NYC Gazette

When Tony Asfour began his studies at the NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, he did not expect to meet Katie Goldrick, who would become his partner both in life and career. The two medical students, now engaged, made history as the first couple from their school to match together for residency programs on Match Day.

“I am a very shy person and was a little late for orientation. The only seat left was next to Katie, and they became our unspoken assigned seats throughout the year,” said Tony. “We became really good friends, but eventually I realized I had found my best friend and the love of my life.”

Their journey is part of a larger narrative at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine. This institution offers a unique three-year tuition-free program with an emphasis on primary care, aiming to address the nationwide shortage of primary care physicians.

“We are incredibly proud of our senior students who have successfully matched into residency training programs today,” stated Gladys M. Ayala, MD, MPH, FACP, dean and professor of medicine. “This achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the comprehensive education they have received at our institution.”

Match Day is a pivotal moment for medical students as they learn where they will continue their training as residents. For Katie from Wantagh, Long Island, and Tony from Lebanon, matching at the same Manhattan-based hospital fulfilled a significant wish.

“Tony and I bring out the best in one another as people and as future physicians,” said Katie. “He brings magic to every situation and always makes patients smile. I am so excited to be sharing my residency journey with him.” Tony added that “Katie is going to make an excellent physician. Patients are going to be lucky to be under her care.”

More than 70 percent of this year's graduates from NYU Grossman Long Island School will enter primary care fields such as internal medicine and pediatrics. Notably, over 80 percent will remain in New York for their residencies—a key goal of the school's mission.

“These future physicians will play a crucial role in addressing the healthcare needs of the communities they serve," said Dr. Ayala. "We are confident they will have a profound impact on the field of medicine and the lives of their patients."

NYU Langone Health supports this initiative with its robust healthcare system known for achieving top patient outcomes nationally.

NYU Grossman Long Island School opened in 2019 offering innovative educational programs aimed at preparing its graduates for impactful careers in health systems locally and nationally.