Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) student Lauren Beranek was matched to the University of Colorado neurology program on March 21 through the National Residency Matching Program.

Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) student Lauren Beranek was counting down to March 21, which was Match Day for all graduating U.S. medical students.

On Match Day, thousands of students learned where they would complete the next leg of their training. All are participants in the National Residency Matching Program, which places medical students with a residency program based on mutual interest. Last year, MCW students matched to residency programs in thirty-three states.

Beranek didn’t know for sure where she would be placed for her residency in neurology. She matched to the University of Colorado and is thankful for the path travelled so far.

The oldest of seven children from Marathon, Wisconsin, Beranek worked as a certified nursing assistant in high school.

As a college freshman, Beranek’s sister suffered an anoxic brain injury, which led to Beranek’s interest in neurology. From that experience, she gained an admiration for the autonomy and leadership of the care team and realized she possessed those qualities, too.

Being accepted to MCW-Central Wisconsin was the perfect fit for Beranek in many ways, especially since her husband had matched to a residency in Wausau. She also appreciated the accelerated three-year program at MCW–Central Wisconsin, as well as the people she met along the way.

In particular, she values the mentorship received from Associate Professor of Neurology Dr. Ahmed Obeidat and Assistant Professor of Medicine Dr. Colette Solatka.

“I’ve been doing research with Dr. Obeidat since my second year of medical school,” Beranek said. “He’s given me so much guidance and inspiration toward pursuing a career in medicine.”

Beranek hopes her future practice will have a combination of research, education, and clinical care. She’d also like to return to Wisconsin’s Northwoods, as doctor shortages and limited resources often result in long waits and extensive travel for more complicated care.

“I’m very much drawn to central Wisconsin and rural Wisconsin in general. It’s just a warm, inviting community,” Beranek said.