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Meet our Students! We are excited to highlight the stories of some of our PEEP participants across the nation who are striving to attend graduate and health professional programs. This 2022 Cohort consisted of 42 participants scattered across the nations. Please get to know our future scientists, educators, and health providers by hearing their stories and learning from their advice below! Anna Career: Medicine I am majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in Dietetics, Food, and Nutrition at Lehman College. Recently I graduated from LaGuardia Community College with an associate degree in Biology in June of 2021. My professional goal is to have a career in a healthcare environment because healthcare is a human right. I am passionate about increasing access to healthcare for marginalized communities. In addition to my educational background, I fluently speak Greek, Albanian, and English. Carla Career: Public Health Clementine Career: Medicine Clementine is a sophomore student from Bryn Mawr College. Daniela V. Career:Public Policy Daniela is a Venezuela native, DACAmented, feminist, student, and public advocate for her community in the state of NJ. She is currently working with the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as an office manager connecting statewide Hispanic businesses in New Jersey. She assists with different functions of the Chamber and helps develop strong relationships with various businesses and other community sources to support the Chamber's expansion and development. In addition, she is currently working as the Director of UndocuJersey, which is an organization created to provide educational resources to undocumented and documented students with undocumented parents yearning to pursue higher education. As Director, she works with the rest of her team to create partnerships with high schools, school districts, institutions of higher education, and other New Jersey-based organizations. They have hosted numerous college fairs and professional development workshops and facilitated or presented at conferences. Not only that, she was recently an intern for Councilman James Solomon in Jersey City, in which she worked closely with local policy and campaign work during the 2020 election. In 2016, she earned two associate degrees from Rowan College at Burlington County, one in Engineering and one in Business Administration. She is finishing her bachelor's as a student at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, majoring in Public Policy and a minor in Women and Gender Studies, both from Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Delmy Career: Medicine/PhD My name is Delmy. I was born in Morazan, El Salvador, and I entered the US as a baby in my mother's arms. Being in the US provided various opportunities for my family and opened many doors for me. I received the first high school diploma in my family and am currently a senior in the Bioscience program at Farmingdale State College. My goal is to become an internal medicine physician who also researches preventive medicine. I also want to be able to help anyone I can with any struggles they face in being able to get a higher education. Diana S. Z. Career: Physician Assistant My name is Diana S. Z. I was born in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, to two Peruvian parents. I moved to Peru when I was three and later came to the US after an economic crisis struck our country. I have grown up in a small town in South Jersey. I was able to become DACA the year before going into college. In college, I majored in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology with a minor in Jewish Studies. I was fortunate enough to receive many scholarships for my hard work. I graduated in 2020 with hopes to matriculate into Medical school. However, after further analysis, I decided medical school was not right for me. I aspire to be a physician assistant while working as a nursing aide on a cardiology floor in my local hospital. I hope to be able to apply in 2022. Diana F. Career: Medicine, PhD My name is Diana F. I was born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. I immigrated to the United States at three and grew up in San Jose, California. I’m a third-year undergraduate student at the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in Molecular Cell Biology and a minor in Nutritional Sciences. My pre-health career of interest is medicine, and I hope to become a doctor with a specialty in pediatrics, or I’m open to exploring other specialty fields. By pursuing my career, I hope to increase Latino representation in the medical field and be a source of medical assistance for those seeking care. Often undocumented immigrants or those from low socioeconomic backgrounds receive unfair healthcare treatment, inspiring me to one day be a doctor who helps the community. I enjoy trying different coffee shops, going to the beach, exercising, and spending time with my friends and family during my free time. Edy Career: Medicine Biology and Sociology Major at Providence. Interested in advancing diversity and cultural competency in the medical field. Exel Career: Medicine Flavia Career: Medicine I am a Peruvian-born, American-raised, Hispanic-immigrant woman. Attending university as a first-generation American was a privilege denied to many undocumented community members, so I was adamant about making the most of this opportunity. Admittedly, I continued to grapple with the uncertainty of my status and whether it would hinder my ability to pursue internships and apply for jobs. I graduated from the University of Maryland with a dual degree in (1) Biochemistry and (2) Cell Physiology & Neurobiology. Then, I was offered to complete a two-year M.S. program in Bioinformatics held at the University of Maryland sponsored by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. I was one of two students admitted to this program's inaugural class. I pursued my degrees to silence those who told me I should be afraid, apologetic, and ashamed of my status. But more importantly, these achievements belong to my undocumented community, who I turn to for strength and support at every turn. Flor Career: Medicine, Postbaccalaureate program Hi, my name is Flor. I was born in El Salvador, then moved to Los Angeles, then to Houston and finally came to Richardson for college. I am an undergraduate student at the University of Texas at Dallas. I am majoring in Neuroscience with a Business Administrator minor on the premed track. I aspire to contribute to the health field by bridging the gap between what is known and unknown through research and implementing that knowledge to enhance health for all people as a physician. I like to read, do anything fitness-related, and try new things in my free time. I also go by Flower, the English translation of my name. Francisca Career: Exploring Medicine, Public Health, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Programs My name is Francisca. I'm currently a first-year student at the University of California, Irvine. I'm pursuing a major in biology. I'm passionate about spreading positivity, medicine, cultural awareness, and raising awareness for mental health. I love improving my community and taking action against social injustices. While it is easy to become overwhelmed in the face of societal issues. I always see the world not for what it is but for what it could be. Gabriela Career: Nursing Gabriella Career: Medicine, Postbaccalaureate program My name is Gabriella, and I am originally from Cameroun. Moving to the United States has provided me with numerous possibilities to further my education. I am currently in my last year of undergrad and will graduate in the spring of 2022 with a B.S. in Biology and a Chemistry minor. I enjoy tutoring and mentoring other students of the same background to make education more accessible for all. I hope to gain medical experience to apply to a medical school. I would love to become a physician and specialize in pediatrics. As a physician in the U.S., I hope to go back to the diverse community I grew up in and help eradicate the health disparities that are so prevalent. Giovanny Career: Exploring Medicine, B.S. I'm an undocumented person, trying my hardest to graduate and pursue a career to help save people and advance the scientific industry. Through surgery or scientific/medicinal intervention, I would like to extend and enhance the lives of everyone. Gigi Career: Exploring Medicine, Physician Assistant My name is Gigi, and I immigrated to the US at the age of 1. I have lived in the US for over 21 years, and during that time, I developed a passion for immigration rights. I am currently a DACA recipient and a recent college graduate. Some of my proudest moments have been sharing my story with the New York Times, winning state and national titles in pageantry, and working in the medical field as a therapist for children on the spectrum. Jessica Career: Medicine Hi, my name is Jessica. I was born in Mexico and grew up in Greensboro, NC. I am currently working as a medical scribe at a retina clinic and volunteering as a certified medical interpreter. I graduated from Guilford College with a B.A in Biology and am an aspiring physician. My calling to medicine stems from my desire to be a compassionate provider who raises awareness of preventative medicine and advocates for accessible healthcare, particularly in underserved communities. I love hiking, exploring museums, and being around friends and family in my spare time. Jimena Career: Exploring Medicine, Nursing Jonathan Career: Medicine I am a DACA recipient and have always been passionate about helping others. I studied Environmental Science at UC Santa Barbara, and recently, I have decided to pursue medical school and become a pediatrician. After graduating, I continued to work hard through the ranks in the airline industry and achieved the opportunity to become an operations manager for a global airline. As an operations manager, I connect the world through problem-solving. I enjoy working out, spending time with family, and being a jet setter when I am not working. Juana Careers: Exploring Medicine, Postbaccalaureate program, Dentistry, Engineering My name is Juana, and I was born in Jalisco, Mexico. I migrated to the United States when I was eight years old. In 2018 I earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and a minor in Materials Engineering. Since I graduated, I’ve been fortunate to work in the pharmaceutical industry. My dream is to become a physician and practice in the Inland Empire. I like to ride horses and spend time with my family during my free time. Karen Career: Physician Assistant, Public Health Hello! My name is Karen, I am originally from the beautiful state of Oaxaca, Mexico, but I have lived most of my life in North Carolina. I am a third-year student at Elon University majoring in Public Health and minoring in Biology, Spanish, and Poverty and Social Justice. I aspire to obtain a Master’s in Public Health Studies and Physician Assistant Studies. These degrees will allow me to work in healthcare and provide more culturally appropriate/humble care for Latinx/Hispanic immigrant communities. Overall, I aspire to one day assist immigrant communities by providing quality care at little to no cost! Karla Career: Exploring Medicine, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant My name is Karla, and I'm a junior at George Mason University. I hope to graduate in the spring of 2023 with a bachelor's degree in Biology. I️ want to continue my education by attending a PA program to pursue my dream career of becoming a physician assistant, preferably in general practice or cardiology. Kevin Career: Medicine, Public Health Michael Career: Medicine, PhD, Postbaccalaureate program My name is Michael, and I aspire to serve my community as a physician. I have lived in South Florida since I was five years old after immigrating from Haiti. I completed a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from Florida International University. In my spare time, I love to read and watch basketball. Miriam Career: Medicine, Nursing, Physician Assistant Miryam Career: Medicine, Public Health As a first-generation, low-income Latina immigrant, I have witnessed firsthand how communities like mine have been marginalized and side-lined my entire life. Seeing and experiencing these kinds of injustices make me aware of the shortage of people who look like the community they serve and understand that underserved community. Mughil Career: Medicine My name is Mughil. I was born in India and grew up in Jacksonville, FL. I graduated from the University of Florida with my Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. I am currently working as a research technician in molecular biology and am an aspiring physician. I am passionate about improving healthcare access for underserved and immigrant communities. I love reading comics, trying new foods, and spending time with my family in my free time. Nelly Career: Exploring Medicine My name is Nelly, and I am an undergraduate student at the University of Washington studying biochemistry. I was born in Yucatan, Mexico, but have lived primarily in the United States. I aspire to pursue a career path in clinical research to better understand trends and innovations in biomedicine. I enjoy listening to and writing spoken poetry in my free time, and sometime in the future, I hope to publish my own poetry book! Paloma Career: Medicine Paloma L. is a first-generation student pursuing a Biological Science degree with an emphasis on Molecular Cell Biology at the University of California, Merced. She was born in Mexico and moved to San Pablo when she was six. From a young age, she knew she wanted a medical career, and attending UC Merced has brought her one step closer. She will graduate in Spring 2022 and take two gap years to gain clinical experience before applying to medical school. Her time in the Central Valley exposed her to the health inequities in the region. For example, the doctor shortage. To directly address this issue, she aspires to be a Pediatric Surgeon; her career path will help future generations and improve her community’s health outcomes. She allows her community by volunteering for Golden Valley Health Center and UCSF: Fresno Mobile HeaL to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine. Paola Career: Public Health Paola is a Political Science, International Studies & Latin American Studies student at the University of Utah. At the age of 16, she emigrated to the United States. Since then, he has participated in various state organizations dedicated to education, civil rights, immigration, and community leadership. In 2018, she was named Salt Lake City, Utah Youth of the Year, and awarded by the ACLU national organization. Paola is passionate about history and politics, but she is more interested in international law and public health laws. Paola has participated in research for the College of Law and the Faculty of Anthropology. His most recent publication is based on the survival advantage of men in the Baja California peninsula. She did her internship at the Dream Center at the University of Utah to support first-generation students and students of mixed-status. She is currently doing an internship at Communities United, a non-profit organization that offers health and immigration resources for low-income families. Raquel Career: Public Health I am majoring in Public Health at California State University, Los Angeles. My pronouns are she/her/Ella. I am passionate about community development and addressing urgent societal issues. I am open to new opportunities to learn and grow my skill set and background, especially regarding on-the-ground organizing with various community members. My public health goal is to make people aware of how our resources impact our overall health and well-being. I hope to one day continue to uplift voices and work to find opportunities and resources for my community by advocating for equality in health care. Thao Career: Medicine, B.S Psychology I'm passionate about learning! I put myself in a wide range of fields of study to explore my interests and skills. I'm looking forward to finding learning opportunities through job offers and hands-on internships. My work and volunteer experience have been circulating community work, youth development, entrepreneurship, and healthcare. I believe that being a college student is my prime time because this is where I will learn the most!

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.

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

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

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Institutional Guidance: Undergraduate Students Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. Know Your Educational Resources For students pursuing a professional program, especially in medicine, it is essential to stay on track during their undergraduate years. This document provides resources that students can use at their institutions to help them stay competitive for future applications. Topics include academic renewal, understanding GPAs, and proper course withdrawal. Published in The AIR Professional File “Students Want to Feel Safe, Safety Breeds Inclusivity”: How Universities Implement Data Collection Methods for Undocumented Students Authors: Cynthia N. Carvajal, Felecia Russell, and Yadira Ortiz Inclusivity in data reports for undocumented students can be difficult to achieve. By nature of those students’ status and livelihood, there is contention among academics and practitioners on whether this is a population that should not be formally tracked or identified, for a variety of reasons. Drawing from undocumented critical theory to center the varied experiences of undocumented (current and former) students, this study surveyed the study’s authors and other higher education professionals to identify strategies that also center those most directly impacted. This article details existing strategies that intentionally and safely center undocumented students in replicable and standardized data. You can also down load the article by clicking here. DEI Feature: Advising Meets Institutional Advocacy: Creating Systems of Support for Undocumented Students Author: Yadira Ortiz, Executive Director, Pre-Health Dreamers The percentage of undocumented students in higher education is lower than their U.S. citizen peers and even lower for undocumented students pursuing graduate and professional programs. Advisors and administrators can support the advancement of undocumented students through higher education through self-teaching, advocacy, and coalition building. Advising and working with undocumented students includes understanding immigration and state and federal policies. In addition, advising these students calls for educators to advocate for changes to requirements and processes that block the advancement of students who are undocumented into higher education and the workforce. 2020-2021 Developing an UndocuSupport System: Enrichment Assessment of Campus Support for Undocumented Students “Pre-Health Dreamers' enrichment assessment was created through a collaborative effort of individuals with a background in higher education, research, recruitment, admissions, establishing programming, advocacy and resources for undocumented students. Undocumented students provided their knowledge, experiences and hands-on support to make this project happen.”

Institutional Guidance: Post-Bacc Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. Pursuing Post-Bacc Programs DACA, TPS, non-SSN This post-baccalaureate (post-bac) program guide was produced by Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) to assist you in determining if a post-bac is the right choice for you. Students who wish to improve their Grade Point Average (GPA), have made the decision to change fields, or require extra assistance to bolster their graduate or medical application may find that post-bac programs are beneficial. It is possible to enroll in post-bac programs. However, PHD is aware from personal experience that students without documentation face challenges when enrolling in post-bac programs. Pre-Health Dreamers is available to assist undocumented students at every stage of their journey. This paper will go over strategies for reducing and overcoming typical roadblocks that students have when finishing a post-baccalaureate degree. 2019 Breaking More Barriers Report DACA, TPS, non-SSN “Specifically, the survey elucidates the demographics of undocumented students pursuing health and health-science careers, describes the barriers they face within educational settings (e.g. access to pre-health advisors and career advising, financial aid challenges, and peer support networks), provides insights to their lived experiences (e.g. key challenges they have faced due to their immigration status), and describes their career aspirations (e.g. which degree programs they are pursuing and if they wish to practice in underserved areas). The survey was designed to build on previous initiatives and be a collaborative project with continued input and guidance from PHD staff.” 2022 Guidance for Postbaccalaureate Programs on Considering Applicants with Undocumented Status DACA, TPS, non-SSN This document guides postbaccalaureate programs on considering undocumented applicants with temporary benefits or protections while in the United States and applicants without a Social Security Number (SSN). These temporary protections include Temporary Protective Status (TPS) or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). We want to encourage programs to strengthen the holistic support provided to undocumented students pursuing postbaccalaureate programs at their institutions.

Financial Resources National Financial Aid Resources Smart Money Moves, Navigating Financial Aid Securing financial aid for undocumented students during their undergraduate journey can be a challenging task. This document provides an overview for students on how their GPA can impact their financial aid and raises awareness about institutional aid and support. Learn More Financial Strategies Guide to Undocumented Students Provides actionable steps to navigate financial aid, including identifying on-campus resources, applying for scholarships, institutional loans, and funding opportunities. It also highlights strategies for negotiating financial aid, private loan options, and repayment programs tailored for undocumented students pursuing higher education. Learn More Financial Strategies: 101 for Professional Programs Provides actionable steps to identify funding opportunities, collaborate with institutions for financial aid access, and establish partnerships with private funders and credit unions. It also includes strategies for institutional fundraising, expanding aid, and navigating tuition residency and private loan options tailored to the unique needs of undocumented students. Learn More 2024 Scholarship List Scholarships open for students regardless of immigration status. Includes opportunities for high school seniors, undergraduate (community college and 4-year university) and students in graduate/professional programs. Dreamers Graduate Loan Program As you may be aware, Dreamers are currently ineligible for Federal loan programs due to their immigration status, and many Dreamers are discouraged from attending graduate schools due to the lack of sustainable financing options available. The loan program is being managed by a national non-profit organization, Social Finance , in partnership with Funding U , as the loan originator, and Launch Servicing , as the loan servicer. This private loan program offers Dreamers loans at a similar annual percentage rate to that of the federal Grad Plus loan program without any cosigner or minimum credit score required.* Learn More *Please be aware that the terms and eligibility criteria for this loan program are subject to change without notice. Funding is limited and subject to availability at the time of application. Availability of funds is not guaranteed. Self Help Financial Loan Self-Help Federal Credit Union is pleased to offer financing for medical students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status attending certain qualifying universities. Students will be approved for a line of credit to cover the total cost of attendance for medical school with rates and fees based on the Federal Direct Grad PLUS loan. Learn More Pre-Health Internship List Internships open for students regardless of immigration status. Includes opportunities for high school seniors, undergraduate (community college and 4-year university) and students in graduate/professional programs. NILC Map: State Laws & Policies on Access to Higher Education for Immigrants “Provides current state laws and policies on access to higher education for immigrants.” State Financial Aid Resources: - California Dream Act California Dream Act - New York State Dream Act New York State Dream Act - Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) - New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application - Washington Application For Financial Aid Washington Application for Financial Aid - Colorado College Opportunity Fund Colorado College Opportunity Fund

Changing the Game Pre-Health Dreamers is the first undocumented student-born organization to push for changes in admission policies at health-related professional programs denying students due to their status. 01 National Community Coalition (NCC) Pre-Health Dreamers’ National Community Coalition (NCC) seeks to address barriers and empower institutions that seek to better assist and work with the undocumented community. Through a year-long training, support, and collaboration with the members that serve in these institutions, we will enrich the spaces they provide for the most historically excluded communities. We are excited to have signed on our first member schools: SUNY Upstate Medical University and California University of Science and Medicine. 02 Advancing Public Health Through Law and Policy PHD changed admission policies at nursing programs and other health-related programs denying students due to their status. 03 PEEP: Peer Engagement and Enrichment Program PEEP fosters opportunities for undocumented individuals to become leaders in their professional programs, healthcare, and research through workshops, training, guest speakers, and peer mentorship. After completing PEEP, alums will continue to be offered leadership opportunities to train undocumented individuals to advocate for equitable higher education and professional program access. 04 Changes in admission policies for health professional programs PHD works to inform educators and program decision-makers about California laws and policies that advance undocumented students in pursuing health-related programs and careers. We invite you to join our efforts to create welcoming admission requirements and spaces for undocumented students pursuing health-related professional programs at your campus.

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?

Institutional Guidance: Nursing Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. 2025 Q&A: Undocumented Nursing Students in California DACA, TPS, or no SSN Undocumented students can pursue nursing regardless of their status. Even more, in California, legislation prevents higher education institutions, including nursing programs, from denying admission to students based solely on their immigration status. Although nursing programs cannot deny admission based on immigration status, undocumented students may face challenges in completing clinical requirements if they lack an SSN. This brief provides an overview of undocumented students' challenges when pursuing nursing programs and provides solutions that nursing programs and clinical sites can implement. This document focuses on California policies, Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) encourage individuals from other states to use it as a foundation for research and advocacy within their regions. Undocumented Students Pursuing Nursing: What is an ITIN? DACA, TPS, or no SSN Undocumented students often face significant barriers when applying to or completing nursing programs. Misconceptions about their ability to pass a background check, complete clinical experience, and obtain professional licensure, especially if they do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), can be particularly challenging. For many scenarios, an Individualized Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) serves as a key solution, helping to fulfill or complete some of the requirements that undocumented students may struggle with due to the lack of a Social Security Number (SSN). This document guides nursing programs in supporting undocumented students in obtaining and utilizing ITINs effectively to complete their nursing programs and receive their professional licensure. Support Letter to Directors of Clinical Programs DACA, TPS, or no SSN PHD wants to ensure that hospital and clinical site decision-makers understand the California laws and policies that have been put in place to aid undocumented students in pursuing health-related careers, specifically nursing. To support the PHD community, we ask all nursing programs and clinical sites in CA to create welcoming admission requirements and processes for undocumented students. Pursuing Nursing: Q&A for Undocumented Students in California DACA, TPS, or no SSN “PHD designed this document to answer general questions for students pursuing nursing degrees in California who are undocumented (without SSN) or under DACA or TPS immigration status. The text provides information regarding California legislation that supports the advancement of undocumented individuals into medical programs, such as nursing. The Q&A also includes general information about background checks without a social security number, obtaining clinical experience without a social security number, and obtaining professional licenses as an undocumented individual with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).” Letter to Directors of Nursing Programs in Support of Undocumented Students DACA, TPS, or no SSN We address the mounting concerns towards institutional leaders in support of the PHD community and educators throughout the state. We cordially welcome all California nursing programs to join us in our efforts to establish friendly admission standards and areas for undocumented students enrolled in nursing programs on their campus. Health Career Pathway Chart for Pre-Health Students in California DACA, TPS, or no SSN “The information below is based on the most updated research done by Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD). Please note that this information is subject to change. We recommend that you use this document as a starting point to begin your journey in researching professional programs. This document was created to help support individuals who have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protective Status (TPS), or who do not have a Social Security Number (SSN).”

Institutional Guidance: Licensure Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. Professional and Occupational Licensing for Undocumented Students DACA, TPS, non-SSN Th is document details which states provide licensure to rising undocumented health professionals. Both, individuals with and without an SSN are discussed.

BIG THINGS HAVE DETERMINED BEGINNINGS... Informally co-founded in 2012 by three undocumented youth in the San Francisco Bay Area, Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) flourished out of the need for comprehensive support to pursue higher education at the graduate and professional levels. Today, PHD serves at the national level. Mission Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) promotes a culture of inclusion in higher education and healthcare by working with institutions to establish equitable holistic support and processes for undocumented communities. PHD empowers and equips students to skillfully use their voices to create a meaningful connection with higher education and professional programs. PHD centers and amplifies the voices of undocumented and immigrant students who contribute significantly to their communities yet face inequitable access to higher education, healthcare careers, and economic mobility. Through its programming, PHD supports academic and professional development while cultivating leaders prepared to advance equity and transform the systems they enter.. Vision PHD believes that immigration status should not exclude anyone from pursuing their dreams of higher education, careers, and contributing to their communities. PHD envisions a healthcare system that is accessible and welcoming to all regardless of their immigration status. PHD’s programs encourage equitable access, educational opportunities, and resources for traditionally underrepresented communities. We believe that by providing a continuity of support and training for undocumented pre-health students and health professionals, we will positively impact the health care services that undocumented communities receive. Our team provides: Student advising and advocacy support through our Pathways program. National peer-support network and resources Institutional advocacy in higher education and health care through our UndocuEdu program Community training on health care access for the undocumented and immigrant community A platform that elevates immigrant-friendly policy and legislation. Our interdepartmental collaborations address barriers and challenges from distinctive angles and at different levels. PHD adapts to the unique adversities that arise for individuals with complex immigration circumstances to best serve our diverse immigrant population.