Class of 2026 Celebrates Match Day Milestone

(March 27, 2026) - Cheers, tears and tightly held envelopes filled the ballroom at the Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key on March 20 as members of the School of Medicine Class of 2026 gathered to learn where they will spend the next chapter of their medical training.

Surrounded by family, friends and faculty, students counted down together before opening envelopes that revealed their residency placements, a culmination of years of rigorous study, clinical training, and personal growth.

Before the moment arrived, Norman J. Beauchamp Jr., MD, MHS, executive vice president for health sciences and executive dean for the School of Medicine, delivered opening remarks reflecting on the significance of the day.

"This moment represents persistence, resilience, intelligence and pursuit of purpose," Beauchamp said. "If you are holding an envelope today, that in and of itself is worthy of huge celebration."

A Day of Gratitude and New Beginnings

For many students, Match Day was defined by both relief and excitement coupled with the realization that their next journeys are just beginning.

Amanda Wibben (M'26), who matched in obstetrics and gynecology at Westchester Medical Center in New York, described the moment as "thrilling and relieving," especially because of the shared success among her close friends.

"My three roommates from the first two years of medical school and I all matched in New York," Wibben said. "It was the nicest surprise to know we'll all be so close to each other."

Wibben, who has been deeply involved in community health work with immigrant and refugee populations as a Global Health Institute student fellow, said she is especially grateful that her residency will allow her to continue serving similar communities.

"I just couldn't feel more privileged to continue that work," Wibben said.

For Michael Covell (M'26), who matched in neurological surgery at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, the day was a culmination of both accomplishment and preparation.

"I feel really excited and grateful," Covell said. "Georgetown prepared us so well, not just clinically, but in how to treat patients and meet them where they are."

A Pellegrino Student Scholar and former student director of the CORE program, Covell emphasized that the values instilled while at the School of Medicine will guide him throughout his career.

"No matter the specialty, those core building blocks in caring for others stay with you," Covell said.

Staying Close to Home

For some students, Match Day also meant staying connected to the communities they've come to know during medical school.

Hye Sung Sanding (M'26), who matched in psychiatry at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Health System, expressed excitement about remaining in the region.

"I'm glad I get to stay in the area," Sanding said. "[VCU] has strong training in women's mental health, which is what I want to pursue."

Kahiau Cockett-Nagamine (M'26), who matched in internal medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, reflected on the full-circle nature of his journey.

Having first come to Georgetown through the SHAPE pathway program and then as an ARCHES fellow, he credits mentorship as a defining influence.

"One of the biggest takeaways for me is mentorship," Cockett-Nagamine said. "It allows you to pave the way for others. I definitely want to carry that forward as a resident and beyond."

A Shared Achievement

As students embraced loved ones and celebrated their matches, the sense of shared accomplishment was palpable.

"This is a moment not just for those holding envelopes," Beauchamp reminded the audience, "but for all those who walked alongside you."

Some students chose to celebrate their Match Day with their friends and family in other locations. Daniela Hernandez (M'26) found out she matched in pediatrics at Orlando Health alongside her family in Florida.

"This moment is incredibly meaningful, because it reflects not just my hard work, but the sacrifices and support of my immigrant Cuban family who stood by me through every step," said Hernandez. "Matching is a reminder of how far we've come together. As I step into residency at Orlando Health, I'm most looking forward to growing into a pediatrician who advocates for children and families, advances health equity, and cares for minority and underserved communities."

With placements spanning the country and across a wide range of specialties, the Class of 2026 now prepares to step into residency programs where they will continue their training, care for patients, and shape the future of medicine.

Heather Wilpone-Welborn
GUMC Communications

Match Day 2026: By the Numbers