The University of Virginia’s Department of Anesthesiology, in partnership with UVA Health and the Housestaff Community Development Initiative (HCDI), collaborated with Charlottesville’s City of Promise to host UVA Health Day Camp introducing local youth to careers in medicine. This was the second annual event, held on Tuesday, April 29th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the ERC Building.
Intended to foster long-term interest in healthcare professions, the program brought together UVA faculty and local students for immersive medical activities, mentorship, and career exploration.
“My favorite part of this event was seeing young people so enthusiastic about the medical field and hands-on learning,” said Dr. Josh Roach, a UVA anesthesiologist. “Their enthusiasm and questions remind me of why I went into medicine – something I often forget with the daily demands of work.”
Led by Dr. Josh Roach, and Khaing Nwe Phoo from Anesthesiology, along with HCDI community outreach leaders – Drs. Ansley Scott and Nouran Sinada, the event invited youth to explore medical equipment, practice basic clinical skills, and engage directly with healthcare professionals. From simulating anesthesia procedures to discussing college pathways, the program was developed to demystify the medical field and inspire future healthcare leaders.
The day began with icebreakers, a resident panel, and a presentation on the journey to residency and various healthcare careers. Students showed strong interest in paths such as nursing, EMT, and paramedic roles. This was followed by a tour of the Family Medicine Clinic and a session with Perioperative Nurse Educators, where students learned how to scrub in for surgery.
In the afternoon, participants practiced intubation and ultrasound techniques, including viewing the heart, kidneys, and veins. They were also invited to use ultrasound machines to locate their own veins. In the Anatomy Lab, students were able to safely observe and touch real organs, compare healthy and diseased lungs, and gain a deeper understanding of human anatomy.
“It was a pleasure to be part of this event and spend time with the children,” reflected Dr. Nouran Sinada. “Sharing what I do as a doctor and giving them a glimpse into the world of medicine was incredibly rewarding. It’s always special to inspire young minds and spark their interest in how we help people through science.”
The event concluded with gift bags containing portable CPR kits with valve masks, stethoscopes, pens, and notepads. The Department of Anesthesiology extends its gratitude to the Graduate Medical Education Office for its support and funding and to the City of Promise volunteers who drove and chaperoned the students. Special shoutouts to our volunteers who made the event a success:
- Tad Abbey, Graduate Medical Education Office
- Ranithra Chelliah, Graduate Medical Education Office
- Analise Dilorio, MD, PGY-1
- Paul Gallo, MD, Department of Anesthesiology
- John Hepner, MD, PGY-1
- Lance Lagerstrom, CRNA
- Mildred “Cookie” Leonardi, Perioperative Services
- Ruth McMullan, MSN, RN, Perioperative Services
- Khaing Nwe Phoo, MHA, Department of Anesthesiology
- Hanna Potter, BSN, RN, CNOR
- Roxanne Riggins
- Josh Roach, MD, Department of Anesthesiology
- Ansley Scott, MD, PGY-4
- Nouran Sinada, MB, BCh, BAO, PGY-2
- Sigal Tavel, MD, PGY-2
- Rohan Walsh, Perioperative Services
