Tucson Standard

On March 21, 2025, medical students from the University of Arizona's College of Medicine in Tucson and Phoenix discovered their residency placements during Match Day. This event marks the transition to the next phase of their medical careers.

The National Residency Matching Program coordinates Match Day nationwide on the third Friday in March. Students learn where they will continue their training after four years of study, research, and rotations.

Celebrations took place at both campuses: Tucson students gathered at Old Main's west lawn, while Phoenix students met under palo verde trees at the Biomedical Sciences Partnership Building. Graduates were matched to over 60 training centers across approximately 30 states. Notably, 52% of Tucson students and 31% of Phoenix students will remain in Arizona for part or all of their residency.

Dr. Michael Abecassis, Dean of the College of Medicine – Tucson, addressed his students: "The realization that the current leg of your journey is nearly over...makes for mixed emotions," he said. He encouraged them to focus on their achievements as they look forward to future challenges.

Fred E. Wondisford, Dean of the College of Medicine – Phoenix, praised his students' potential: "Whether you are staying here in Arizona...or heading to a prestigious program across the country, we know you will go on to do great things."

Curtis McGuire from Tucson plans to specialize in anesthesiology: "I love the one-on-one patient care," he expressed. In Phoenix, Gillian Reynoso reflected on her path: "My goals going into residency are to brace myself for the training ahead," she said.

Match Day statistics reveal diverse outcomes for graduates from both colleges. In Tucson, 43% will complete residencies within Arizona; primary care fields attracted 38.8%, while others chose specialties like emergency medicine and psychiatry. In Phoenix, among those staying in Arizona for residency training are students placed at U of A facilities and other institutions like Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education.

Graduates now prepare to begin residencies across various states as they embark on this new chapter in their medical careers.