VP&S Class of 2026 Celebrates Match Day

With friends and family present, and after months of anticipation, the countdown began. Ten, nine, eight, ….

Finally, at noon on March 20, 135 fourth-year medical students at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons opened the envelopes containing their match letters and learned where they will continue their medical training after graduation.

Match Day is a nationwide event when residency applicants across the United States (and worldwide) who have successfully matched to a clinical training program in the U.S. learn which residency program they will begin in the coming months. A total of 38,354 medical students matched this year through the National Resident Matching Program.

The Match Day celebration at VP&S was held in the Hudson Lounge at 50 Haven Avenue and featured remarks from Katrina Armstrong, dean of VP&S; Jean-Marie Alves-Bradford, associate dean for student affairs, support, and services; Monica Lypson, vice dean for education at VP&S; and Salila Kurra, associate dean for student career development at VP&S.

Armstrong shared her hope and optimism for all that the graduating class will accomplish during their residency and beyond. “Wherever your journey takes you today, know that you are not just matching into a residency—you are stepping into a community of lifelong colleagues and mentors who will support you throughout your career. Wherever you match today, remember that the values and education you received here will guide you in every step of your career.”

Among the 135 VP&S students who matched this year, the most popular residency matches were internal medicine (25%), neurology (8%), psychiatry (8%), and anesthesiology (7%). About a third of the class elected to stay at Columbia, said Kurra. “I think that says a lot about the quality of their experiences here as medical students.”

Scott Kelly, who matched in anesthesiology at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and felt “very excited and a bit overwhelmed,” has grown to love CUIMC and its environs. “I’m from Ohio, but I’ve come to love New York City, Washington Heights, and Columbia. I’m really happy to stay here and to keep contributing to the community here.”

For students who matched elsewhere, new horizons await. Alysala Malik, who matched in orthopedic surgery at Stanford, wanted to share the moment with those who had supported her. “I am so grateful for all the people here at Columbia, my family, and my friends who have helped me along this journey. I’m so excited for the future and the adventures to come!”

Kurra, who helps guide every VP&S student through the match process, said this year was particularly gratifying. “We had a 100% match year, so everyone has firm plans for their next step.” And, Kurra added, “I know this group. Wherever their residencies take them, they will be wonderful ambassadors for Columbia.”