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Background Surgical skills training is a recognized vital component of medical education, yet a standardized curriculum does not exist. Early opportunities for skills development and mentorship may increase student interest in pursuing surgery. We evaluated the effects of a student-led, faculty-supervised suture clinic on student comfort level with basic surgical skills and interest in surgery. Methods A cohort survey study of 103 second-year medical students participating in a surgical skills course was performed between the years 2016–2018. Upon completion of the course, we assessed their comfort level with performing six basic skills as well as their interest in pursuing surgery based on pre- and post-course surveys. Results Mean age was 25 years and 50.5% were female. Most students (61.2%) had no prior suturing experience. Upon completion of the course, there was a significant improvement (p =, Highlights • Learning suture skills early in medical school leads to future operative confidence. • Early suture skills teaching can significantly increase skill level among junior medical students. • Suture clinics can provide students opportunities for mentorship and encourage interest in pursuing surgical specialties. • Medical Students appropriately trained can lead a suture clinic, minimizing demand on faculty support.