Know before you go

Get ready for FUTURE

This is a chance to grow skills, make valuable connections, and get inspiration straight from specialty leaders. You may feel overwhelmed when you see the conference schedule, but we promise you’ll find your groove. It’s helpful to pre-plan your agenda and Expo Hall visits!

It’s helpful to research what FUTURE offers before attending. Here’s where you can start.

Identify sessions, speakers and networking events you don’t want to miss.

Note which residency programs or exhibitors you want to meet. Like Careerlink in AAFP Central, where you can have your CV reviewed or discuss next steps in your career.

Get all your questions answered on our FUTURE FAQ webpage.

Looking for a dinner companion or running buddy? Want to know what other attendees are excited about? Chat with other attendees in the FUTURE mobile app.

Enjoy your trip to KC with meals at favorite restaurants or find info for museums, shops and other local attractions you want to hit up.

Think creatively about your schedule. A session outside your comfort zone might resonate with you.

• Choose sessions strategically. Review the schedule in advance and save sessions that relate to your interests and goals.
• Diversify your schedule. Explore a mix of session types and formats, such as keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops and interactive sessions. Variety can provide different perspectives.
• Record sessions to refer to later. Ask permission to record first.

What should you expect when you visit a residency program booth?

Program representatives are typically current staff, residents and faculty, including program directors. These are the same people you’ll meet during interviews, but these interactions are much more casual.

Allow yourself enough time to have meaningful conversations with the programs that interest you. Looking to make a good impression? Bring a positive attitude and curiosity.

With workshops designed to help you succeed in med school, you’ll get a clearer picture of your future in medicine. Attend sessions focused on clinical skills, leadership development, career planning and more.

Our programming not only helps you discover what makes family medicine so great, but also which specialty would be the right fit for you. Our sessions are geared toward helping med students succeed in med school, no matter the specialty and stage.

Here’s what 2025 conference chairs Austen Ott, MD and Kate Tian, MD said about their time at FUTURE:

Austen: “I get so excited when I meet or collaborate with other students who are excited about family medicine.”

Kate: “You never know at what point you're going to be inspired. It could be at a talk, it could be Main Stage, or it could be a random conversation at a residency booth.”

This is your onsite guide! The FUTURE app offers daily schedules, directories, maps, a way to favorite sessions and more.

We want you to feel prepared for FUTURE. Here we answer a few questions we get most often. We also have a full FAQ page you can look through.

What should I put into my Maps app?

FUTURE takes place at the Kansas City Convention Center in downtown KC. The address is 301 W. 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105.

Where should I go when I arrive?

Head to Registration in Lobby 2300. You’ll get everything you need!

Join us at the Regi-ception and Solo Travelers Reception from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday evening. You’ll find a relaxed space to meet fellow attendees who came to FUTURE on their own.

What’s the dress code for FUTURE?

That’s completely up to you! For the Regi-ception, most people are coming from the airport, so travel clothes are fine. Sure, this may be your first time meeting your peers, but we want you to be comfortable. People wear everything from a suit and tie to scrubs.

FUTURE Celebration on Friday is a Hollywood Premiere-themed party! Go glam or keep it low-key with shorts and Ts. Dress the way you want!

What should I bring with me each day?

Comfortable shoes, plus something to take notes with, a snack and water, long sleeves (the ballrooms can get chilly), and anything else you need to get the most out of your days.

Are meals provided?

• Wednesday and Thursday evening: You can grab heavy appetizers at Regi-ception on Wednesday evening and at the Expo Hall Grand Opening on Thursday evening.
• Thursday and Friday during the day: You’ll get FREE coffee and beverages before and after the keynote speakers. Food trucks will be on-site both days for food purchases. Additional concessions are available for purchase throughout the Convention Center and Expo Hall.
• Saturday: You can grab some light bites from the relaxed Expo Hall Brunch.

Will the conference be streamed virtually?

No, the event is in person only. But you can take notes and download slides in the FUTURE app.