What if you could step inside the human heart, watch blood surge through its chambers and trace the electrical signals that keep it beating, all without leaving the classroom? Louisville students from Ballard and Atherton High Schools recently had this opportunity during an immersive visit to the UofL School of Medicine (ULSOM), where virtual reality (VR) and hands-on physiology labs brought medicine to life in ways that reflect the evolving future of medical education. 

Through a partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and the ULSOM Office of Community Engagement, students rotated through interactive learning stations designed to reinforce cardiovascular concepts with real-world application. The curriculum blended technology, clinical skills and mentorship that gave students a firsthand look at how modern medicine is driven by exploration, innovation and practical experience.  

In the VR and mixed-reality station, students used VXRLabs to explore a 3D anatomy lab, trace the cardiac cycle and view digital cardiac animations layered over their real environment. Additional stations offered hands-on opportunities to interpret ECG traces and arrhythmias, measure blood pressure and observe heart activity before and after exercise. Later, a “simulated patient rounds” retrieval challenge pushed students to think diagnostically by recalling key anatomy and physiology concepts to mock clinical scenarios. 

These experiences were supported by UofL medical and graduate students who volunteered as station leaders, offering mentorship and answering questions about academic pathways, campus life and what it means to pursue a career in medicine. Students also attended a session hosted by the ULSOM Office of Admissions, learning about the journey to medicine and how early exposure can help clarify career goals. 

“Connecting with our local schools through innovative experiences like virtual reality is about more than just technology; it’s about building pathways. We want students to see themselves in these spaces and know that UofL is here to support their journey into health care,” said Kelli Bullard Dunn, vice dean of community engagement. 

Organizers say the program aims to reinforce high school science learning while opening doors for students who may be considering careers in medicine or health care. ”Our Biomedical Science students thoroughly enjoyed visiting the medical and nursing schools,” shared Ashley Smith, teacher at Ballard High School.“Meeting and talking with students who are in the medical and nursing programs, as well as touring the medical school, gave my students a lot of insight into what their future could look like at UofL. I had several students say that this trip helped them see a future in medicine.” 

By blending immersive technology with hands-on skills and mentorship, the ULSOM is helping students imagine their place in health care’s next chapter. For many, stepping into a virtual heart may be the moment that brings their future into focus.