NORTH AUGUSTA, SC. (WJBF)- It’s the most wonderful time of the year if you’re a medical student!
Parents, faculty and staff came together to celebrate the 246 students in the class of 2025, as they prepare to officially start their careers as doctors.
After cheesing for a class picture, students making their way down to the field eager to find out what program they’re matched with.
But some are celebrating their match in more ways than one.
“We actually met in our first year of medical school, and it went really quickly from there,” said Hannah and Hunter Spivey. “We managed to plan a wedding during the hardest rotations that we were on, but it was really worth it!”
“I was originally going to do pediatrics, but then I decided I really wanted to do family medicine. Then I got pregnant at the beginning of my clinical rotations, so my daughter Millie came with me throughout my whole clinical rotations and now we’re here together,” said Jessica McElrheh.
The Class of 2025 also started their journeys in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—a challenge their class president says has made everyone stronger.
“We were also going through a curriculum change during our second year for the three-plus curriculum. Going through that plus doing virtual was very interesting, but I think everybody persevered,” said Queen Abure.
MCG students also got to dress in themed costumes for the celebration.
This year’s theme is Heroes vs. Villains, and some got a little creative.
“We’re thick as thieves. This whole day is about community, being together and celebrating with each other. So, we thought, what better costume than to literally be attached to each other,” said Pearson Kudlata. “It’s a front of the dog with a slink in the middle and a rear end in the back. Together, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.”
When it came time to open the envelopes—scenes of jubilation.
“This is why we do what we do. Every student here has a story of obstacles they’ve overcome to get this, and this is a real moment for them, their families and all their support systems. This is where we celebrate their accomplishments, and we know they’re going to go onward and upward and do great things,” said Dr. Russell Keen.
With students dressing up as heroes and villains, school leaders say it’s the perfect opportunity for them to realize their futures are bright as the true heroes in healthcare.
