School of Medicine boasts impressive 2024 Match Day results

April 23, 2024
Domonique Green
Medicine

Almost 40 percent of participants matched in primary care specialties, reflecting the school's commitment to addressing health care needs in underserved communities

On Match Day, graduating medical students across the nation learn where they matched for their residency program. (Stephen Arnold / Texas A&M University)

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Texas A&M University School of Medicine‘s 2024 Match Day was a resounding success, marked by tradition, celebration and achievement. A hundred percent of the School of Medicine early match participants successfully matched, including placements in military, ophthalmology and urology specialties.

Match Day is a pivotal moment for medical students, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Texas A&M School of Medicine‘s 2024 Match Day was a momentous occasion celebrated at the Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Conference Center in Georgetown, Texas.

The Match Day proceedings were infused with tradition and excitement, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Amy Waer, MD, dean of the School of Medicine, commenced the event with remarks underscoring the occasion’s significance. Waer also introduced the fishbowl, one of the school’s cherished Match Day traditions. As each student was called to receive their envelope, they contributed a dollar to the fishbowl. The anticipation built as the last student awaited their envelope, knowing they would claim the fishbowl and its contents. Moreover, faculty, staff, and guests were invited to participate in this tradition by “spiking” or feeding the fishbowl with more cash, adding to the communal spirit of the event.

Adding an element of whimsy, Match Day envelopes were delivered by the Student Affairs Deans dressed in Ghostbusters costumes, injecting a sense of fun and surprise into the proceedings. Gary McCord, MD, senior associate dean for Student Affairs and Admissions, randomly presented the envelopes to students, accompanied by each student’s chosen walk-up song. This personalized touch not only added flair but also provided insights into the unique personalities of the graduating class.

Once all envelopes were distributed, the room excitedly filled as students eagerly opened them. Cheers and jubilation filled the air as students discovered their residency placements. A PowerPoint presentation followed, showcasing each student’s photo, specialty, and match location, further amplifying the sense of accomplishment and pride.

Texas A&M University School of Medicine boasted impressive statistics for the 2024 Match Day. With 172 residents participating in the National Resident Matching Program, the school achieved an overall match rate of 90.1%. Notably, 37% of residents are matched in primary care specialties, reflecting the school’s commitment to addressing healthcare needs in underserved communities. Additionally, 89.5% of residents secured positions in post-graduate year 1 programs, demonstrating the preparedness and competitiveness of Texas A&M graduates.

Among the noteworthy statistics:

Early Match Results: 100% of early match participants successfully matched, including placements in military, ophthalmology, and urology specialties.
Primary Care Focus: 64 residents (37% of the class) matched in primary care, encompassing family medicine, internal medicine, medicine-pediatrics, and pediatrics.
In-State Residencies: A significant portion of residents, 107 (51% of the class), matched to in-state residencies, highlighting the strong ties between Texas A&M University School of Medicine and healthcare institutions within Texas.
Top Placement Institutions: Baylor Scott & White (Temple/Round Rock) welcomed 13 residents (8% of the class), while Baylor University Medical Center and Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital each matched 10 residents (6% and 5% of the class, respectively).
National Reach: Residents secured placements across the United States, with matches in states including California, New York, Florida, and North Carolina, reflecting the diverse geographic distribution of Texas A&M graduates.

Texas A&M University School of Medicine‘s 2024 Match Day was a resounding success, marked by tradition, celebration, and achievement. As students embark on the next chapter of their medical careers, they carry the values instilled by their alma mater – excellence, compassion, and dedication to serving their communities.