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)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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.

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.

Be Active

The mission of "Be Active!" is to foster community building while encouraging physical activity. We aim to create friendly competitions between students and staff to strengthen our connections beyond the classroom. Our goal is to offer students a fun, stress-relieving environment to help them unwind from academic pressures. We hope to see all of you guys at our next event!

Buddhist Meditation

Meditation can be a crucial tool in student wellness, especially in the life of a busy medical student. The mission of the Buddhist meditation interest group is to promote student wellness via in person mediation sessions, explore different techniques of Buddhist meditation, and create an inclusive yet pressure free environment for participants of all backgrounds to gain the lifelong skillset of a proficient meditator. May all beings live happily.

Cardiology Interest Group (CIG)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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. 

Dermatology Interest Group (DIG)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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.

Emergency Medicine Interest Group

Specialty Student 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. 

ENT Interest Group (ENTIG)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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.

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

Specialty Student 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. 

Inland Empire Street Medicine Clinic

The purpose of this organization shall be to allow for more accessible healthcare to persons experiencing homelessness in the local community. Our goal is to build relationships and trust with persons experiencing homelessness by offering access to resources and support. By building rapport with this population, we hope to foster more long-term relationships between persons experiencing homelessness and primary care clinicians in the area. Through organizing a bi-monthly clinic with graduate professional schools through the UCR School of Medicine, local community organizations, and undergraduate volunteers, we can bridge the gap between the homeless population and the medical community.

Internal Medicine Interest Group (IMIG)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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 Conversation Workshops

The Medical Spanish Conversation Workshops is offered to all medical students interested to speak Spanish with their peers who are heritage and native speaks. 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.

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

Specialty Student 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. 

Obstetrics and Gynecology Interest Group

Specialty Student 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

Specialty Student 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.

Organized Medicine    

The goal of Organized Medicine is to train future health care providers in effective civic engagement, to promote medical student involvement in health policy, and to provide UCR student representation at local, state, and national advocacy events. Our goal is that every graduating future practitioner feels competent in their ability to access their local, state, and federal government, both as individual citizens and as healthcare providers who care for diverse patient populations.

Orthopaedic Surgery Interest Group

Student 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.

Osteopathic & Natural Medicine Interest Group

To treat our patients first and their illnesses secondarily and to treat their illnesses with natural remedies to reduce the number of possible side effects pharmaceutical medicines carry. The world around us has untapped resources and what we eat has power, let us use what is natural and unprocessed so that we may better the lives of others.

Pediatric Interest Group

Student 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.

Physician Scientist Interest Group

At the UC Riverside SOM Physician-Scientist Interest Group, our mission is to empower and inspire medical students to excel in research through comprehensive education, mentorship, and peer support. We are dedicated to fostering a vibrant community where future physician-scientists can thrive by developing skills required to balance future clinical responsibilities with research activities, gain access to resources to enhance their research capabilities, obtain peer-to-peer evaluation, and build networks with others who share their research interests. We are committed to energizing and encouraging our colleagues to embrace the evolving landscape of medicine through research, ultimately nurturing the next generation of physician-scientists.

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Interest Group

Specialty Student Interest Group

The mission of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Interest Group (PRSIG) at UC Riverside School of Medicine is to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to plastic and reconstructive surgery. We aim to offer an in-depth review of the diverse surgeries within the field and expand student knowledge and interest in reconstructive procedures such as cleft palate reconstruction and pectoral major advancement flaps for trauma patients. Our goals include hosting suturing workshops and other hands-on training sessions to develop practical skills, creating a platform for students to establish mentorship relationships with plastic surgeons in the Inland Empire, and providing insights into the residency application process along with valuable advice from plastic surgery residents and specialists. Through these efforts, PRSIG is committed to fostering a supportive and informative environment that prepares students for successful careers in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Psychiatry Student Interest Group

Specialty 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.

Pulmonary and Critical Care Interest Group (PACCIG) 

Specialty Student Interest Group

The Pulmonology and Critical Care Interest Group (PACCIG) is committed to increasing student exposure to the dynamic field of pulmonary medicine, with a focus on hands-on learning and critical care experiences. Our mission is to provide opportunities for skill-building, expert-led discussions, and mentorship while highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing complex respiratory diseases. Through workshops, clinical exposure, and interactive events, we aim to inspire future healthcare professionals to pursue excellence in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Together, we strive to advance knowledge, teamwork, and innovation in respiratory health.

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.

Spanish for Advancing Language and Understanding in Diagnosis (SALUD IG)

SALUD IG is an interdisciplinary academic organization dedicated to supporting graduate and professional students who are passionate about the social, cultural, ethical, and humanistic aspects of health, illness, and medical practice. Our mission is to equip future healthcare professionals with the necessary tools, resources, and support to meet the growing demand for Spanish-speaking healthcare providers in diverse clinical settings. We aim to create a space for cross-cultural discussion and learning, where students from all academic, clinical, and professional backgrounds can come together to share ideas, experiences, and insights. Additionally, SALUD IG is committed to fostering community health and advocacy work, providing a platform for students to engage in initiatives that address healthcare disparities and promote equitable access to care for underserved populations. Through this work, we seek to cultivate a generation of healthcare professionals who are not only skilled providers, but also compassionate advocates for social justice and health equity.

Sports Medicine Interest Group (SMIG)

Specialty Student Interest Group

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!

Surgery Interest Group

Student 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.

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.

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.

UV&Me

The mission of UV&Me is to educate local elementary students about skin cancer and UV exposure and provide them with the knowledge to protect themselves from sun damage. UCR med students interested in community medicine, pediatrics, and dermatology, engage with the community by delivering interactive presentations to children and adolescent participants through their school classrooms. The goal is to create greater awareness about healthy skin habits and encourage confidence in the skin that they are in. 

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.

Vital Signs of the Christian Faith

Our mission is to empower medical students to integrate their passion for Christ with their calling to serve others by 1) participating in Bible study with the Inland Empire Redeemed Christian Fellowship, 2) equipping local churches with tools and knowledge for healthier living, and 3) building mentorship opportunities through networking with mission-driven physician speakers. We strive to create an inclusive, supportive community where faith and medicine come together to impact lives spiritually and physically.

Women in Surgery

The Women in Surgery Interest Group is dedicated to empowering and supporting women pursuing careers in surgery. Our mission is to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that promotes professional growth, provides mentorship, and advocates for gender equity within the surgical field. Through networking opportunities, educational events, and advocacy efforts, we strive to inspire and equip the next generation of women surgeons to excel and lead in their professions.

Yoga, Meditation, and Mindfulness Interest Group

The Yoga, Meditation, and Mindfulness Interest Group is dedicated to fostering mental and physical well-being among students. Our mission is to equip current students and future physicians with practical techniques to manage the stress and demands of the medical field. Through engaging events and workshops, we promote mindfulness, meditation, and yoga as essential tools for resetting and maintaining balance. By cultivating a supportive community focused on holistic health, we empower students to prioritize self-care and build lifelong habits that enhance resilience, focus, and overall well-being.