Matching into residency is one of the most important moments in a medical student’s journey. However, for those pursuing Military Medicine, Urology, or Ophthalmology, the process presents unique challenges, distinct timelines, and high stakes. Unlike the traditional National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), these specialized matches operate under separate systems, requiring strategic planning, early applications, and exceptional preparation to secure a coveted spot.
The Military Match provides medical students the opportunity to train in military hospitals while serving as commissioned officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force. Unlike the traditional NRMP Match, the Military Match follows an earlier timeline, typically concluding in December—months before civilian match results are released. Applicants must navigate strict eligibility requirements, complete military-specific rotations, and rank programs within their designated branch.
Competition is particularly fierce for certain specialties, requiring strong academics, leadership experience, and a demonstrated commitment to military medicine. The selection process not only evaluates candidates’ clinical acumen but also their ability to function as leaders in high-pressure environments. Despite the challenges, the Military Match offers a structured, financially supported path to residency, allowing physicians to serve their country while gaining invaluable experience in military medical settings.
Peter Allegre, who matched into Internal Medicine at Wright-Patterson AFB, shares his thoughts on the military match experience: “Choosing to match military is a great opportunity for students looking to practice medicine in a unique environment and provide care to service members and their families. There are also many perks financially that include no medical school debt and higher residency pay. Knowing that I was planning to do the military match influenced my decision-making around my schedule in 3rd and 4th year. Because of the advanced timeline of the military match, I had to schedule my board exams and audition rotations earlier than my non-military colleagues. Advice I would give to future students considering pursuing the military match: the world of military medicine is smaller than you think, so it pays to make connections and network!”
The Urology Match, an independent match facilitated by the American Urological Association (AUA), is highly competitive, with a national placement rate favoring MD applicants—94% of placements are MDs, while 57% of DO applicants successfully match. This rigorous process requires applicants to demonstrate excellence in academics, research, and clinical performance.
On February 3, 2025, WesternU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) celebrated the success of two students, Sam Stewart (COMP-Northwest) and Darren Teramoto (COMP), who matched into St. Joseph’s Medical Center’s Urology program in Stockton, California. This program, which hosts two residents per class, filled both available positions with WesternU applicants.
Sam Stewart, originally from the San Juan Islands in Washington, developed a strong work ethic while working at his family’s bakery, Café Demeter. During medical school, he conducted research at the Benaroya Research Institute, focusing on patient satisfaction with a new treatment for stress urinary incontinence. Darren Teramoto, a Southern California native, brings his passion for teamwork and precision to the field. His background in basketball and baseball instilled discipline and a strong work ethic that seamlessly translated into surgical training. Darren also held multiple leadership roles and was highly regarded during his clinical rotations.
Ophthalmology residency applicants participate in the San Francisco Match (SF Match), one of the most competitive specialty matches. With a national placement rate of 95% for MDs and only 32% for DOs, securing a spot requires outstanding academic performance, research experience, and clinical excellence.
On February 4, 2025, Keiko Inouye (COMP) learned that she matched into Corewell Health Taylor Hospital’s Ophthalmology program in Taylor, Michigan. A fifth-year NMM/OMM fellow at WesternU COMP, Keiko has earned the admiration of faculty, staff, and peers. Beyond her medical accomplishments, she has a creative side, running a successful Etsy shop for over a decade where she creates custom artwork. Her blend of scientific precision and artistic skill will serve her well in the field of ophthalmology.
While early matches are important, the majority of medical students secure their residency placements through the NRMP Match, which took place on March 21, 2025. This milestone marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. We’re proud to share that COMP and COMP-Northwest achieved a 100% placement rate across both campuses, with 57% of graduates matching into primary care specialties such as Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Pediatrics, along with placements in nearly every medical specialty. This achievement reflects the strength of our college and the steadfast support of our faculty and staff.
The success of those who participated in early specialty matches is cause for celebration, as is the NRMP Match. Sam, Darren, Keiko, and the many students celebrating Match Day have gone above and beyond during their medical school journeys, engaging in research, mentoring underclassmen, and completing rigorous away rotations across the nation.
We are proud to have supported these outstanding students throughout their match season. Their success exemplifies the dedication, resilience, and excellence required to thrive in specialized residency matches. We look forward to celebrating all students following their careers as they make lasting contributions to their respective fields and the broader medical community.
