Communication Tools for FMIGs

Effective communication with classmates and faculty is key to a successful FMIG. Use the resources below to inspire interest, recruit members, educate people about the value of family medicine, give effective presentations, and connect with other FMIGs.

You have the freedom to use these tools in whatever way best serves your FMIG–have fun and be creative!

Communicate the Value of Family Medicine

• Responses to Medical Students’ FAQs About Family Medicine — This American Family Physician article addresses many of the myths or misconceptions about family physicians.
  
• Advocacy and You — Share reasons why advocacy efforts are important, including the right to health care for all Americans, and ways to get involved.
• “Choose Family Medicine” brochure — Get a brief introduction to family medicine.
• Global Health in Family Medicine — Information for students interested in global health and international rotations.
  
• “Find Your Fit” postcard — Use this postcard to recruit FMIG members.
  
• “Find Your Fit” poster — This 11"x17" poster can be displayed on bulletin boards at your medical school.
  
• Online Student Resources — AAFP resources to help you learn more about family medicine and succeed in medical school.
• NEW! Resources from the AAFP's Family Medicine Champions program. Download What is Family Medicine?, The Educational Path to Family Medicine, Balancing Medical School Debt and Income as a Family Physician, and The Business of Health Care and Family Medicine's Role. Learn more about becoming a Champion here.

Manage the Match

• Strolling Through the Match: A comprehensive guide to the Match process, produced annually by the AAFP.
  
• AAFP App: This handout features the AAFP app's Match and study resources for medical students.
  

Presentation Center

Giving a presentation on family medicine to medical students? See below for tips on how to deliver an effective presentation.

• Get inspired. Watch the AAFP’s "What is Family Medicine?" webcast. The hosts use storytelling to engage their audience and adapt slides to deliver a compelling talk.
  
• Share. The AAFP's presentation — "What is Family Medicine?" — will answer questions and share all that family medicine has to offer. 
  NEW! 9 Signs Family Medicine Might Be Right for You.
• Include your own personal reflections and narratives, as well as research to support your key points.
  
• Be creative! Use high-quality visuals, video, and audio clips to help impart your message.
  
• Consider sharing a relevant brochure or handout at the end of your talk.
  
• Seek feedback. Ask attendees to complete a presentation evaluation.
  
• Recruit members to your FMIG and the AAFP. Student members can join the AAFP for free and access many benefits. Print and distribute copies of the AAFP student membership applications.

Videos and Webcasts

Sometimes you just have to see it for yourself. These must-watch videos make a great addition to a talk about family medicine by introducing a number of meaningful insights, experiences, and creative approaches to thinking about the specialty.

Podcasts

Get inspiration for your presentation by listening to interesting conversations about family medicine on the American Family Physician podcast. Each of these episodes features interviews with people who have unique perspectives on the specialty. After your talk, send these links to students who you think will connect with these stories.

Further Research for Your Presentation