USC Students Bring Hands-On STEM Learning to LuskinOIC

LuskinOIC recently partnered with USC student leaders who serve on the Healthcare Awareness Committee to host our first Build-a-Knee Workshop—a hands-on educational experience designed to spark interest in healthcare, strengthen STEM engagement, and make orthopaedic anatomy approachable and fun.

From Idea to Impact

What began as a student-led concept evolved into an orthopaedic-focused workshop delivered in a meaningful and realistic way at the hospital. The students explored ways to educate and engage our community—especially parents and families who spend significant time in urgent care waiting areas—by offering interactive learning opportunities connected to musculoskeletal health.

Over time, the committee refined its approach, discussing a variety of ideas such as educational posters, short “mini fair” tables, and hands-on stations that teach basic orthopaedic concepts. From this planning came the Build-a-Knee Workshop: a simple, creative activity that uses everyday materials to model the knee joint and introduce key anatomy concepts through hands-on learning.

A Hands-On Anatomy Experience

Participants built knee models using household-style materials like paper towel and toilet paper rolls and rubber bands, turning abstract concepts into something tangible. The activity created opportunities to discuss injuries, ligaments, and movement in an accessible way.

Future sessions may allow students to bring their models back to help educate pediatric patients, supporting children’s understanding of their injuries and care plans while building confidence and communication skills in future healthcare leaders.

Investing in the Future of Healthcare

The Healthcare Awareness Committee’s work reflects a broader goal of creating meaningful, hospital-based experiences that inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals while offering positive engagement for patients and families. The committee also explored other possible interactive stations for future programming, such as cast demonstrations, anatomy exploration through radiographs, PT-inspired movement activities, and additional STEM exposure opportunities for high school students.

Thank You, USC Healthcare Awareness Committee

We are grateful to these USC students for their creativity, organization, and commitment to service. Their leadership helped transform a thoughtful idea into an engaging program that aligns with LuskinOIC’s mission and deepens our connection to students who want to learn, volunteer, and give back. We look forward to continuing this partnership and expanding hands-on learning opportunities that connect STEM, service, and pediatric orthopaedic care.