Wright State medical students bring medicine to life for Mini University preschoolers

Stuffed animals became patients and preschoolers became doctors when Mini University at Wright State University transformed into a bustling “teddy bear hospital” on Nov. 6.

One by one, curious preschoolers unloaded their animals from a cardboard box labeled “Teddy Bear Transport” and took them through five medical stations operated by Boonshoft School of Medicine students.

“We have the kids take the vitals on their animals, get an X-ray, practice getting shots and practice getting surgery,” said Katie McGreal, a third-year medical student who helped organize the teddy bear hospital.

The annual event, now in its third year at Mini University, helps ease preschoolers’ anxiety about visiting a hospital or doctor’s office.

“I think we enjoy it just as much as they do,” said Caroline Goeller, a fourth-year medical student who assisted students in the eyes, ears, nose and throat station.

The event also gives medical students who plan to work in pediatrics an opportunity to interact with children.

“You can’t teach how to interact with children,” said Sarah Rainey, director of Mini University. “So, what we can do is offer those opportunities to the students so they can gain those skills.”