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For most of the graduating class, this transition means preparing for private practice. For a select few, however, the learning process will continue after leaving ³ûÄñÊÓƵ as they embark on postgraduate residency programs.

CDMA students have the option to participate in the Postdoctoral Dental Matching Program, a two-stage mechanism that helps place newly graduated Doctors of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) into residency positions across the country. The first stage of the current match cycle completed on November 20, 2023, and the second stage concluded on January 22, 2024.

This year, 11 CDMA students matched out of the PDMP, and following spring commencement will be heading to residencies in orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, and advanced education.

We asked Class of 2024 graduates Jacob Williamson (oral surgery, Mayo Clinic) and Megan Schwecke (pediatric dentistry, Meharry Medical College) about their match experience and what they are looking forward to in their residencies:

Describe your reaction when you found out you matched:

Jacob: Honestly, it is hard to find the words for it – almost like a moment of clarity where I could look back and truly appreciate all the ups and downs of my education and training. Every sacrifice, early morning, and seized opportunity flourished into a single moment of huge appreciation.

How did your education at ³ûÄñÊÓƵ prepare you for this opportunity?

Megan: ³ûÄñÊÓƵ helped build the foundation for my dental education and allowed me the opportunities to determine that pediatric dentistry was the right path for me.

What do you look forward to in this upcoming experience?

Jacob: It is such an incredible opportunity to train at an institution known for its excellence in healthcare and education. I feel honored to have been selected and I am excited to learn from and contribute to this amazing group of people and the patients we care for.

Megan: I am looking forward to continuing my education and refining my skills on the newest generations, as well as being able to provide positive early dental experiences that will set each patient on the path to dental success.

CDMA 2024 Matches By the Numbers:

• 11 current students and alumni matched to residency programs
• 3 students matched to oral surgery residencies
• 5 students matched to pediatric dentistry residencies
• 2 students matched to orthodontic residencies
• 1 student matched to an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency