RISE Leadership Development Programs for Medical Students
Helping the next generation of physicians succeed academically and grow into effective leaders, RISE: Developing Future Leaders in Academic Medicine & Science is a transformative program designed to equip students with essential leadership skills and insights that will support their journey through medical school and beyond.
Benefits of RISE Programs
Research shows that leadership training is most impactful when integrated early into a student’s medical education. At the AAMC, we’re committed to helping the next generation of physicians not only succeed academically but also grow into effective leaders. The RISE curriculum focuses on four key pillars: Relationships, Influence, Self-Awareness, and Effectiveness, ensuring that students are prepared to lead with confidence, empathy, and impact.
“RISE is life-changing. I arrived thinking it’d be competitive, but everyone was there to build each other up. It gave me hope that this generation of doctors will uplift and lead the healthcare field.”
Matthew E. Bane, M.D. Candidate 2027, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University
Explore RISE Programs
Explore RISE for Second-Year Medical Students
This 2.5-day seminar is for rising second-year medical students, focusing on leadership skills like self-awareness, team communication, wellness, and time management. Attendees will learn strategies for effective leadership, build mentor relationships, and strengthen their ability to motivate others. Ideal for student leaders, including class officers, peer mentors, and community advocates.
Explore RISE for Fourth-Year Medical Students
This 2.5-day seminar is designed for graduating fourth-year medical students, preparing them for the transition to residency with key leadership skills. Participants will learn to build on their strengths, manage conflict, develop support systems, navigate time management, and prioritize well-being and resilience. Ideal for students about to start residency who want to go in with confidence, purpose, and a clear sense of their value.
About the Nomination Process and Fees
The AAMC will accept up to two nominated students per institution on a first come, first served basis. To ensure that no more than two students are nominated per institution, nominations should be submitted by the Associate Dean or Director of Student Affairs when possible.
The AAMC is offering these events at no charge and will fully cover the registration fee, all program supplies, and all meals for participants. We ask that institutions cover travel and hotel accommodations for their student representatives at the seminar. In addition, we will request that students agree to provide thorough feedback to inform the AAMC as we continue to shape our programming to best meet the needs of medical students.