Future Military Physicians Find Their Match
CCOM students celebrate early residency placements through the military match
- IL - Downers Grove
Midwestern University students meet up at their Direct Commission Course. Top, left to right: Chris Simon (CCOM ’27), Kevin Casey (CCOM ’26), Sarah Middleton (CDMI ’26), and Zach Ganger (CCOM ’26). Bottom, left to right: Madison Katz (CCOM ’26), and Coral Feldman (CCOM ’26).
For a small group of Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM) students, Match Day arrived early, bringing with it pride, purpose, and anticipation.
The University recently hosted a dinner honoring osteopathic medicine students who successfully matched into military medical residencies through the military match, a separate and earlier residency process for medical students participating in programs such as the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) or those already serving in the Armed Forces.
Among them was Madison Katz (CCOM ’26), who matched into Emergency Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia–Augusta University, a civilian hospital affiliated with nearby Fort Gordon.
“This was my number one pick, so I was beyond thrilled,” Madison said. “At MCG, I get to train in a Level I Trauma Center with a highly diverse population, which will give me the repetitions and variety that I learn best from.”
Madison, currently a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, will be promoted to Captain upon graduation and is excited for the next step in her journey.
“Emergency medicine and the military have felt like such a natural fit for me, with both being team sports that require excellent communication, dedication, and loyalty,” she said. “I’m proud to wear the same uniform both of my parents have worn and to have the opportunity to serve those who serve.”
She also credited Midwestern University’s curriculum for preparing her for the next step.
“I’ve appreciated the breadth that our curriculum has provided,” Madison said. “Now I can take those broad strokes and find the most relevant pieces to engage in the emergent setting.”
Beyond academics, Madison emphasized the importance of community, both at Midwestern and within the military student population.
“There are so many benefits to being in HPSP at CCOM,” she said. “Beyond the financial support, the military community we have here has been crucial. We share advice, help each other navigate rotations and housing, and support each other through the process.”
CCOM Military Match Results
| Student | Branch | Specialty | Program | City | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kendal Benson | Army | Anesthesiology | Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) | San Antonio | TX |
| Kevin Casey | Army | Pediatrics | Madigan Army Medical Center | Tacoma | WA |
| Coral Feldman | Army | Obstetrics & Gynecology | Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) | San Antonio | TX |
| Zachariah Ganger | Army | Emergency Medicine | Carl. R. Darnall Army Medical Center | Killeen | TX |
| Madison Katz | Army | Emergency Medicine | Medical College of Georgia-Augusta University | Augusta | GA |
| Aaron LaRiva | Army | Transitional Year | Tripler Army Medical Center | Oahu | HI |
