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What began as two Langley High School sophomores testing an idea outside a Northern Virginia grocery store has grown into a thriving medical club with 30 regular members and $5,000 raised.

Milan Le and Eesha Kaushik launched the Medicine and Disease Club in 2023 after noticing that their school offered few opportunities specifically for students considering medical careers.

At their first fundraiser, the longtime friends stood outside the grocery store for hours with flyers and a trifold display, uncertain whether shoppers would stop. One man spent nearly 30 minutes learning about their goals before congratulating them and donating $100.

The contribution gave the students an early sign that their work could gain community support.

Now seniors, Le and Kaushik lead weekly meetings where members study diseases and medical conditions, prepare for competitions and learn from guest speakers. Psychiatrists and an internal medicine doctor are among the professionals who have discussed their work with the group.

The club uses the U.S. Medicine and Disease Olympiad as a framework for its lessons and competitions. Leaders also organize hands-on activities, including a CPR session using pillows and stuffed animals.

During another lesson, students learned how to measure blood pressure. For many participants, Le said, it was their first time using a stethoscope—a practical experience that made a future in medicine feel more tangible.

Le and Kaushik initially pictured a club where students could study and earn community-service hours. It has since developed into a close-knit group where older students mentor younger members.

Kaushik said many academic clubs emphasize individual preparation, while service organizations may meet only occasionally and focus largely on accumulating volunteer hours. The Medicine and Disease Club sought to combine learning, service and a stronger sense of community.

That connection has become strong enough that members are disappointed when meetings are canceled. One student even created handmade bookmarks and stickers featuring the club’s logo for members to distribute during fundraisers.

Kaushik said the students’ enthusiasm and passion have helped transform the original idea into a lasting community at Langley.