Keep building radiology exposure

Get more time with the work

A radiology elective at your own institution is often the simplest next step. Ask your clerkship or student-affairs office about availability across diagnostic radiology, breast imaging, interventional radiology, and other subspecialties. If your school has limited options, ask whether a visiting elective is appropriate for your year and schedule. Visiting electives are more formal than casual shadowing and may involve applications, institutional approval, fees, and onboarding.

AAMC Visiting Student Learning OpportunitiesSearch and apply for participating institutions’ short-term clinical or research electives. Confirm your school participates and review each host’s requirements and fees.AAMC resources for U.S. rotationsReview the practical requirements and considerations for visiting electives before contacting a host program.

Find a radiology community

A radiology interest group can make it easier to hear from residents and faculty, join case discussions, and meet peers. You can also use national medical-student resources when your school has no active group. Availability and membership terms vary, so begin with the organization’s current student page.

ACR radiology interest groupsFind information and tools for medical-student radiology interest groups, including ways to connect with groups across schools.ACR Medical Student SectionExplore student-focused events, educational resources, and ways to connect within radiology.RSNA trainee resourcesBrowse radiology learning, events, and research opportunities; check which offerings are intended for medical students.

Try a structured project or program

If you enjoy a deeper commitment, consider a case-based project, supervised imaging research, or a formal enrichment program. These are options, not requirements for deciding whether radiology fits you. Selection, timing, and eligibility can change from year to year.

ACR PIER programLearn about a selective virtual summer radiology experience for eligible early medical students. Check the current cycle’s criteria before applying.ACR Radiology-TEACHESExplore education on appropriate imaging, including opportunities to learn through case development and mentorship.RSNA Medical Student Research GrantConsider a supervised imaging research project if academic radiology interests you. This is a competitive grant with specific eligibility and deadlines.

Keep the next step personal

Notice what each experience teaches you about your preferred workday, patient contact, pace, teamwork, and tolerance for uncertainty. A useful next step may be another subspecialty rotation, a small project with a radiologist, or a conversation about a part of the field you have not yet seen. This page is a growing reference list, not a residency-application or placement service, and listing a program does not imply affiliation or endorsement.

Continue this pathway

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