Wisconsin Express is an opportunity for college students studying health professions to spend a weeklong immersion in one of Wisconsin's diverse communities, learning about health care resources and the challenges faced by a local and regional, urban or rural population.

The week begins with an interactive workshop focusing on cultural effectiveness and interprofessional health care teamwork. This serves as an introduction to the community experience. During the following 3 - 4 days, in groups of 6 - 12, multidisciplinary student teams live in and explore the ethnic and cultural diversity within a community.  

Some of the experiences of this year's students included serving a meal at the Gathering (pictured above), talking with Hmong elders at the Milwaukee Christian Center, getting a tour of Growing Power, an urban organic farm, and visiting Walker's Point Community Clinic, among others.  To conclude the week, participants gather for a wrap-up session to reflect on and evaluate the experience.

“WI Express has opened my eyes to the things I knew existed, but did not want to see. I feel like I made a difference this week because of who I am and what I stand for. Culture does not have to be a shock-it can be-embraced-even if it is not understood.”

- A medical student and participant in the 2011 Wisconsin Express program

“I will take this into the future with me, that is-each person is a person, no matter what their circumstances are and deserve to be treated with the same love and compassion as any other person. Out of this love and compassion will the health of individuals be improved and meaningful relationships built.”

- A medical student and participant in the 2011 Wisconsin Express program