July 16, 2026
The University of Missouri School of Medicine recently hosted current Missouri high school juniors on campus for its annual Mini Medical School event. For more than 25 years, students from across the state interested in learning more about healthcare participate in a week-long session led by School of Medicine faculty, staff and medical students
Following Mizzou’s patient-based learning curriculum, Mini Medical School campers are offered hands-on experiences in the Shelden Clinical Simulation Center. Attendees also broadened their knowledge through interactive lectures and tours across MU Health Care’s facilities
Since the event’s inception, more than 1,000 high school students have trekked to Mizzou’s campus and participated in the interactive event. One of this year’s Mini Medical School campers, Lily Bertarelli, concluded her week at the Mizzou School of Medicine with a clearer outlook on her future healthcare career
“My experience was very eye-opening and informative, having the ability to learn a lot of new things and hearing further expertise on some topics I’ve previously been taught,” said Lily. “Personally, I’m interested in the field of cardiology, and I was fortunate to have the opportunity to speak to an active specialist.”
Lily’s older sister, Isabella Bertarelli, is currently a third-year medical student at the Mizzou School of Medicine. A year ago, Isabella served as a counselor at Mini Medical School, culminating in a meaningful and rewarding experience
“As a first-generation student, I deeply value mentorship and having the opportunity to support the campers, answer their questions and encourage them as they explored their next steps in their healthcare journeys was especially fulfilling,” said Isabella. “It can be difficult to access meaningful healthcare experiences at a young age and Mizzou Mini Medical School helps open that door.”
For Lily, hearing about her sister’s experience as a counselor at Mini Medical School was the final push she needed to ultimately attend this year’s edition of the event
“I remember Isabella came home after last year’s Mini Medical School and told me I’d love it,” said Lily. “Even though we’re seven years apart, my sister and I are like twins so I really trust her judgement. Attending this year’s Mini Medical School opened the door for medical school in the future for me. Once I enter college, I plan on entering the pre-med track and studying cardiology.”
2026 Mizzou Mini Med School Photo Gallery
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