On Friday, January 8, 2021, the Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-COM) celebrated Military Match Day. Twelve medical students from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2021 participated in the Health Professions Scholarship Program.

During “Match Day,” future doctors receive information about where they will complete their post-doctoral specialty training, commonly referred to as a "residency." Similar to this process, military medical students participate in their own selection process for programs located at military hospitals, clinics, and bases.

“These students have made a commitment to their future patients and to our country,” said Amanda Wright, DO, interim dean of MU-COM and associate professor of family medicine. “They have expertly juggled their academic, military, and family obligations, which includes participating in multiple simulations, lectures, many exams, boards, officer and annual training exercises. This last year we have all faced some uncertainty. However, having seen the professionalism, compassion, and grace these students have brought to their medical and military careers, I have great hope for the continued protection and prosperity of our country.”

Even with a more challenging year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MU-COM will see its largest cohort of students participating in “Match Day” this year. Twelve of those students will soon be practicing medicine within the Army, Air Force, and Navy military branches as well as within some civilian residencies to be determined in March. 

“Though I am proud of the accomplishments of all our MU-COM students, I take exceptional pride in those students who voluntarily have committed to serving our country as military physicians,” said Clif Knight, MD, CPE, FAAFP, assistant dean of clinical affairs and associate professor of family medicine. “Matching into a military residency program is a wonderful achievement. I have great respect and appreciation for these dedicated students.”

Click here to watch the 2021 Military Match Ceremony and see where our students are continuing the next phase of their journey.