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Match Day, 2008
April 03, 2008
Of all the important milestones on the medical student calendar, there is none more exciting than Match Day.
We have a tradition of superb results on the Match, and for good reason. Starting with an entering class of 100 of the most talented medical students in the country, and immersing them in the special experience we call the Rochester curriculum for four years, an extraordinarily well-prepared group of Rochester medical students present themselves to residency programs around the country.
I have learned about the quality of our students’ preparation for residency training from two sources. First, when I travel in the circle of medical school deans, they often let me know (without prompt!) that their residency program directors covet our students for their clinical maturity and professionalism. And second, when I visit with alumni around the country—both recent alumni still in training and those who have been in practice for some time—there is a recurring comment, which goes something like this: “I was nervous at first about starting my residency program, but I quickly learned that my Rochester medical education prepared me so well that it was a natural transition. I didn’t truly realize how great our medical school is until I gained the perspective of being at another place.”
On March 20, the Class of 2008, along with friends and family, met in the Class of ’62 Auditorium, where the next step in their medical career was laid out on a table in front of the room. You should check it out next time. The room is full to the rafters and the excitement is electric. Before the countdown to the big moment when the envelopes on the table would be opened. Dr. Lambert warmed up the group by calling Class of 2008 contestants in a version of the game show, “Power of 10” called “Power of 2008”. Then, the countdown to noon (OK, 12:05 pm this year) was done, and the students were invited to retrieve their envelopes. Some rushed to the front; some stayed back for a while. Some tore open their envelopes with their family and friends beside them; others found a quiet corner to have a more private moment of discovery.
This year, each of the four student Advisory Deans were given a dictaphone and asked to record the reaction of some of their students to their Match results. The students were asked why they picked the field they did, and how they were feeling about where they were headed. With some editing by the students, their “post Match interviews” follow.
Adviser: Laurence Guttmacher, MD
Tracy Fuller
Why Pediatrics?
I chose pediatrics because I love the challenge of caring for children of all ages. The way you approach a newborn is completely different from a 16 year old and both are equally fascinating to me. Also, I am interested in primary care and feel it is a special privilege to shape a child's development and be a positive influence in his or her life for many years.
Where did you match and how do you feel?
I matched at Johns Hopkins and I am very excited about joining the residents and faculty at the program. They are incredibly intelligent, devoted to the patients, and enthusiastic about teaching. I am thrilled for the opportunity to train in such a strong program, both clinically and academically. I am excited about learning to be autonomous and to develop into the best pediatrician I can be.
How has your education here made a difference?
Rochester has taught me a great foundation in medicine which will serve me well in residency, and an ability to connect with patients which will serve me well throughout my career.
Chris Greenman
Why did you choose internal medicine?
I had a great time on my Medicine Clerkship. I really related to the people, and my residents gave me a great deal of autonomy in caring for patients. For the first time I played the role of physician, which made that clerkship stand out among other experiences.
Why are you excited about the program to which you matched?
Being a Pacific NW native, I was interested in returning to the West Coast. After interviewing at a few of those programs, Portland jumped out to me as being just dynamite. I really connected with my interviewer (we spoke for over an hour!) and the Program Director. On rounds, I was impressed by the teamwork and the empathy expressed towards the patients. The care was very patient-centered, and in this regard reminded me a lot of Rochester. The campus at Oregon Health and Sciences is also unbelievably gorgeous: the facilities are set in a forested bluff overlooking Mt. Hood, the Willamette River, and downtown Portland. The hospitals are connected by either tram or sky-bridges. It's a very unique set-up. I can't wait to get started!
Kara Greenwald
Why did you choose Internal Medicine?
Internal medicine is perfect for me because I can choose primary care or a subspecialty. I will have continuity of care and I can practice anywhere, at home and abroad.
Why did you choose Rochester for medical school and why are you excited about the program to which you matched?
I have had a wonderful time living in Rochester for the last 8 years. I received broad undergraduate training across the street that has served me well in medical school. At URSMD I have not only learned how to be a physician, but have had fun doing so! I chose the REMS (Rochester Early Medical Scholars) program in high school, which has been one of my best decisions to date. I matched at NYU, my first choice! I am thrilled to start working there because of their strong reputation for highly independent and compassionate physicians. Their hospitals care for an incredibly diverse patient population, something that is very important to me. I have to admit I look forward to being in Manhattan, which is close to my family.
Koto Ishida
Why Neurology?
I was always interested in neuroscience at Cal, but I think a large part of my decision was being at Rochester with this amazing neurology department and also the enthusiastic and encouraging mentors that I worked with including Dr. Jozefowicz and Dr. Deborah Friedman. I also feel that neurology is a very intellectual field with a lot of emphasis on teaching (which I am very interested in), and will continue to be interesting to me 30 years from now since it is such a new and developing field.
Why are you excited about Penn?
To be honest, it was a difficult decision for me. It came down to UCSF and Penn as the final two and I ultimately decided that being close to my friends and family on the east coast/midwest was really important. That being said, I loved Penn. The people are incredibly warm and friendly, and the feel is very "Rochester-esque." They also have a killer neurology department!
What are you going to do now to celebrate?
Hmmm...I guess I'll go tackle that eighth mimosa...
Abigail (Abby) Hobson Kroening
Why Pediatrics?
I am what one might call a "nontraditional student." It has taken me six years to complete my medical school training. Along the way I had a wonderful educational experience as a Pathology Year-Out Student Fellow and was blessed with identical twin girls--now almost 2 years old--who keep me very busy and very fulfilled.
I enjoyed most of my rotations and really had a difficult time choosing a specific specialty to pursue. Because of the background I had established in pathology, and also the care and support I received throughout my high-risk pregnancy I was able to narrow my career choices down to three fields: Pathology, Ob/Gyn, and Pediatrics.
As I was struggling with this decision, an Ob/Gyn resident gave me the perfect piece of advice that empowered me to make my final decision. She said, "You should ask yourself, 'Who do I want most to advocate for?'" After hearing this, I realized that I really and truly desire to be an advocate for children and their families, and that Pediatrics is where I belong and where I feel I can make a difference. I also think that my own experiences as a mom will augment my role as a pediatrician and enhance my relationships with future patients.
How do you feel about matching at the U of R?
I am so excited about matching here at Strong Memorial Hospital. The University of Rochester provides a wonderful environment in which to pursue educational excellence and child advocacy. Additionally, the pediatrics program is extremely family-centered and there is a well-established, positive relationship between the hospital and the community physicians--a relationship that I, as a parent, can personally appreciate.
It is a privilege to be able to stay in Rochester. This summer as I begin my residency training, my husband will be starting medical school here at the University of Rochester as well. We are proud to be a part of this institution and pleased to raise our family in such a supportive community.
Advisor: Elizabeth Naumberg, MD
Joshua Miller
Why Internal Medicine?
Internal medicine has always seemed like the perfect "fit" for me. I really enjoy the interaction I'll have with colleagues from different specialties as well as the opportunity to care for my future patients long term. I have a personal interest in Endocrinology and a residency in internal medicine will allow me the chance to further explore that specialty, and others.
What are you looking for in a residency?
The interview trail allowed me to compare each of the programs I visited with Rochester as the benchmark. Dr. Don Bordley offered great advice about the search for a program with the right "fit." Put plainly, I needed a program where the housestaff were as happy and content as they are here in Rochester. Moreover, I looked for places where the housestaff were clearly a main focus of the medical center and not just an afterthought.
Where are you going and how are you feeling about it?
I matched at my first choice - Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. My wife and I are very excited for the move down to New York to bring us both closer to family and friends from around the tri-state area. At the same time, though, it will be tough to leave Rochester after being students here for 10 years. We both received our bachelors degrees from the River Campus, I my MPH from the medical school and Ellen her MBA from Simon. So, we've definitely become "Rochesterians" at heart. We'll definitely miss our friends here in town but we've assured everyone that they have a "reserved" spot on our NY City couch whenever they'd like to visit.
Pooja Rao
Why Med-Peds?
The huge draw for me to pursue Med-Peds was the patient populations; I love kids and being able to see them get better, and forming therapeutic alliances with older patients, and managing their health. I would be unhappy if I couldn't take care of both kids and adults during my day! There are so many avenues open in pursuing this residency, and I am really excited to get training in both ambulatory settings, and feeling comfortable managing critically ill patients. In addition, the opportunities to travel, learn, and work abroad are astounding, and I hope that I will be able to give something beneficial to communities with the training I will receive.
What program did you match to and how do you feel about it?
My boyfriend (Natt Songdej), who is also pursuing Med-Peds, and I both matched to the Med-Peds Residency program at Brown University. We were totally thrilled, as it was our top choice!! We really loved the program's integration of the categorical departments, the combined Med-Peds clinic which serves a variety of ethnic and socioeconomic communities, and the amazing opportunities to pursue international electives. The Brown faculty are so compassionate and supportive, and I think it will be an amazing place to learn and grow as a resident. Providence, RI should also be an exciting and fun place to live! However, our successes could not be possible without the strong mentorship we have received at our medical school, in addition to fantastic role models and teachers in the Med-Peds program, as well as the categorical programs.
Domenick Roma
Why Internal Medicine?
I loved my internal medicine clerkship. I liked how internists approach a patient. I enjoy putting together pieces to come up with a diagnosis and treatment plan. I’m excited about three more years in training in general medicine, but there are also a lot of opportunities to specialize further.
Where are you going and how do you feel about it?
I matched at UNC, and am very excited about it. It is a relief to finally know where I am going to be next year. I knew that I would be happy at most of the places on my list, but I was especially happy to match at my first choice. My wife and I loved the Chapel Hill area and are looking forward to experiencing a different part of the country, but I am definitely going to miss Rochester. I have had an amazing experience here and I am sure that has made me well prepared for residency.
Advisor: David Lambert, MD
Jeremy Arnold
So, Jeremy, you matched in Emergency Medicine at U Mass; what are you thinking right now ?
We could not be more excited about getting our first choice. It's going to be difficult leaving everyone here whom we have grown close to, but we look forward to the new adventures in New England.
Sarah, are you happy to move?
Sarah (Jeremy's wife): Yes, I’m excited for both of us. Its a big relief knowing we get to go where we want. I also look forward to the Hawaii rotation where we get to spend one month on a beach.
Great, great. Well, we’re so glad for you!
Thank you for all your help. We’re going to miss you guys.
Lisa Cannon
So, Lisa, you’re going to be doing a general surgery residency at Columbia. Tell me what you’re thinking right now.”
I’m so excited. There’s a reason that we push for the things that we want.
Great. So you wanted to be at Columbia, right?”
Yes, I did, absolutely. Columbia was, by far, my first choice.
What is it about the program that made you want to be there?
I’d felt a very strong connection to the program during the application process. For me, knowing that I want to ultimately pursue a fellowship but not knowing the specific field-- it's logical to seek out a program that excels in every field. They also have a surgical outcomes research group that I’m interested in, and that was a specific draw. I'd like to take an additional year or two to work with them. Columbia made me feel very welcome—everyone I met seemed to know me already. I felt we understood each other; in terms of what the program had to offer, and vice versa. Everything kind of fell into place. It’s quite an opportunity.
Wonderful. We know you’ll do a great job.
Oh, thank you, Dr. Lambert.
Justin Brucker
So, Justin, you matched here in Radiology at Strong. What are your thoughts?”
And Medicine - the preliminary year!
Dr. Lambert: “That's right, you'll do a year of medicine here first. So, what are your thoughts?”
I am very happy… and really relieved! I think for the past couple of days I was trying to get used to the idea of living somewhere else; the thought of adjusting to a new residency and a new town at the same time. I simply can’t imagine another place I’d rather be than here at home. So, it’s great to know that I can stay close to the people I care about, within the community I’ve grown to love.
Inge de Weille
So, Inge, You’re going to be doing Psychiatry at Oregon. How does it feel?
I’m thinking that’s the one place I went to where I could imagine living the rest of my life and being on faculty.”
Wow, great! So you’re happy?
Yeah, the people are really sweet and I just felt really at home.
Dr. Lambert: “Great. Congratulations!
Thank you.”
Advisor: Frank Richeson, MD
Ravi Saksena
Why Pediatrics?
I chose Pediatrics because I love kids, I love working with children. I’m interested in international medicine and pediatrics. I want to work with children abroad.
Where did you match, and how are you feeling about it?
I got my first choice, Montefiore Children’s Hospital in the Bronx. I’m really very happy, because I didn’t really expect to get my first choice! So today’s a very special, happy occasion. This year’s been pretty stressful, given the uncertainty about where you’re going. It’s nice to have it all finished now. It’s a great day.”
Jesse Wenger
Why did you choose medicine-pediatrics?”
Jesse: “I chose Med/Peds because I’m really interested in taking care of long-term survivors of childhood malignancies. I’ve felt like I need a good understanding of pediatrics and adult medicine to help transition these survivors from their cancer as kids into their adult lives and to understand adult medicine to take care of them. That was the big draw for me to Med-Peds.”
Why Penn?
I couples-matched with my wife (Tara Wenger), who is going into Pediatrics. We’re just so excited that we matched to the University of Pennsylvania for the ‘HOP and CHOP’ program. We have been trying to enjoy the whole Match process and just relax and think about all the different programs we had ranked and how we could be happy at any number of those. But we were really hoping to match at Penn because it is such a fantastic program and because my family will be only about 90 minutes away. It’s going to be tough to leave Rochester and all of our friends and just really great people we’ve gotten to meet here. But we’re really excited to start this next leg of our journey and we just couldn’t be happier. We’re so glad about how Rochester has kind of set us up to get into a great residency training program. So, we’re really excited.”
Alan Sherburne
Why Surgery”
I believe my path toward general surgery was a little different from most. I didn’t realize that surgery was right for me until late into my third year when it kind of caught me by surprise. I just had a fantastic time in both the OR and clinics. As a result, my 4th year was busier than that of others, as I ended up spending the majority of my first half of this year taking all surgical electives to ensure that general surgery was the right decision. Now that I have my match and fourth year has begun to quiet down, I can look back on the whole stressful process and laugh a little bit.
Where did you match and how are you feeling about it?”
I matched with Boston University—I am thrilled! Leading up to the Match the past few weeks, I felt as though we were all in limbo, just waiting to see where the next big step will be so that we can move on with life. So, I have to admit that recently I was more or less just anxious to get it over with. Yet, once I stepped into this room, the energy and positive tension in the room lifted me up and was truly an experience. As I’m from the Northeast originally, I’m tremendously excited that I’m going back to Boston.
Meliora,
David S. Guzick, MD, PhD
Dean, School of Medicine and Dentistry
University of Rochester
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