On Friday, March 15, fourth-year doctor of osteopathic medicine students gathered on campus for one of the most important days in a medical student’s career, the day they learn about their residency placement, where they will spend the next few years after graduation concentrating on their chosen specialty              . 

This year’s event was the second Match Day for PCOM South Georgia, which opened in the fall of 2019. At noon, the DO students – and other medical students participating in the National Resident Matching Program – found out about their residency placement.

“PCOM has taught me to be adaptable and has challenged me to push forward to do the best that I can,” Ivanna Ward (DO ’24), said. “I'm super excited. I'm thankful for everything they've taught me.”

The class of 2024 stands out because these students, the second doctor of osteopathic medicine cohort at PCOM South Georgia, began their medical school career in the fall of 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I think that because PCOM South Georgia is such a new campus, we were able to experiment and really direct what we needed to do,” Derek Tang (DO ’24), said. “Because of all that, and plus COVID hitting us, we're very much like diamonds under pressure. I think that, plus the faculty and staff really being understanding and helping facilitate that environment for growth, has been one of the greatest things to help with our journey.” 

John Abdool, chair of the class of 2024, addressed his classmates just before they opened envelopes at noon revealing their residency placements. 

“Let our love for medicine be a beacon of hope for those we serve, guiding us through the challenges that lie ahead and illuminating the path toward a brighter, healthier future for all,” he said. “Congratulations, class of 2024. Our journey is only just beginning. Let us go forward with passion, purpose and a steadfast commitment to making a difference in the world. I am proud of each and every one of us. Let us continue to be proud of ourselves and be proud of where we come from. We are PCOM South Georgia strong!”

 These students will graduate from PCOM South Georgia on May 16.