Match made at KCU: Navigating Couples Match success

For most medical students, the fourth year is a whirlwind. For Kansas City University (KCU)-Joplin Class of 2025 College of Osteopathic Medicine alumni Mikayla and Dominic Maiuro, it was a mix of excitement, stress and careful planning as they worked toward their dream specialties.

Students juggle hands-on training, major exams and the demanding process of applying and interviewing for residency. “The whole fourth year felt like a rollercoaster,” Mikayla said. “Highs, lows and everything in between.”

Dominic agreed, noting that trusting the process was its own challenge. “It’s a long and unknowing journey through auditions and Match,” he said. “It requires a strong work ethic and a deep belief in your ‘why.’ It’s exhausting but incredibly rewarding and worth every ounce of effort.”

That rollercoaster came with an extra twist as the pair navigated the National Resident Matching Program’s Couples Match. Unlike the standard Match where applicants rank programs independently, the Couples Match allows two applicants to link their lists, ranking pairs of programs in every combination they’d be willing to accept. The algorithm then treats them as a unit, matching them only if both can secure positions in the same city or region.

"The Couples Match definitely adds pressure," Mikayla said. "You’re not just thinking about your own future, you’re making sure both of you can find the right programs. It takes planning, flexibility and a lot of communication."

Mikayla credits early preparation and mentorship as key to navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of starting early, building connections and seeking guidance from residents, preceptors and KCU faculty.

“My mentors encouraged my passion for global medicine, pushed me to grow as a leader and future physician and provided tangible experience that prepared me to think critically and care for patients with confidence,” she said. “Residency is important, but being a good student and a good person matters just as much. Build relationships, get involved and be prepared for whatever comes your way.”

After years of preparation, planning and hard work, Mikayla and Dominic achieved their goal matching into two of medicine’s most competitive specialties, both known for fierce competition and limited openings. Mikayla secured a coveted spot in otolaryngology (ENT) at Detroit Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan, and Dominic matched into orthopedic surgery at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The couple married after graduation and found a place to live roughly halfway between both of their residency programs, allowing them to start the next chapter together.

Their experience reflects why KCU students consistently place into their desired specialties, with 81.3 percent of graduates entering their top choice specialty.

Dominic’s advice to future applicants “Be prepared,” he said. “Know the programs you’re auditioning at, do practice interviews and have someone read your personal statement.”

But success isn’t just about specialty prep, it’s about being a well-rounded applicant.

Mikayla put that philosophy of preparation and service into practice throughout medical school. She joined the Global Health Honors Track, participating in three KCU-led medical outreach trips, four total during her training and conducted international ENT research through the program. As a student leader on the global health trip to Kenya, she gained hands-on experience in care delivery across cultures.

On campus, she served as a tutor for students across multiple programs, volunteered through the Sigma Sigma Honor Society and mentored a local family toward healthier habits through CHAMPS, a Score 1 for Health program.

"It really comes down to being a strong, well-rounded candidate. Good grades, solid Step and COMLEX scores, leadership roles and volunteering,” she said. “Even if you’re not sure what specialty you want yet, these experiences matter."

Their experience demonstrates the education, training and support KCU provides to help students grow into the physicians they hope to be.