South Middlesex Times

Medical students across the United States recently experienced the excitement of Match Day, a day when they found out which hospitals had accepted them as residents. Among the thousands of students who participated in this annual event were Esther Jang, Kemi Alabi, and Justin Montague, each with their unique stories and aspirations.

Esther Jang, a soon-to-be graduate of Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, was inspired to pursue a career in medicine after a traumatic experience involving a plane crash. She shared, “When the emotions of the situation really hit me, the people who were able to give me the most comfort were the physicians.” Jang's dream is to have a similar impact on others as a doctor.

Kemi Alabi, a student at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, was motivated to enter the medical field after her family's experience during a time of civil war in Liberia. Alabi's commitment to serving others led her to establish community health initiatives and programs focused on addressing healthcare disparities. She expressed her gratitude for matching into a critical-care anesthesiology program at the University of California San Francisco.

Justin Montague, also from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, saw Match Day as a significant step towards fulfilling his goal of becoming the first doctor in his family. Montague's interest in public health and addressing health disparities in communities guided his path towards a career in internal medicine. He was thrilled to match at the University of Pennsylvania, his top choice.

The success of these students was reflected in the high match rates at their respective medical schools. At RWJMS, 97 percent of graduating students matched to a program of their choice, while at NJMS, 95 percent of students successfully matched. Dean Robert L. Johnson of NJMS praised the students for their hard work and commitment to medical excellence.

Match Day not only marked a personal achievement for these students but also highlighted the dedication and compassion they bring to the medical field. Dean Amy P. Murtha of RWJMS commended the Class of 2024 for their achievements and securing positions in esteemed residency programs, noting that they embody the excellence of the medical school's missions and values.

As these aspiring doctors embark on the next chapter of their medical careers, they carry with them the experiences and values that have shaped their journey towards making a difference in the lives of others.