The 2026 Michigan Future of Family Medicine Student Conference & Residency Connection brought nearly 90 medical students together with family physicians, residents, and residency programs from across Michigan on Sept. 12 at the Sheraton Detroit Novi Hotel. The event allowed students to explore diverse career paths in family medicine, connect with residency programs, and gain insight into the specialty’s opportunities.

“This was a great opportunity to explore the different career options within family medicine. I loved the variety of physicians who were there,” shared one student attendee.

Throughout the morning, students rotated through small group discussions exploring 18 areas of focus within family medicine. They participated in hands-on clinical workshops covering punch and shave biopsy, suturing, and women’s health.

Fourth-year medical students attended a Residency Interview Preparation Panel tailored for those entering the 2027 Match. This new session offered practical advice and perspectives to help students prepare for residency interviews and the next stage of their medical education.

“The interview panel discussions and the opportunity to meet program directors, faculty, and residents from family medicine programs across Michigan were very valuable,” shared one student attendee. “It allowed me to introduce myself, learn more about the programs, and build meaningful connections before submitting my application.”

The two-hour Residency Connection session enabled students to meet representatives from 24 residency programs, ask questions, and learn more about family medicine training opportunities across Michigan.

For students early in their medical education, the conference highlighted the wide range of career possibilities in family medicine.

“I really enjoyed attending the conference. It was a great opportunity to learn, connect with family physicians, and gain valuable insights into family medicine,” shared another student. “Thank you to MAFP for organizing such a welcoming and informative experience.”

MAFP thanks the family physicians, residents, residency programs, clinical workshop volunteers, and small group discussion leaders for their contributions to the conference. We also appreciate the ongoing support of the Southeastern Michigan Academy of Family Physicians and the efforts of the FMFM Student & Resident Education Committee in planning another successful event.

We look forward to bringing Michigan's family medicine community together again in 2027. Stay tuned for details!