Dear future doctor,

Congratulations for starting medical school! The next years will be among your most memorable, exciting, and formative years with many opportunities for personal, academic, and professional growth. Getting into medical school is an incredible accomplishment. I encourage you all to reflect on how far you’ve come, how much you’ve already accomplished and to celebrate the fact that YOU are the next generation of physicians!

It is my honor to welcome you all to the Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS), a national, student-run organization with a rich history whose mission is to connect, support, and represent your voice and your interests. As a CFMS member, you are part of a network of over 9,000 medical students from 15 schools across Canada and have access to leadership and advocacy opportunities through our Board, our Portfolios and their respective initiatives, national/international conferences, career development, residency match supports, scholarships, local initiative grants, research features, discounts, and more. I encourage you all to take full advantage of everything the CFMS has to offer!

Medical school is going to be an incredible time. You will meet a community of students from diverse backgrounds as well as many inspiring mentors, preceptors, and patients! I encourage you to embrace the diversity in your class, get to know each other, support and be kind to each other, establish a culture of safe and brave learning, and remember that you are NOT alone! The CFMS is here to support you at every stage of your medical training.

If you have ANY questions/comments/concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected] or message me on social media. My door and the CFMS’ door are always open! Welcome again to the CFMS, I can’t wait to meet you all throughout the year!

Sincerely,

Sam Alatorre (He/Him)

CFMS President 2024 - 2025

Click here to read the full letter from our President