Student Interest Groups

About Student Interest Groups

The School of Medicine has a variety of student-run specialty interest groups that facilitate interaction and dialogue with relevant specialty physicians. The interest groups help organize specialty panels and also schedule sessions on topics related to residency.

For information on joining a specific group, email studentlife@medsch.ucr.edu or visit the Office of Student Affairs.

American Medical Women's Association (AMWA)

Our mission is to empower and advance women in medicine, ensuring they have equal opportunities to excel and lead in their respective fields. We are dedicated to advocating for gender equity, breaking down barriers, and fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive.

American Muslim Medical Student Association (AMMSA)

The American Muslim Medical Student Association (AMMSA) chapter at the UC Riverside School of Medicine strives to empower Muslim medical students through opportunities for excellence in spiritual growth, professional development, and community building.

Anesthesiology Student Interest Group (ASIG)

The mission of the Anesthesiology Student Interest Group (ASIG) is to provide medical students with increased exposure to the field of anesthesiology through the use of educational lectures, technical workshops, research engagement, and mentorship opportunities. Our goal is to support students in understanding the training, career paths, and lifestyles of practicing anesthesiologists.

The Art of Medicine

The Art of Medicine program at UCR School of Medicine aims to blend creativity with medical education in a fun and engaging way. Our mission is to provide a supportive environment where students can explore and enjoy various forms of art, like painting and crafts. Through hands-on workshops and events, we help students better understand medical concepts, enhance their well-being, and promote a holistic approach to healthcare.

Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association (APAMSA)

At APAMSA, we are dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of Asian Pacific American communities, supporting APA medical students, and advocating for APA-specific health issues. Our mission aligns with the University of California, Riverside (UCR) School of Medicine's vision of improving health outcomes for underserved populations in Inland Southern California. Together, we emphasize community health, support for diverse medical students, and addressing healthcare disparities through education, outreach, and advocacy. Our shared goals highlight a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive medical community that serves the unique needs of minority populations.

Business in Medicine Student Interest Group

The Business in Medicine Student Interest Group at the University of California Riverside School of Medicine is dedicated to equipping future physicians with the business, leadership, and financial acumen necessary to succeed in modern healthcare. Our mission is to bridge the gap between medical training and the financial and administrative realities of clinical practice by providing data-driven education on topics such as physician contracts, debt management, insurance literacy, taxation, retirement planning, investments, and career pathways. Through workshops, guest speakers, and seminars, we empower medical students to engage in informed discussions and develop the skills needed to make sound financial decisions throughout their careers.

Cardiology Interest Group (CIG)

The goal of the Cardiology Interest Group (CIG) is to motivate and educate future physicians interested in pursuing the field of cardiology and related sub-specialties. CIG aims to develop student interest and appreciation for the field of cardiology through interactive events, such as hands-on workshops, panelist sessions, guest speakers, mixers, and more, all involving experienced cardiologists and fellows.

Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA)

CMDA educates, encourages, and equips Christian healthcare professionals to glorify God. 

Christian healthcare professionals glorify God by following Christ, serving with excellence and compassion, caring for all people, and advancing Biblical principles impacting healthcare within the Church and throughout the world." (cmda.org/mission-and-vision)

At UCR SOM, CMDA aims to create a Christ-centered community in which students can grow closer to God, build meaningful friendships, encourage one another, and learn together how to live out their faith as medical students and future physicians.

Coachella Valley Free Clinic

Student Run Clinic

The mission of CVFC is to provide free medical care to the Eastern Coachella Valley community. This community is made up mainly of migrant, uninsured, and often undocumented farm workers. It is our goal to be able to give provide free basic care and connect them with social and healthcare resources. 

Costco Club

The Costco Club Student Interest Group aims to bring students together through shared access to affordable groceries and household essentials. By organizing group Costco trips, carpooling, and bulk-item sharing, we hope to build a supportive community that makes everyday living more manageable and strengthens peer connections.

Dermatology Interest Group (DIG)

The Dermatology Interest Group Association (DIGA) is a national student-run organization committed to providing volunteering, networking, and research opportunities to medical students interested in a career in dermatology. Each medical school has their own affiliated chapter. We aim to provide the same goals including connect students interested in Dermatology ,organizing guest speakers from the field and sharing resources and opportunities.

Diagnostic Radiology Interest Group

The mission of the Diagnostic Radiology Interest Group (DRIG) is to educate medical students interested in pursuing a career in the field of diagnostic radiology through networking, mentorship, and research opportunities. DRIG aims to increase awareness among students at the UCR School of Medicine for the field of diagnostic radiology and to provide connections and opportunities to assist students with their professional endeavors.

Disability Empowerment Interest Group

The Disability Empowerment Student Interest Group aims to expose medical students to the wide array of disabilities prevalent in the Inland Empire and amongst our very own community at UCR. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, our members will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, and how to apply this knowledge to improve patient outcomes. We strive to learn from experts across multiple disciplines in order to gain a more holistic approach to caring for individuals with disabilities. Ultimately, we hope to provide an inclusive, informative, and engaging space to prepare medical students for meaningful interactions with patients with disabilities and their families. 

Disaster Medicine Interest Group (DMIG)

The mission of the Disaster Medicine Interest Group (DMIG) is to expose medical students to simulated disaster scenarios and emergency situations through hands-on workshops, guest speakers, and certification courses. Students will be trained to function effectively and safely deliver rapid high-quality emergency medical care in austere conditions under high pressure. Our goal is to help students develop competencies in situational analysis, risk assessment, and planning in the face of natural disasters, mass casualties, and other unpredictable cases.

Doctor's Corner 

The Doctor’s Corner, founded in 2013, is a community outreach program that empowers students to engage with the public through supervised, educational lectures. By giving back in fun and interactive ways, students not only support their communities but also strengthen their medical knowledge, refine their bedside manner, and build confidence. Through these experiences, they continue developing the skills and compassion essential for their future roles as physicians.

Emergency Medicine Interest Group

EMIG is an organization composed of UCR medical students interested in pursuing careers in emergency medicine.

The goal of EMIG is to promote awareness of all aspects of Emergency Medicine and to provide educational opportunities for medical students interested in it. Join us at events throughout the year, such as our introduction to emergency medicine elective, procedure workshops, a wilderness medicine event, outreach programs to the community, and a speaker series with experts in emergency medicine. Our events are open to students at the UCR SOM. 

Empathy in Medicine - Schwartz Rounds

Schwartz Rounds, developed by the Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare, encourage healthcare professionals to share their experiences, build empathy, and explore the personal impact of healthcare work. Through guided reflection and discussion of different themes (i.e. diagnosis denial, the impact of unexpected deaths, end of life care, etc.), participants can engage with the emotional, ethical, and relational aspects of caring for patients.

ENT Interest Group (ENTIG)

The mission of the ENT Interest Group (ENTIG) at UC Riverside School of Medicine is to introduce students to the field of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and all of its subspecialties. ENTIG aims to provide opportunities for professional development, to establish a student network, and offer early exposure to the field to ultimately expand student knowledge and interest. Our goals also include hosting hands-on training sessions to develop practical skills - such as nasal endoscopy and fine needle aspiration - and fostering mentorship relationships with otolaryngologists across the Inland Empire. With these efforts, ENTIG is committed to creating a supportive and informative environment that prepares students for careers in otolaryngology. 

Family and Preventative Medicine Interest Group (FPMIG)

The Family and Preventive Medicine Student Interest Group is dedicated to inspiring and educating future healthcare providers. Our mission is to:

• Promote Learning: Offer engaging workshops, lectures, and hands-on experiences in family and preventive medicine.
• Foster Community: Build a supportive network of students, faculty, and healthcare professionals.
• Champion Preventive Care: Advocate for holistic approaches to improve community health.
• Support Careers: Provide mentorship and guidance for students pursuing family and preventive medicine.

Through these efforts, we aim to shape compassionate, knowledgeable healthcare leaders committed to the well-being of families and communities.

FirstGenMedTrailblazers (FGMT) Mentorship Program

Mission: To empower and support first-generation college students on their journey into medicine. We are dedicated to demystifying the path to medical school and providing personalized guidance to help the trailblazing individuals achieve their dreams.

Purpose: The purpose of our mentorship program is to pilot support for community college students who face disadvantages, such as being non-native English speakers or first-generation students pursuing a career in medicine. We will achieve this by creating individualized yearly academic and experiential plans and guiding them to up-to-date resources.

Health Impact Hub

Our mission at the Health Impact Hub (HIH) is to bridge the gap between health policy and medical practice by fostering collaboration between students from the School of Public Policy and the School of Medicine. Through interdisciplinary research, advocacy projects, and educational events, we aim to create a platform where future physicians and policymakers can learn from one another, develop a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape, and work together to address challenges in our communities.

We are committed to:

• Advancing knowledge: Hosting speaker events, journal clubs, and workshops to explore emerging health policies and medical advancements at local and greater levels.
• Driving advocacy: Engaging with local organizations and starting initiatives to empower students to be patient advocates and policy innovators.
• Fostering collaboration for change: Connecting medical and policy students through collaborative research, resolution-writing, and community engagement to develop solutions informed by both clinical and policy perspectives.

By uniting our future policymakers and healthcare professionals, we strive to create a stronger, more inclusive healthcare system that addresses the needs of patients in our Inland Empire community and beyond.

Health Innovations Interest Group

The Health Innovation Interest Group aims to explore how innovation is shaping the future of healthcare from digital health and AI to wearable tech and medical education reform. Our group hosts expert talks, community outreach events, and collaborative initiatives like our AI in medical education project, which works with faculty to integrate AI into the curriculum and improve how we learn medicine. This is also a space for students to build community and form meaningful connections with peers and professionals working at the intersection of medicine and technology.

Hematology Oncology Palliative and End of Life Care (HOPE) Interest Group

To provide students insights into the fields of hematology, oncology, palliative and end of life care, as well as advancements in these fields. Furthermore, expose students to soft skills such as discussion of death and end of life care with patients and their families. 

Internal Medicine Interest Group (IMIG)

The Internal Medicine Interest Group works to increase medical student awareness in the field of internal medicine. Medical students will have the opportunity to attend guest speaker events on internal medicine and subspecialties, network with internal medicine physicians, attend workshops, participate in internal medicine-related conferences, and promote community health.

Latinx Medical Student Association

The purpose of LMSA is to unify and provide a voice to all Latino and underrepresented medical students, and to educate and sensitize the entire medical community to the specific needs and differences of Latino and underrepresented Inland Empire communities regarding health and human well-being. LMSA will advocate for the rights of Latinos and underrepresented Inland Empire communities, and it will educate medical students on health issues specific to those communities, while improving the health care delivery to those communities. In addition, it actively promote the recruitment and retention of Latino and underrepresented students at all levels. We retain members in the health professions programs by supporting academic and social activities and by fostering close ties among members. LMSA provides leadership opportunities and promotes volunteerism among its members, and will provide a network with other organizations at the local and national levels to achieve common objectives.

Lifestyle Medicine

The Lifestyle Medicine Interest Group (LMIG) is dedicated to integrating the six pillars of lifestyle medicine— a whole food, plant-predominant eating pattern, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, effective stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and fostering positive social connections— into our medical education. Our mission is to empower students to adopt these pillars into their personal lives and equip them with the skills to support their future patients on their wellness journeys.

Medical Pride Alliance

We are the Medical Student Pride Alliance, a student group dedicated to creating inclusive spaces, mentorship opportunities, community focus groups, and educational programs for queer students and pride allies. Through our group, we hope to offer students a variety of community based opportunities to involve in LGBTQ+ initiatives at the school of medicine and locally within the community. Some of these initiatives include working with administration for LGBTQ+ Health curriculum development, collaboration with sister schools for the annual SoCal MedPride Health conference, creating a podcast to discuss marginalized population health issues, and developing new spaces for those within the community and beyond. 

Medical Spanish Interest Group and Conversation Workshops

The Medical Spanish Interest Group and Conversation Workshops seeks to foster interest in the Medical School Community in involvement in activities to advance the nourishment of the Spanish Language for medical purposes. As part of the Interest Group Conversation Workshops are offered to all medical students interested to speak Spanish with their peers who are heritage and native speaker. A total of five, in-person workshops are held throughout the academic year. Conversations are structured by a medical topic and activities encourage students to engage in dialogue with their peers. Other collaborations throughout the year provide opportunity for engagement and networking that aligns with the School of Medicine mission the health of our local communities and promotes diversity in thought and language.

Med Sports Collective

Med Sports Collective fosters community and connection among medical students, faculty, staff, and SOM affiliates through inclusive and engaging friendly sports events. By creating space for wellness, teamwork, and shared experiences outside the classroom, we aim to strengthen relationships and promote a sense of belonging across all members of the medical school community.

Middle Eastern Medical Student Association (MEMSA)

The Middle Eastern Medical Student Association (MEMSA) exists to build a strong, inclusive community for Middle Eastern medical students and allies through cultural connection, social engagement, and mutual support. MEMSA promotes the sharing and celebration of Middle Eastern cultures within the medical school, while fostering meaningful relationships among members and with the broader community. The organization is committed to supporting the professional and academic development of its members through mentorship, research, and leadership opportunities, and to guiding pre-medical students through accessible mentorship and education. Additionally, MEMSA seeks to raise awareness of health disparities affecting Middle Eastern populations and to encourage culturally informed, equitable care through education and advocacy.

Music and Medicine

The mission of Music and Medicine is to create an environment for students to enjoy music and de-stress from their fast-paced medical school life. We aim to engage students and community members in the power and healing of music through community outreach and social events.

Neurology Interest Group

SIGN promotes the highest quality of patient care and advances the specialty of Neurology. Through values of integrity, professionalism, leadership, and excellence we look to further and foster the interest in the field of neurology. This chapter introduces and aids students that are interested in neurology and allows appreciation for the field. 

Neurosurgery Interest Group

Our mission is to support and inspire UC Riverside School of Medicine students pursuing neurosurgery through specialty exposure, mentorship, and hands-on skill development. We strive to cultivate a collaborative community at UCR SOM that promotes academic growth, clinical confidence, and meaningful connections with neurosurgery faculty and residents throughout the Inland Empire and Southern California. By engaging in simulation workshops, research initiatives, and community outreach, we aim to empower future neurosurgeons while advancing neurological health awareness in the Riverside community.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Interest Group

This group welcomes anyone interested in exploring the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health. We provide resources to educate and support students pursuing an interest in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ophthalmology Interest Group

The mission of the Ophthalmology Interest Group (OIG) is to inspire and educate medical students interested in pursuing a career in the field of ophthalmology through networking, mentorship, and research opportunities. OIG aims to increase exposure and awareness among students at the UCR School of Medicine for ophthalmology and to provide connections and opportunities to assist students with their professional endeavors.

Orthopaedic Surgery Interest Group

The mission of the Orthopaedic Surgery Interest Group (OSIG) is to provide all interested students with early exposure and access to the wide-ranging subspecialties within the field of orthopaedic surgery. This is accomplished through informational meetings with surgeons of a variety of orthopaedic subspecialties. Students who are considering a career in orthopaedic surgery, as well as those who are simply curious about the field, are invited to join.

PathIG: Pathology Interest Group

Our mission is to foster a passionate and inclusive student community dedicated to the exploration of pathology. Doing so by providing interactive, hands-on activities, educational resources, clinical exposure, and faculty mentorship. We aim to bring awareness to the vital role pathologists play in healthcare by bridging the gap between foundational science and diagnostic medicine. We are committed to highlighting the broad range of career paths within the specialty, advocating for greater diversity in the field, and empowering students to confidently pursue a future in pathology.

Pause 4 Paws

Our mission is to nurture student well-being and foster a sense of belonging by building meaningful connections between people, pets, and the community. Through hands-on volunteer opportunities at local pet adoption shelters, such as dog walking, enrichment activities, and collaborative outreach, we empower students to care for themselves and others, strengthen community bonds, and experience the joy that comes from giving back together.

Pediatric Interest Group

The Pediatric Interest Group at UCR School of Medicine is dedicated to fostering a passion for pediatric medicine among medical students by providing educational opportunities, clinical experiences, and community outreach. Our mission is to inspire future pediatricians through mentorship, advocacy, and engagement with children’s health issues, ultimately improving the health and well-being of children in our communities.

Psychiatry Student Interest Group

The Psychiatry Student Interest Group introduces medical students to the specialty of psychiatry by fostering interaction with clinical faculty and community physicians, and bringing guest speakers to discuss special topics (e.g. forensic psychiatry, work-life balance). PSIG aims to provide opportunities for professional development (residency mock interviews), establish a student network, and offer early exposure to subspecialties.

RacketRx Student Interest Group

RacketRx is dedicated to promoting wellness, community engagement, and professional development through racket sports and health advocacy at the UC Riverside School of Medicine. Through recreational play, tournaments, social events, educational programming, and mentorship opportunities, RacketRx seeks to strengthen connections among students, faculty, and the broader community.

Renal and Pelvic Health Interest Group

The Renal & Pelvic Health Interest Group is committed to advancing education, collaboration, and service in kidney, urologic, and pelvic health. We strive to provide medical students with meaningful exposure to urology, nephrology, and related specialties through mentorship, shadowing, research, and educational programming. By partnering across disciplines, including primary care and OB/GYN. we aim to raise awareness of kidney disease prevention, pelvic floor disorders, urinary health, and other commonly underrecognized conditions while serving our community through outreach, advocacy, and health education.

Riverside Free Clinic    

Student Run Clinic

RFC is a nonprofit organization that provides free interdisciplinary health and wellness care to the underserved population of the Inland Empire while also providing an effective training environment for future healthcare professionals and leaders dedicated to serving the Inland Empire.

Sports Medicine Interest Group (SMIG)

The Sports Medicine Interest Group at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine aims to increase student exposure to the diverse field of Sports Medicine, facilitate mentorship and community outreach opportunities, and develop skills involved in clinical practice, including but not limited to ultrasound-guided injections, diagnostic sports physicals, and sideline coverage. Students of all levels are invited to join and explore the vast world of Sports Medicine!

Student Interest Group in Neurology

The Student Interest Group in Neurology is dedicated to fostering curiosity, knowledge, and professional growth among medical students interested in the field of neurology. Our mission is to provide opportunities for students to explore the diagnosis, treatment, and research of neurological disorders through educational events, workshops, and clinical exposure. We aim to connect students with faculty mentors, residents, and practicing neurologists to support career development and mentorship. By promoting awareness of the impact of neurological disease, we strive to inspire advocacy and compassion for patients and families affected by these conditions. Ultimately, our goal is to cultivate future physicians who are well-prepared to contribute to advances in neurological care and research.

Student National Medical Association

Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians.

The UCR SNMA Chapter upholds this mission by empowering students at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine to lead initiatives, advocate for health equity, and serve the Inland Empire’s diverse communities through mentorship, outreach, and community engagement.

Students for a National Health Program (SNaHP)

Students for a National Health Program (SNaHP) at the UCR School of Medicine is dedicated to advancing health equity through education, advocacy, and scholarship in support of a universal, single-payer health care system. Grounded in the belief that health care is a human right, our chapter works to promote patient-centered care, physician autonomy, and health policy that prioritizes public good over profit. We seek to promote a healthcare system committed to improving access, quality, and affordability of care for the medically underserved communities of Inland Southern California and beyond, regardless of patients' socioeconomic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, age, residency status, or disability. Our efforts are aimed at achieving our ultimate goal of repairing our broken health system through the implementation of a single payer healthcare system for all.

Surgery Interest Group

The Surgery Interest Group at the UCR SOM is committed to promoting surgery as a career, enhancing the surgical education of medical students, and giving them every opportunity to thrive, learn, and become a leader in surgery.

Surgery Olympics Interest Group 

SOIG is committed to empowering medical students with the exposure, experience, and mentorship necessary to pursue a career in surgery. Through hands-on suturing workshops, academic research opportunities, and community outreach, we help students develop the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to become not just competent surgeons but determined and empathetic ones. We believe in building the hands, minds, and hearts of future surgeons. We are SOIG!

UCR Medicine Run Club

UCR Medicine Run Club aims to foster an inclusive and supportive community centered on a shared interest in the sport of running. To this end, UCR Medicine Run Club provides a forum for organized training and knowledge-sharing, promoting health, wellness, and personal growth for runners at all levels.

UCR Medicine Ski and Board Club

UCR Medicine Ski and Board Club aims to increase accessibility to snowsports for all students at the University of California Riverside School of Medicine while promoting overall wellness and camaraderie. We believe that the practice of skiing and snowboarding is not just a recreational activity but also an avenue for physical and mental rejuvenation.

UCR Medicine Weightlifting Club

The UCR SOM Weightlifting Club aims to promote physical and mental wellness through strength training, provide a welcoming community for students of all fitness levels, and teach safe, evidence-based lifting techniques while helping students build lifelong healthy habits.

Vascular and Interventional Radiology Interest Group

The Vascular and Interventional Radiology Interest Group (VIRIG) is dedicated to fostering interest, education, and professional development in the field of vascular and interventional radiology. Our mission is to provide medical students with opportunities to learn about the latest advancements, techniques, and career pathways in interventional radiology through workshops, lectures, and networking with professionals in the field.

White Coat Cafe

White Coat Cafe is a student-led space where medical students come together over tea and coffee to build community through conversation. We source and feature local teas and roasters with lectures focused on brewing, tasting, and learning about the cultures, methods, and stories behind each cup. By creating a space for those passionate about tea and coffee, White Coat Cafe fosters connection, curiosity, and a sense of calm within the intensity of medical training.