When University Hospitals’ Center for Education and Diversity Inclusion (CEDI) set out to inspire future healthcare professionals, they turned to a unique, hands-on approach at the 3rd Annual Future Shades in Medicine: Youth Summit (#FSIM2024). This October, young men and women of color gathered at Huntington Bank Field to explore healthcare careers—experiences usually reserved for college and beyond.
Bringing Anatomy to Life with Giant Operation Deluxe
Our Giant Operation Deluxe stole the show, offering an interactive challenge with oversized tweezers, buzzers, and lights. Part game, part anatomy lesson, this super-sized experience gave attendees a taste of healthcare’s precision and focus, making careers in medicine feel within reach. More than just fun, it showcased the possibility of belonging in the field, inspiring the next generation to consider paths they may not have previously imagined.
Representation Matters: Changing Perceptions of Healthcare Careers
University Hospitals’ Future Shades in Medicine is about more than science; it’s about representation. By meeting minority healthcare workers and trying hands-on activities, young attendees could see that healthcare is a viable, inspiring career choice. One attendee, a repeat visitor, emphasized how the summit opens doors to careers beyond the usual media-driven sports and entertainment options.
Empowering Youth Through Hands-On Learning
The impact was clear: hands-on experiences like Giant Operation Deluxe help bridge the gap between curiosity and career ambition. Each year, students leave with newfound confidence, empowered by the knowledge that they, too, can find a place in healthcare.
