One medical student at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Robert “Evan” Levy, recently found out he matched in an early match program in ophthalmology.“Ophthalmology is a very competitive residency,” said Dr. Susan LeDoux, associate dean for medical education and student affairs and professor and vice chair of the department of cell biology and neuroscience at USA.
The majority of medical students go through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) to find out where they will be doing their residency training following graduation, but students who wish to match in ophthalmology and urology participate in a specialty match program that takes place months before Match Day on March 21st.
Levy matched at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill’s Ophthalmology program. “I was overcome with excitement and relief.”
His interest in ophthalmology began when he witnessed a cataract surgery in high school. Levy volunteered at a hospital in Birmingham where he had the opportunity to view multiple cataract surgeries, as well as oculoplastics surgery.
He furthered his interest in ophthalmology by doing a year of research at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital the year before he started medical school.
While a third-year medical student, Levy shadowed several ophthalmologists in Mobile and Birmingham. “It reignited my interest, and I have been hooked ever since,” said Levy.
“We are extremely proud of Evan,” said Dr. LeDoux. “It is always rewarding when we have the opportunity to witness students fulfill their dreams.”Levy is the first physician in his immediate family. His hard work complemented by the instruction received from the USA College of Medicine has provided him the opportunity to pursue his career vision as an ophthalmologist.
This year, the USA College of Medicine's Match Day ceremony will take place March 21, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. at the Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel in Mobile.
