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2026 Pre-Health Dreamers' Annual Conference Prices Location $15 Student $50 Educators / Staff Date August 27, 2026 (9:00 am - 3:00 pm/pst) Share University of California, Irvine This year, PHD’s annual conference will be held in-person. The conference will focus on raising awareness about access to health-related programs and careers for immigrant communities, especially individuals without status. The conference will introduce participants to advocacy and engage them in conversations about equitable policies that support our communities. PHD expects more than 200 community members to attend. PHD will list you as sponsors during our annual conference. Please click on the sponsor section below to learn more. RSVP Thank you to our conference sponsors. Conference Speakers' Spotlight BECOME A SPONSOR

PEEP Mentor Schedule Check out the events that will make up this year's 2023 PEEP Cohort. Start Now Schedule P PEEP Workshops Optional for Mentors M Mentor Check-Ins O Outward Workshops Mandatory Optional Self-Assigned * Suggested Timeline January 2023 PEEP Intro | Overview Jan 31st 2023 | 7:00 PM EST January 25th, 2023 | 7:00 PM EST March 2023 Mentor Check-In #2 March 15th 2023 - March 29th 2023 Story Sharing: Building your Narrative March 29th 3023 | 7:00 PM EST February 2023 Mentor Check-In #1 Feb 15th 2023 -Feb 22nd 2023 The Big 5: What do you need to get into your school of choice? February 23rd, 2023 | 7:000 PM EST April 2023 Mentor Check-In #3 April 15th 2023 - April 26th 2023 Advocacy Training April 26th 2023 | 7:00 PM EST Heading 3 May 2023 Financial Aid May 18th 2023 | 8:00 PM EST Mentor Check-In #4 May 15th 2023 - May 24th 2023 June 2023 Mentor Check-In #5 April 15th 2023 - April 26th 2023 Training: MOCK Interview June 21st 2023 | 7:00 PM EST Budget & Finances May 24th 2023 | 7:00 PM EST July 2023 3-minute Presentation & Poster Exhibition Heading 3 July 13th 2023 | Los Angeles, California Mentor Calendar

Thao B.A Psychology, MN Chemistry The educational challenges I faced ranged from status limitations to accessibility. As an undocumented student, I often felt disappointed when applying for an internship since many of them required a social security number. Since I don’t have one, I always had to withdraw from such internships. Furthermore, as an undocumented pre-med student, I can’t utilize the advice given to me by professors and upper classmates—who are documented and can go through a traditional pathway to internship and opportunities. Fortunately, since being a program participant of Pre-Health Dreamers, I don’t withdraw myself from internships anymore. Instead, I push myself to question the organization about its eligibility and requirements. I also find myself more confident in achieving my dream and seeing the reality of my goal being carved. Nashelit B.S Biology, MN Psychology and Health Human Humanities At Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD), I found a community of friends and supporters. Nowhere else have I been able to speak of my status without fear, and nowhere else have I received the same level of acceptance and encouragement. Coming from a campus with scarce resources for the undocumented community, I often felt alone and disoriented on how to navigate entering dental school, especially since I lacked the safe space to speak of my status. PHD pushed me to believe in my voice and continue finding opportunities. Thanks to them I built my understanding of pursuing dentistry, expanded my network, worked on my first research project, presented at my first conference, attained a friend that I hope will last me a lifetime, and am finding new opportunities through their dental group. I am extremely grateful for Yadi, Angeles, and my friend Andrea. I couldn't envision my college journey without them and PHD. I'm happy I applied to PHD's PEEP program and grateful to have been accepted. Alexis M.S. Biology The status of "undocumented" didn’t register in my head until I started asking my parents if I could start working. The realization of the obstacles that came with this status came during my college applications while I was in high school. After seeing this, it felt like my world had become a lot smaller. It felt like I was in a tiny room, and my friends were able to move around freely outside this room, and suddenly I realized how alone I was. As ironic as it sounds, New York City, as diverse as it is, did not have many resources or safe spaces catering to undocumented or DACAmented students. Although this has started to change in recent years, the knowledge and experiences that I gained from being introduced to PHDreamers and participating in the PEEP program can only be considered priceless and life-changing. Through their support and connections, I will be pursuing my master’s degree in biology. PHDreamers is more than just a provider of resources to people with different statuses, though. Yes, the plethora of resources can only be seen as a benefit, but through this program, they also helped me find something that I never truly found during my whole academic journey: a stable support system that didn’t just empathize with my struggles but also went through the same hurdles as I did—a community. There are no words to describe the release of pressure from being able to share my stories and hearing everyone share theirs without fearing backlash or judgment. The passion that the mentors and staff of PHDreamers showed during the program and conference to help people with similar statuses inspired my colleague and me to take on the project of creating a branch in NYC to allow others from my city to experience the same things I have. I hope to become a pivot for my future and that of my fellow PEEPs. Basraj B.S Human Biology Basraj is currently a junior majoring in Human Biology. She is proud to be a 2024 PEEP scholar and is grateful for the support she has received. She openly shares that her first two years of college were challenging, but being part of the PEEP program has been a game-changer. With the guidance and support she has received, her GPA has significantly improved, and she is thrilled about the progress she has made. "I am a junior in college. My first two years of college were not the best, but after I joined PEEP, I am getting support and guidance, and my GPA is looking great. I am very excited about this because I have struggled to get it up. With some tips from PEEP, I could speak to my professors about my concerns." Karen B.S Public Health Pre-Health Dreamers has inspired me to pursue various routes of healthcare, including Public Health and Physician Assistant Studies. Through this organization, I was able to meet various individuals who, despite barriers set in place, have defied all odds by going above and beyond in their professional lives. Prior to finding PHDreamers, I knew very few individuals who understood the challenges of our prospective status. Now, I have a large community of people who I can and do reach out to for assistance and support. What PHDreamers has done for me is provide me with the necessary financial, professional, and personal information needed to one day achieve my aspirations of providing quality care for immigrant communities and assisting marginalized birthing people through the maternal and child health sector of Public Health. Truthfully, I was reassured that there are no limitations to my professional desires and that I am capable of achieving all my propositions regardless of immigration status– and as an undocumented latina woman, that means the world. Gabriela B.S. Biology and Psychology As a first-generation college graduate and DACA recipient, I encountered a significant deficit in resources and institutional support while striving to attain a college degree, particularly in my pursuit of a career in medicine. New York City is a renowned city for its incredible diversity and one of the largest immigrant populations, yet it remains one of the areas with the least amount of resources available to Undocu/DACA students. Throughout my time in college, I had limited access to scholarships and was ineligible for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, making the cost of my college education a constant concern. Moreover, navigating the difficult process of medical school applications was made more challenging due to the lack of appropriate guidance from pre-med advisors, who did not have the knowledge necessary to help students with their immigration status. Obtaining clinical and research experience typically required by medical schools presented another obstacle, primarily due to its scarcity and inaccessibility due to legal and institutional restrictions. Although with time I became better at finding my own resources, the constant discouragement and lack of mentorship in medicine were emotionally daunting and oftentimes made a career in medicine feel unattainable. It was only after graduating college, when I luckily encountered the Pre-Health Dreamers PEEP program, that I finally found a path that made a career in medicine feel achievable. This amazing program not only fueled my passion for medicine once again, but it also provided invaluable guidance, equipping me with essential tools and resources to advocate for myself and to become a more competitive applicant for the upcoming application cycle. Most importantly, I found a safe space and an amazing community of people who became like my family. This sense of finally feeling like I belonged somewhere was invaluable, and through sharing that feeling alone, my fellow PEEP colleague and I had the idea to expand PHD to NYC. PHD is making this possible for us, and through their connections, we are now forming a possible partnership with CUNY. Through this PHD-NYC extension program, we want students like us to feel a sense of empowerment, safety, and community. Together, we will change the statistics and make the immigrant community healthier. Chantal B.S Biology Chantal earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and is currently a 2024 PEEP scholar. She has embarked on the path of studying for the MCAT and has embraced the opportunity to connect with mentors and peers in the medical field. Through PEEP, she gained valuable insights into applying to medical schools and has been inspired to become a more competitive applicant. "...[with PEEP] I started studying for the MCAT and connected with many mentors and other students currently in medical school! I learned how to connect with medical schools via email and understood what I needed to do to become a more competitive applicant for medical school!"

PEEP Outward Events Check out the workshops that will make up this year's 2023 PEEP Cohort. In order to attend one of these events, please RSVP in advance. Limited seating capacity and acceptance will be met on a rolling basis. Learn More RSVP January 2023 Health Careers 101 Jan 31st 2023 | 8:00 PM EST RSVP February 2023 Advocacy Training Feb 8th 2023 | 8:00 PM EST January 25th, 2023 | 7:00 PM EST RSVP March 2023 Competitive Applications : CV Builder Workshop Feb 8th 2023 | 8:00 PM EST RSVP Heading 3 May 2023 Financial Aid May 18th 2023 | 8:00 PM EST RSVP June 2023 Community Self Advocacy June 5 2023 | 8:00 PM EST RSVP

Home See our upcoming events Stay informed about our latest webinars, training sessions, and events designed to support educators and undocumented students pursuing healthcare careers! Learn More Thank you to UndocuScholarsLLC. for supporting Pre-Health Dreamers through the Padrino/Madrina Sponsorship Program. UNDOCU SCHOLARS LLC We are undocumented anthropologists who design and facilitate campus-specific professional development workshops that advance the mission of Dream Resource Liaisons in alignment with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) Vision 2030 . Learn More Paving the way for DACA recipients in health care What Higher Education Institutions Can Do to Remove Barriers for Undocumented Medical Students PHD 2026 In-Person Conference, UC Irvine Stats Pre-Health Dreamers conducts over 20 trainings for more than 500 community members every year. A word from our students... "PHDreamers connected me to other peers who helped me navigate the process of securing loans for higher education." -Jessica, M.D. refs Join the mission. Become a member sign up CONNECT WITH US LINKEDIN FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM TWITTER YOUTUBE connectwith us

Undocumented students may be discouraged from pursuing their educational and professional ambitions if they face obstacles when pursuing health-related degrees. These tools can help you research as you begin the admissions process and seek assistance at your campus and professional program. For more resources, join our community and become active participants. Learn more Resources. Resources Educational Aid For our students and educators Obstacles while pursuing health-related programs can deter undocumented students from pursuing their educational and professional goals. These resources will support your research as you start your admission process and seek support at your campus. Health Care Access For everyone Find health access resources and updates for the undocumented and immigrant community. Learn about Medi-Cal access and find free clinics around your area. Remind politicians that healthcare is a human right! Financial Aid For our students and educators Learn about the financial opportunities such as scholarships, grants, and other funding resources that can be given to undocu-students.

This bootcamp offered in the spring allows one to open their own business to work in the healthcare career of their choosing. Undocu LaunchPad Application Deadline Location Applications open again Spring 2025 Virtual Year 2025 Share Launching a business may be challenging, thrilling, and fulfilling., especially for a student or individual who plans to be a health professional. You know you want to get that degree and that career in health care, but the process may become overwhelming if you don't have a clear idea of where it can go, how to construct it, and how to keep it going. But we are here to help you brainstorm! Returning Student Login IMAGINE Start brainstorming what services your business will offer in the health industry. IDENTIFY Learn what paperwork you need to establish your business. STRATEGIZE Discover how to engage clients and partners with customized marketing. LAUNCH Launch your company and start creating partnerships and providing services. How can you advance your dream into reality? Knowledge and skills you will gain from UndocuLaunch Pad. Transferable Skills What abilities, expertise, or other assets can you offer? You may have picked up a skill while doing odd jobs without realizing it. Discover skillsets that are valuable for your own healthcare-related business. Federal & State Laws Some laws protect the rights of undocumented entrepreneurs across several states of the United States. Plan a Budget Consider integrating both your personal and corporate goals when creating a budget. Will you lease an office space? Will you be working from home? Marketing & Promotions Create your first business flyer and logo. Learn how to promote your services for a specific client or community. Vision and Mission What is your vision for your company? How do you plan to serve your community? Answering these questions will assist you in developing your company's vision and goal. Permits & Insurance Understand the regulations and licenses needed to legitimize your business.

Educators UndocuEDU Become one of our educational institutional members LaunchPad: Educator's Edition A 6-week boot camp that prepares educators to support undocumented students—even those without SSNs—in building healthcare careers through entrepreneurship. Request a presentation Do you want us to present a topic at your school?

2023 PEEP Innovation Challenge See the winners for last years 2023 PEEP Innovation Challenge Read More Carolina Cortez Marure, Alexis Perez, Abdullah Bajwah Help seeking behaviors in the Latinx community for those suffering with mental illness The underrepresentation of cultural minorities in mental health careers, combined with the stigmatization surrounding mental health, deters members of the latinx community from pursuing vital mental health treatment. Read Tech Lead Ashley Jones This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button Office Manager Tess Brown This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button Product Manager Lisa Rose This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button HR Lead Kevin Nye This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button Customer Support Lead Alex Young This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button QA Specialist Andrew Cole This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button Content Strategist Debbie Green This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button Product Manager Alissa Rose This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Button Apply Today This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content. info@mysite.com 123-456-7890

Pre Health Dreamers Peep Engagement Enrichment (PEEP) Cohort 2022-2023 Peer Engagement Enrichment Program Application Deadline Location New Application Cycle starts this Fall! Virtual Year 2023-2024 Share PHD's Peer Engagement and Enrichment Program (PEEP) is a graduate pipeline program for undocumented students pursuing health professions. The program's design supports students with complex immigration statuses such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Temporary Protective Status. Participants pursue health-related programs such as medical school, physical therapy, nursing, etc. Each profession has barriers: background checks, restrictive admission requirements, and inequitable support in schools. PEEP shapes and trains competitive applicants to break barriers that undocumented students face. Our program focuses on empowerment, self-advocacy, story sharing, and professional skills. P E E P Innovation Challenge 2024 “If you look at history, innovation does not come just from giving people incentives; it comes from creating environments where their ideas can connect,” says Steven Johnson, a popular American science author. Traditionally, the responsibility of coming up with innovative products, services, and business models was assigned only to a handful of people within institutions. Pre-existing institutions have not provided a reliable concept for undocumented youth to pursue their education or choose eligible healthcare. Here at PhDreamers, we are trying to motivate students to tackle these issues first hand. We will strive to tackle issues they have faced by working in diverse teams and developing and building solutions. This year, PhDreamer's Peer Engagement and Enrichment Program will provide a research component to our students by using the program as a platform for students to build and develop a solution to an existing pressing issue amongst immigrant communities. We are currently working on our PEEP Cohort for this upcoming academic year. Coming Soon Student Apply today to be a part of the 2023 PEEP Scholar Program. Learn more Mentor Share your knowledge and experience with PEEP scholars as they break down problems and transform ideas into solutions. Learn more

We are excited to share that Pre-Health Dreamers' 5th Annual Conference will be held in-person on August 27, 2026 at UC Irvine . RSVP 18 states represented at our conferences Thank you to our sponsors for believing in our mission! Coming soon. Agenda, workshop and speaker information, and more! BECOME A SPONSOR LEARN MORE

Media Please learn about PHD's efforts and join our cause Program Updates April 2025 Read Now! Paving the way for DACA recipients in health care No longer afraid: an undocumented immigrant's experience in American health care Denisse Rojas Marquez's Testimony to Senate Judiciary Hearing See our Founder's New Latthivongskorn TED Talk Medical School 'Dreamers' Face Uncertainty With Trump Check our conversation with Juarez Consulting regarding career directions in immigrant populations May 2023 Newletter Yadira Ortiz, PHDreamer's Director interview with Gente Unidas's podcast "Magnificent Mujer" Pre-Health Dreamers' Response to Supreme Court DACA Decision Striking down DACA would eliminate thousands of health care workers, thwarting America’s pandemic response DACA health workers risk their lives to fight COVID-19 while they await SCOTUS ruling "We are medical workers. It is our duty to protect America from COVID-19" | Opinion Piece Thousands of DACA health care workers fight coronavirus — and worry about their fate

Elevate future health professionals. Tax-deductible donations to Pre-Health Dreamers can be made through our fiscal sponsor, Community Initiatives, a 501(c)(3) public charity. Community Initiatives' Employer Identification Number (EIN) is 94-3255070. Donate

Contact Us! The Team Click on the member you wish to email Join the Listserv Yadira Ortiz Executive Director Speciality: Advocacy Support Institutional Trainings Sponsorship Background check for SSN Other health-related professional programs Angeles Almaraz Program Coordinator Pathways Student Network questions Join PHDreamers Maria Navarro Program Coordinator Nursing Connect Program Student and network questions Social Media

Overview Program Details Checkout our 2023 PEEP Innovation Challenge Projects Over the last couple of months, our student's worked hard to tackle some of the most challenging issues within the immigrant and health care systems. View our three favorite winning projects from the top submissions. 1/7 Problem Pitching Jan - Feb During the dates of January 25th - February 15th, teams will meet at least once to discuss possible problems that they would want their group to tackle. Problems can stem from any three branches: 1) educational challenges for immigrant youth, 2) healthcare discrepancies for immigrant communities, 3) any other immigrant issues you faced as an undocumented student. Inspiration for problem can stem from personal experiences faced as an undocumented student. Brainstorming Feb - March Teams will enter the "Brainstorming" phase after a problem has been identified that has to be resolved. During this time, teams will gather to create and construct solutions. In order to create and construct solutions, may use pre-existing models presented by academic literature and provide their own twist. Poster Exhibition July 13th Los Angeles, California Teams will be presenting their projects via their posters at the annual conference for PhDreamers held this year in-person at Los Angeles, California. After the last team has pitched, judges will deliberate, and winners will be announced at the end of the event. Solution: Building your poster March - June After receiving and incorporating mentor comments, teams start composing a poster that summarizes their process for coming up with an inventive solution. On Scholar Teaching Day, poster templates will be made available at the commencement of the program. Posters will include an introduction, an issue explanation, and a solution. PROGRAM TIMELINE