The past four months, the Internal Medicine Residency Program conducted hundreds of interviews with trainee applicants. Although some second-look visits from applicants are yet to come and there are some weeks to go before rank lists are due in anticipation of Match Day on March 20th, the busiest phase of the recruitment cycle has concluded. This alone was plenty enough reason for trainees and leadership to celebrate recently at Field Day Brewing Co. in North Liberty.

Embracing their first opportunity to come together since the start of interview season, program members and their loved ones enjoyed a night of delicious food, refreshments, relaxation, conversation, and, of course, bowling.

The conclusion of interview season was not the only reason for the gathering, however. Guests came together to celebrate our many graduating residents who successfully matched to fellowships across the country. In addition, the winter season is an especially busy time, when trainees often step up to ensure coverage throughout the department. For this reason, the residency program’s “winter recognition” party stands out as a particularly special event for giving thanks, recognizing their sacrifices, and just for catching up.

Residents and faculty alike took great joy in this chance to bond outside the clinic. There were many laughs to share—not to mention, countless duck-pin bowling strikes to celebrate.