Inspiring Future Healers

PNWU’s Mini-Med School Triples in Size

On Saturday, March 22, PNWU welcomed nearly 300 young students — three times last year’s attendance — for our annual Mini-Med School. Hosted annually on our Yakima health sciences campus, the hands-on, immersive experience is designed to introduce kids to the world of medicine.

Hosted by PNWU’s student-led clubs, the event featured learning stations, an obstacle course designed by the Physical Therapy Club, first-aid training with the Family Medicine Club, and even a scavenger hunt to uncover the wonders of human health. From stethoscope demonstrations to teddy bear suturing stations, participants stepped into the shoes of healthcare professionals, exploring science and medicine in an interactive and engaging way.

“We’re showing them that becoming a doctor, a therapist, or a scientist is possible for them.”

“You cannot be what you cannot see,” said Student Doctor Kat Mislinski, PNWU College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2028, who served on the Mini-Med School planning committee this year. “Through our interactions with the kids, hopefully we can show them that people who are not that much different to them can become doctors, inspire them to follow in our footsteps, and send them home with some newfound knowledge about healthcare maintenance and wonder in science.”

With a record-breaking turnout, the event highlighted PNWU’s strong connection to the community and its mission to inspire future healthcare professionals — especially in rural and underserved areas.

“Mini-Med School is our way of celebrating young students in Yakima and encouraging their interest in health-related fields,” said Student Doctor Mislinski. “Hopefully, we’ve sparked a passion for medicine that will stay with them for years to come.”

The Pediatrics Club, which played a key role in organizing the event, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support. “We want to sincerely thank everyone who helped spread the word and made this event such a success,” said Student Doctor and PNWU Pediatrics Club President Atley Shapiro, PNWU-COM Class of 2027.