High School Alliance of Future Physicians (HSAFP): What It Is & How to Join

If you’re a high school student interested in becoming a doctor, you don’t have to wait until college to start exploring medicine.

Supported by MedSchoolCoach, the High School Alliance of Future Physicians (HSAFP) gives students an early way to connect with physician-led resources and learn more about the path ahead.

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What Is the HSAFP?

The HSAFP is a nationwide organization with local chapters and individual membership options for high school students interested in healthcare.

Students can join or start an HSAFP chapter to access physician-created educational resources, hands-on and virtual activities, and guidance on opportunities such as shadowing, volunteering, and research. HSAFP also offers a monthly curriculum built around many of the competencies the AAMC identifies as important for future medical students.

HSAFP Resources and Opportunities

HSAFP is designed to make the path toward medicine easier to understand and explore.

Depending on the program or chapter, you may have opportunities to:

• Explore different medical specialties. Virtual shadowing and physician-led programming can give you a closer look at what doctors in different fields actually do and help you think more intentionally about your interests.
• Build foundational skills and knowledge. HSAFP offers physician-created curriculum and activities that introduce students to medical concepts, clinical skills, and competencies that will continue to matter throughout the premed journey.
• Learn how to find meaningful experiences. Resources on shadowing, volunteering, research, and other healthcare-related opportunities can help you begin building experience while you're still in high school.
• Prepare for college and the premed path. HSAFP provides guidance on topics such as choosing a college, applying to BS/MD programs, and understanding what to expect as a future premed student.
• Connect with other students interested in medicine. Local HSAFP chapters give you a place to learn with peers, discuss interests, and participate in activities with other students who are considering similar careers.

The goal isn't to make you build a med school application while you're still in high school. It's to give you opportunities to explore medicine now so you can make more informed decisions about what you want to pursue later.

How to Start an HSAFP Chapter at Your High School

Looking to create a community of future physicians right at your high school? Starting an HSAFP chapter in your school is an excellent way to unite students who share a passion for medicine. It's not just about the resources; it's about building a platform for mutual support and inspiration, a place where the dream of a career in medicine feels a little closer.

HSAFP provides step-by-step support to help new chapter leaders get started, along with physician-designed curriculum and activities you can use throughout the year. Your chapter might host clinical skills workshops, discuss medical research, invite physician guest speakers, take part in community health projects, or explore other healthcare-related opportunities.

To get a chapter up and running, you’ll need a faculty advisor and a student leadership team, along with approval from your school to start a student organization.

Starting a chapter can be a meaningful way to explore your own interest in medicine while giving your classmates the chance to do the same.

Consider joining the High School Alliance of Future Physicians or leading a new chapter on your campus.