CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) — Friday was a big day for medical students across the country.
It’s Match Day.
You could feel the nerves and excitement inside California Health Sciences University on Friday morning.
Medical Students were picking up the envelopes that detail where they will complete their residency.
Ranvir Johal was one of those students.
The Caruthers High graduate says he wanted to become a doctor after growing up in the rural community and seeing the healthcare disparities and barriers for agricultural workers, and for people like his parents, who immigrated from India.
Then, going through UCSF Fresno’s Doctors Academy in high school helped confirm his path.
“It kind of planted this early seed that I wanted to pursue this medicine, and UCSF Fresno, definitely, that Doctor’s Academy program in high school, kind of watered that seed,” Johal said.
That early connection is why Johal made UCSF Fresno his top choice for his residency, as he specializes in internal medicine.
“Would be a great full circle moment. Stay at home with my family’s support and continue to become a physician in the communities that I grew up in as well,” Johal said.
Dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine Dr. John Graneto says students apply and interview at multiple programs.
Friday at 9 am was when they’d finally find out where they’re going.
Many of the students fulfilled the college’s mission and stayed in-state.
“So for this class, we’re very excited that 72% of them are going to remain in California,” Graneto said. “But even on top of that, 34% of the class is going to be in the Central Valley,”
Dr. Graneto announced that three of the 131 medical students were matched at UCSF Fresno.
Once the countdown to 9 am was over, Johal got to open his envelope and see that he was one of them.
Celebrations and happy tears followed throughout the room.
For Johal, seeing UCSF Fresno as his match allowed him to finally exhale.
“My parents immigrated here from Punjab and just seeing their hard work, how much love and support they’ve poured into me, my siblings, how much love and support they pour into me, it’s been nice. It’s been – I’m just glad to see it all come to fruition today,” Johal said.
Students will take part in the commencement in May, and then they will begin their residency over the summer.
For news updates, follow Jessica Harrington on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Copyright © 2026 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.