matched with Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut.

Dr. Jonathan McCullers, dean of the Fertitta College of Medicine, expressed pride in the students' achievements, stating, "Match Day is a defining moment for our students and a proud milestone for the College. It represents the culmination of years of dedication and resilience."

This year marks the second Match Day for the Fertitta College of Medicine. Notably, 96% of its class secured matches, with 63% entering primary care fields. The college also saw one student earn a rare dermatology residency and another secure a neurosurgery placement. A significant portion—two-thirds—of students will remain in Texas for their residencies.

Nabeel Ahmed, another student from Houston specializing in pediatric dermatology at Penn State Health’s Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, reflected on his journey: “Through the Fertitta College of Medicine, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how social determinants impact clinical outcomes.”

The National Resident Matching Program (The MATCH), founded in 1952 to ensure fair residency placements for medical students across the U.S., orchestrates this annual event each March.

Dr. Kristin Kassaw emphasized the significance of this transition: “Match Day begins the transition from student to physician, setting the stage for the next chapter in growth and training.”