Inspiring the Next Generation of Health Leaders: Equity Commons at Youth Medical Mentorship Summit

Introducing Empathy Through Immersive Learning Experiences

Equity Commons had the honor of participating in the Youth Medical Mentorship Summer Youth Medical Summit hosted at the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With over 100 students and 40 parents and community advocates in attendance, the event brought together future healthcare professionals, caregivers, educators, and community leaders for a full day of exploration, learning, and inspiration.

As part of the summit’s robust clinical rotations, Equity Commons delivered a signature immersive Virtual Reality (VR) experience designed to deepen empathy and understanding in healthcare. Students entered the shoes of patients — experiencing firsthand the challenges faced by individuals navigating the U.S. healthcare system. From missed diagnoses and access barriers to communication breakdowns and bias, participants saw through the eyes of those whose voices are often unheard.

Using Virtual Reality to Build Empathy in Healthcare

Our VR experience simulates the sensory, emotional, and logistical experiences of patients from a variety of backgrounds. Leveraging the power of VR-enabled sensory immersion, perspective-taking, and body ownership illusions, participants get as close as possible to “walking a mile in someone else’s shoes.” This technology enables learners to feel, not just understand, the systemic barriers to care delivery.

For many students, this was their first exposure to immersive learning technology. The experience left a strong impression and sparked thoughtful discussion about the need for compassion, cultural competence, and structural change in healthcare.

Our goal is not only to raise awareness — but also to empower the next generation to lead with empathy.

Why Representation and Early Exposure Matter

The Youth Medical Mentorship Summit was more than a career fair — it was a pipeline-building initiative grounded in representation. Research shows that early exposure to the medical field, especially through hands-on, experiential learning, is key to building a representative healthcare workforce. By helping students envision themselves as future doctors, nurses, researchers, and healthcare advocates, we are changing what’s possible for historically underrepresented communities.

At Equity Commons, we are committed to making sure students don’t only see what’s broken in the system — they see how they can help fix it.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

We are deeply grateful to the organizers of the Youth Medical Mentorship Summer Youth Medical Summit and to the families and students who made the day so special. It was a joy to contribute to such an energizing and impactful event, and we look forward to continued partnership as we work together to build a healthcare system that works for everyone.

Whether it’s through Virtual Reality, research-driven curricula, or community-centered programming, Equity Commons remains focused on improving health outcomes for all.