SIU School of Medicine celebrates Match Day and scholarships for new students

Match Day 2025 was a resounding success for Southern Illinois University (SIU) as graduating medical students celebrated their residency placements, marking a pivotal moment in their medical careers. Held a month ago, this annual event revealed where students would continue their training, with 20 out of 75 students choosing to remain within SIU programs, aligning perfectly with the institution's goal of retaining 25 to 30 percent of graduates.

Dean Cruz highlighted the impressive statistics, noting that 43 percent of graduates will stay in Illinois, contributing to the state's healthcare workforce. This year saw a notable surge in interest for emergency medicine, with 17 percent of the class entering that specialty. The match not only signifies personal achievements for the students but also has substantial economic implications for the state. The projected impact includes generating approximately 1,200 jobs and contributing $240 million annually to the Illinois economy, alongside $10 million in state and local taxes.

In addition to the medical school achievements, SIU's physician assistant master's students clinched the state championship for the sixth consecutive year, showcasing the institution's commitment to excellence across various health programs. As SIU continues to produce well-prepared graduates, the focus remains on enhancing healthcare in Central and Southern Illinois, reinforcing the university's vital role in the community.