Last month, physicians and physicists from across the country matched into residency programs. Here are reactions from a few.

Parris Diaz

Diagnostic radiology 

Residency match: Stanford Medicine 

Unlike most Match 2025 applicants, I not only found out I matched on Monday, March 17, but discovered my program by the listed city, state, and zip code. Opening that message and seeing the words « Congratulations, you have matched to … STANFORD, CA, 94305 » immediately brought a feeling of comfort, familiarity, and excitement. Not only was Stanford Radiology a place where I had the opportunity to interpret studies as a visiting resident, but also the location where I was almost 10 years earlier as a college student when I realized I wanted to become a physician and could do it. As a visiting college sophomore who was still undecided at that point, living on the Stanford campus as part of a health career opportunities program gave me the tools, mentors, and confidence that I could succeed in this career. Stanford has always held a special place in my heart, and matching there feels like a storybook ending to one of the scariest chapters of my professional life. 

Making the decision to leave the institution and urology field I worked so hard to reach was extremely difficult and isolating. It wasn’t until I shared my story that I realized many had done it before and many will after me. Speaking to those who went through it and who are at different stages of their careers motivated me and gave me mentors. One thing I’ve learned is that there are many individuals contemplating change, and that does not make them any less exceptional or dedicated. Change is OK and completely normal. While it is extremely uncomfortable, it is worth it.

Danet Lugo

Diagnostic radiology 

Intern year and residency match: GME at HCA Florida Aventura Hospital 

As a first-generation college graduate and the first doctor in my family, matching into my dream specialty was one of the most meaningful moments of my life. The days leading up to Match Day were filled with nerves, excitement, and reflection on all the years of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance it took to get here. I thought constantly about my parents and everything they had given up so I could chase this dream. Opening that email, surrounded by them, and matching into a program that feels like home, in the city that shaped me, was overwhelming in the best way possible. I felt pure joy, disbelief, and relief all at once. It was a moment where everything came full circle. I felt incredibly grateful, not just for the outcome, but for the journey and the amazing people I met along the way. I’m excited to begin this next chapter of my life! 

Sarah Montaquila 

Interventional radiology/Diagnostic radiology 

Intern year: HCA Florida Westside Hospital 

Residency match: UC Irvine 

I’m very happy and grateful to have matched at such an amazing program! I was instantly impressed with UC Irvine’s diagnostic and interventional radiology programs at my interview and was very excited about the potential of being able to join their team. Application season was an incredibly stressful process. Knowing that I matched at my dream program makes me feel like it was all worth it in the end, and I’m excited for what is to come!