Transitioning to medical school is usually a shock for most students. It often involves getting out of one’s comfort zone, moving to a new location and tackling one of the most difficult curriculums in the academic world.
Establishing a support system can be the difference between surviving and thriving. Specialty interest groups often serve as the first point of connection for students, not only providing encouragement but also offering insight into specific specialties and aspects of medicine never encountered before. These groups can also foster curiosity and forge strong networks in those specialties.
Unlike more visible medical specialties, such as surgery or emergency medicine, radiology often operates behind the scenes. As a result, radiology may not be on the radar for early medical students unless they have a specific reason to explore it. This is where radiology interest groups (RIGs) fill a crucial gap.
RIGs are often a student’s first real doorway into the field of radiology. For many, exposure to radiology can be surprisingly limited. Without opportunities to see radiologists in action or learn about the specialty, radiology can feel like a bit of a black box. RIGs help change that.
By hosting talks with practicing radiologists and hands-on workshops, RIG leaders can spark interest in students who may not have otherwise discovered the specialty. In fact, one study found that 31% to 42% of pre-clinical attendees of RIG sessions reported an increased interest in radiology and influence on career aspirations.
Neil Kelekar, President of the Chicago Medical School RIG at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU), describes his experience: “The RFU Radiology Interest Group solidified my commitment to diagnostic radiology through collaborative leadership and advocacy opportunities,” he says. “As President, I helped lead our executive team to the Chicago Radiology Expo — an experience that deepened my appreciation for radiology’s role in championing patient-centered, preventative advocacy.”
After witnessing hands-on initiatives and expert speaker events, Kelekar realized that the field of radiology not only advances diagnostic efficiency but also serves as a powerful platform for patient-centered advocacy and care!
Another valuable aspect of RIGs is connecting students with mentors and leaders in the field. Without structured opportunities, finding a mentor in radiology can be challenging. Through RIGs, students gain access to enthusiastic faculty and residents who can serve as role models, answer questions and help them explore their interests. These mentors often open the door to research projects, shadowing experiences and clinical opportunities that provide invaluable insights into specialty choice.
Some RIGs collaborate with other interest groups to highlight how radiology supports nearly every field in medicine. For example, a joint session with the Emergency Medicine Interest Group might walk students through trauma imaging protocols. Other RIGs organize events for students on introductory imaging interpretation or hold discussions on how AI will be used to improve the field in the future. With AI and advanced imaging techniques reshaping the practice of radiology, RIGs can help students stay up to date by inviting experts to speak on these topics.
Ultimately, RIGs bridge the communication gap between medical students and the radiology community. RIG-involved residents often provide candid, practical advice and teaching points that help students understand what life in radiology is really like. Beyond knowledge and skills, these connections foster a sense of belonging and help students start building their professional networks early.
RIGs also serve to promote diversity in a field historically lacking in representation. Through speaker panels and outreach events, these groups encourage students from all backgrounds to consider a career in radiology.
RIGs are more than just extracurricular clubs; they’re catalysts for mentorship and community. For many medical students, they mark the beginning of a rewarding journey into the world of radiology.
What Is the RIG Initiative?
Recognizing the value of RIGs, the medical students (MSS) builds a bridge for these organizations on a national scale. The aim of the MSS RIG Initiative is to create a centralized database of contact information for RIGs across the country and in Canada to connect students with mentors and provide resources and opportunities to get involved.
ACR also uses this database to track and support RIGs, helping to ensure medical students at every school have access to the information and resources they may need. In the future, ACR may be able to facilitate virtual networking conferences, recognize outstanding RIGs and more.
Medical students around the world are doing incredible things in radiology, and our hope with this project is to help spread the word about their accomplishments while also informing students about ways to contribute and join the radiology community.
Get Involved
If you’re curious about radiology or thinking about spearheading your own RIG, contact your region on the MSS RIG Initiative map and ask how to get involved. Or you can start your own RIG by identifying a faculty sponsor, recruiting students, registering with ACR and planning your first event.
The ACR MSS offers many resources, including RIG Toolkits to help build local sessions, funding for workshops and more. Please share information about your program’s current radiology interest group and help us build connections.
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