Program Overview

Future Physician Leaders Program

The Future Physician Leaders program is a summer program for premedical students dedicated to improving the health of the community, specifically those from Inland Southern California. The program promotes lifelong mentorship and aims to support premedical students through their college journey to medical school. Throughout the year, students have opportunities to volunteer and participate in various health conferences, workshops, and community events.

Program History

The Future Physician Leaders (FPL) program is a community-based collaborative effort started in 2009 by Dr. Raul Ruiz, an emergency medicine physician at Eisenhower Medical Center. The program was created to support and guide students into a career in medicine, addressing the healthcare access crisis and physician shortage in the region.

Program Foundation

The foundation of the FPL mentorship program was built during a brainstorming session with Ruiz and 10 Coachella Valley students at a local coffee shop. The program has grown rapidly, with over 170 student participants, and has been recognized as a UCR School of Medicine pathway program aimed at preparing Inland Southern California students to become physician leaders in the community.

Program Details

• The program is designed for premedical students from Inland Southern California.
• It offers a summer program with opportunities for volunteer work and participation in health conferences, workshops, and community events throughout the year.
• The program promotes lifelong mentorship and support for students through their college journey to medical school.

Important Dates

• FPL 2026 Application Cycle: February 15, 2026 - April 15, 2026
• FPL Orientation: June 2026
• Program Start Date: June 2026
• Program End Date: July 2026

Program Components

• Leadership Lecture Series
• Mentorship Program
• Community Health Project

The Future Physician Leaders program is a unique opportunity for premedical students to gain valuable experience and mentorship in the medical field, with the goal of becoming physician leaders in their community.