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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. 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 has witnessed first-hand the lack of resources available for undocumented students pursuing health-related professional programs, like medicine, dentistry, nursing, research, and more. Even more, PHD participants show us that the barriers from ten years ago still exist today for traditionally underrepresented communities. We are empowered to support the community and strive to change the education and healthcare system for all immigrants. 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 Peer Engagement and Enrichment Program (PEEP) National peer-support network and resources Institutional advocacy in higher education and health care through our National Community Coalition (NCC). Community training on health care access for the undocumented and immigrant community (NCC) 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.

This report details goals met by PHD during its 2024-2025 programming year and future 2025 - 2026 goals. Published July 2025. PHD's 2025 Annual Report Statistics Get to know a little bit more about Pre-Health Dreamers as well as getting more information on our students! Future Goals Pre-Health Dreamer's vision to help our next generation, immigrant students achieve their dreams! From our Scholars See what our students have to say about their life experiences as well as their experiences with PHDreamers! Work from our Students See some of the work around the immigrant and health communities from our students. MotivatingAmerica's Future Leaders. Check out the Leading campus and other organizational events attended by Pre-Health Dreamers actions. Read More

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. Only students with a current profile picture are shown. Please get to know our future scientists, educators, and health providers by hearing their stories and learning from their advice below! Rodrigo Career: Medicine Rodrigo is a DREAMer and a beneficiary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Rodrigo grew up in East Providence, Rhode Island, after coming to the United States with his parents at 10 months of age. They have rallied and organized Dreamers in Rhode Island and Washington D.C. to push for a permanent fix for DACA recipients. As a writer, Rodrigo's commentary on immigration policy is featured in Al Jazeera, The Guardian, and The Providence Journal. Locally, Rodrigo lobbied the General Assembly and the Governor for legislation granting undocumented immigrants driver's licenses. In 2018, the state passed a law ensuring that DACA recipients would be issued driver's licenses regardless of future federal policy. Due to their work on the issue, Rodrigo was asked to introduce Governor Gina Raimondo at the bill signing. Rodrigo will graduate from the University of Rhode Island with a B.A. in Psychology and a B.A. in Data Science. Luis Career: Medicine First-generation Veracruz immigrant Luis Alberto Hernandez Campos, 22, lives in sunny Arizona. Growing up, ancestors and nation were foreign. My parents brought me to the US at one year old to end poverty. They struggled to attain goals and support their growing family without financial aid. They supported the family by working hard instead of going to college. While my father worked in the fields, my mother helped my grandmother sell products at home. US National Scholarship. Financial stress reduction and learning have greatly improved my life. Student Specialist at ASU's DREAMzone for DACA, undocumented, and mixed-status students was my second job. It showed financial issues. Alexis Career: Physician Assistant There were many factors that have influenced my decision to pursue a career in health. Ultimately, the main factor was my interest in STEM from a young age. I was interested in science since the 5th grade and knew that I wanted to continuously expose myself to this general field of study. A dreamer without the documentation. Facing obstacles that I had no control over but, braving them in search of my dreams. I wish to become an asset to my demographic in the medical field to bring ease to patients that call two countries their home. Diana Career: Medicine, Public Health I worked as an emergency room scribe which helped me familiarize myself with medical terminology. Having that past experience has aided me with my current job as a patient care technician. I currently work in a cardiovascular floor where I take care of patients after cardiac procedures such as CABG (coronary artery bypass graft), TAVRs (Transcatheter aortic valve replacement), and cardiac catheterizations. Danira Career: Ph.D I was born and raised in Nigeria until my family decided to relocate to the United States when I was 13. While growing up in Nigeria, an emphasis was placed on education and pursuing “high-ranking” jobs like a doctor, lawyer, or engineer. Consequently, I believed that becoming a doctor was the only way to contribute to building my community’s wellness. However, in Nigeria, I became curious about mental illnesses after hearing my family’s opinion on a case involving suicide. I hope to gain research experience/skill, improved communication skill, knowledge on financial budgeting and interview experience/skill. Ayodeji Career: Ph.D I was born and raised in Nigeria until my family decided to relocate to the United States when I was 13. While growing up in Nigeria, an emphasis was placed on education and pursuing “high-ranking” jobs like a doctor, lawyer, or engineer. My undergraduate experience at Mississippi State University had an enormous impact on focusing my interest to clinical psychology. These research experiences provided me with the tools to identify, analyze and potentially solve problems that need to be adequately addressed in research and clinical work. One of these problems is covered in my current research interests: identifying and working toward bridging the gap of access to mental health care for minority populations. Jissela Career: Medicine I was born in El Salvador in the year 2000 - an impoverished country with poor healthcare infrastructure at the time . During my first two years of life, I experienced breathing difficulties. I visited the hospital multiple times a week for respiratory therapies, providing temporary relief but no doctor could get to the bottom of what was causing the difficulties - all because they didn't have access to the necessary technology. Abdullah Career: Medicine, PhD From pre-K to twelfth grade in Maryland, housing in a 2-bedroom townhouse with six family members, I anticipated economic challenges. My life changed in the fall of 12th grade when I discovered I was a DACA recipient when applying for FAFSA. After preparing for numerous scholarships and chances, I was ready to seek them. I realized that my citizenship status would immediately eliminate my scholarship, internship, and other ambitions. I realized this more in college. I was unable to qualify for most scholarship and research programs due to ineligibility, making it challenging to secure funding for higher study. As a college student on the pre-MD/PhD route, intense competition arises due to limited possibilities and high demand. Sometimes, despite being competent for a position, such as a scholarship, research post, or job, I am not eligible. I participated in the McNair Scholars Program, a research-focused program for low-income and first-generation students, for a year. After the first year, I was supposed to completely enroll in the program to obtain funding for my research. Unfortunately, I was unable to join the program as I did not qualify for federal funding for my research projects. Eugene Career: Medicine Hello! My name is Eugene Kwon. I am a senior at Pomona College, where I major in chemistry. I'm from South Korea and I've lived in the neighborhood of Koreatown in Los Angeles with my mother since we arrived in the United States in 2014. From participating in the PEEP program, I hope to be a part of a community of like-minded immigrants in the US whose shared experiences help build the well-being and success of its members. I especially hope to connect and learn from this community in areas such as learning where to receive resources, networking, self-advocating, and learning to face issues plaguing an underrepresented community. Altogether, I hope to be able to succeed in fulfilling the goals of the cohorts of the program and give back to my communities. Joan Career: Physician Assistant As a young woman who grew up in Africa, with some corrupt and inconsiderate health care system and policy, I see and hear the news of how people who get injured or sick and need immediate care are either neglected or not responded to quickly because of the non- affordability of hospital fees which has resulted into many deaths of innocent individuals. That is why I choose and work towards becoming an Emergency Doctor, to provide immediate care to injured/ill individuals, to change the health care policy in my home country and other places with such policy and to build a legacy for myself. Also, to make a difference in people’s lives. Jim Career: Medicine Hi my name Jim Reynosa. I am college student who dreams of going to medical school. I was born and raised in El Salvador until I was 15 years old and I am currently living in California. I went to high school and as I said before I am currently enrolled at CSUN. My main language is Spanish but I learned English before coming to the US. I hope for the future to be certified doctor and pursue a career in medicine. Kelly Career: Medicine, Postbaccalaureate program What inspires me to pursue a health graduate/professional program is the need for representation of the undocumented community within higher education spaces. As a child, being a doctor was the only career I envisioned myself having. Due to the lack of healthcare access, I wanted to be able to provide the resources to those who were in need. The way healthcare is viewed more as a privilege rather than a right made me more upset. I also wish to create more of a representation within the spaces I enter so that those after me are discouraged to pursue their dreams. Isabel Career: Exploring Medicine, Dentistry, Ph.D, Postbacc Coming to the U.S. in my teens as an undocumented immigrant, and given that I neither knew English or had my parents nearby for support, I felt like I lost my voice. I couldn't express my opinions and thoughts to others, which led me to lose confidence in myself and my abilities. During my second semester of college I decided to take action and overcome this challenge. I set up daily goals, make plans and stick to a schedule diligently. Margarida Career: Medicine, Ph.D, Physician Assistant I always had to help others as much as possible. My mother and grandma always gave food, rides, and emotional support. Growing raised with these principles made me who I am, but I want to reach more people and change lives, especially undocumented ones. My shadowing doctor, Dr. Silka, inspires me. He is an educated, compassionate, and proactive doctor. No matter how long he's been in the hospital or how crowded it is, he's always happy and nice to his patients. His character will inspire me as a doctor, whether I become an ER doctor or not. Along with my interest in human physiology and anatomy, I want to be a doctor. With my undergraduate experiences, I wish to influence patients and bring them to a better health path by delivering ethnically or culturally appropriate patient care. 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. Deicy Career: Exploring Medicine, Physician Assistant 31 year old dreamer from Mexico City. I was brought to the United States at the age of 3 years old. My parent brought my brother and I to the United States for a better future and to become someone in life. Throughout all my struggles I managed to graduate from a Medical Assistant program, my Associates in Science in Public Health, and an Associates in Science in Kinesiology. Now I attend Cal State University San Marcos working on my Bachelor’s in Kinesiology with a concentrate in body movement. Helen Career: Medicine I need to become more familiar with the process. However, I did a Pre-health Scholars Program this past summer at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center and we had a session with the admissions team. During the session, we were presented with the different Medical School programs offered and how competitive they are. As a part of this program, I had the opportunity of shadowing physicians in Internal Medicine, General Pediatrics, and Pediatric Surgery. Elizabeth Career: Ph.D Being the first one to go through the college process in my family, having to figure it out on my own. Finding support was hard, and the struggles that come with being DACA recipient. Career: Ph.D Being the first one to go through the college process in my family, having to figure it out on my own. Finding support was hard, and the struggles that come with being DACA recipient. Career: Ph.D Being the first one to go through the college process in my family, having to figure it out on my own. Finding support was hard, and the struggles that come with being DACA recipient. Rosa Career: Medicine I think that the medical field offers many vital jobs and I would love to be apart of that community. I love helping people and if I could do it through something I am passionate about, it is a double win. Dietetics is a good spot for me because it is affordable, interesting, and relatively short. Karen Career: Medicine Navigating and dealing with my health complications is a stressor that I have encountered in college. While I have a medical condition and am receiving treatment, there are still instances where I get sick and have flare ups. This can mean having my thyroid hormone out of its normal range and therefore having me experience many difficult symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, and weight loss/gain. Sometimes it makes me feel like I do not belong here, however I do not let that limit the goals that I want to achieve. Karen Career: Medicine Navigating and dealing with my health complications is a stressor that I have encountered in college. While I have a medical condition and am receiving treatment, there are still instances where I get sick and have flare ups. This can mean having my thyroid hormone out of its normal range and therefore having me experience many difficult symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, and weight loss/gain. Sometimes it makes me feel like I do not belong here, however I do not let that limit the goals that I want to achieve. Brenda Career: Exploring all Health Fields I am passionate about helping others. I love being at hospitals even when I am personally not feeling well I always found the hospital environment to be a safe and comforting place. This is where I learned to be more curious about job opportunities with patient care. I have also had to be a caregiver to all of my grandparents growing up so I became familiar with all of the medical terms and aftercare. I inspire to one day be able to provide that to others because as I do not have my grandparents with me anymore my drive is to be a part of caring and showing compassion to those who need help during their time of vulnerability. Lastly, as a mother of three I want to hold the example to my children of pursuing and obtaining a career one day that involved going to college or university. Yegi Career: Exploring all Health Fields Hello my name is Yegi Shin. I am currently pursuing Nursing as a major and I like to read self-help books in my spare time. Inspiration-from seeing similar peers and predecessors who have been in my shoes who are now flourishing. Experience-becoming experienced in different college programs and opportunities. Opportunities-to have the chance to excel in what I can do in my status right now. Gabriela Career: Exploring all Health Fields My name is Gabriela, I was born in Lima, Peru and moved to Queens, New York at the age of 6. I graduated from The City college of New York - CUNY with a B.S in Psychology and Biology, and I am currently in my third gap year working as a Research Data Associate at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in the Healthy Brain and Aging department. My aspiration to become a physician stems from first hand exposure to the health disparities and inequities seen within my underserved/ immigrant community. As a future provider I want to provide quality and compassionate bilingual care, educate patients and be an advocate for better access to healthcare in underserved communities. In my free time I enjoy taking yoga classes, hiking, dancing (Peruvian folk and salsa!!), and spending time/traveling with my family. Norma Career: Nursing I have experienced unexpected spending during an automobile accident that totaled my vehicle and injured my body. I was fortunate to be able to finish courses online and have my family for support with transportation and or public transportation.

Institutional Guidance: Dentistry 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. 2022 Guidance for Dentistry Programs DACA, TPS, or non-SSN This brief communication guides dentistry 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 dentistry programs at their institutions.

2024 Pre-Health Dreamers' Annual Conference Prices Location $25 Student $75 Educators / Staff Date July 25 & July 26, 2024 (9:00 am - 3:00 pm/pst) Share Online This year, PHD’s annual conference will be held online. The conference will focus on raising awareness about access to health-related programs and careers for undocumented individuals. 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 Speaker Spotlights Conference Agenda Click here to view agenda Thank you for your partnership and for being a conference sponsor. BECOME A SPONSOR

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 2020-2021 Cohort consisted of 60 participants; half were from California and the rest from across the United States! Please get to know our future scientists, educators, and health providers by hearing their stories and learning from their advice below Alexis Career: Medicine Alexis is a college access professional in the Central Valley. Born in México, he migrated with his family to the U.S. at a young age. After seeing his single mother work in the Central Valley's back-breaking agricultural fields, he was motivated to pursue higher education. He went off to UCLA and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a double minor in Chicana/o Studies and Labor & Workplace Studies. He then returned to the Central Valley and dedicated his professional career to educational outreach programs that service Fresno county. After countless years of encouraging his student to pursue their dreams, he is now committed to pursuing his own. Alexis is seeking a change in his career and hopes to become a healthcare professional that continues to be an agent of change in his community. Fueled by his passion for his family and community, his ultimate goal is to become a community physician in California's Central Valley. Adriana Career: Medicine Hello, my name is Adriana. I was born in Salina Cruz Oaxaca, Mexico. I was brought here to the United States at the age of 3 and have lived in California ever since. After high school, I decided to go to community college to decide what career I wanted to pursue. Going to Santa Monica College gave me time and the liberty to think and determine my choices clearer and my path rate. I recently transferred to California State University Northridge, pursuing a B.A in psychology and also pre-med, I hope to see myself in the near future applying to medical school to help others to pursue their goals too and support low-income, unrepresented and immigrant communities. Adyzabeth Career: Physician Assistant I was born in Mexico, but North Carolina has been home for the past sixteen years. I have been fortunate to be a DACA recipient for about eight years now. But despite this opportunity, many of us have experienced limitations and barriers when pursuing higher studies. I am proud to say I have completed my Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Health Science at Guilford College, Greensboro, North Carolina, this past May. As an aspiring physician assistant, I am currently working as a nurse assistant to acquire healthcare experience. I plan on applying to the physician assistant program of the following schools: Wingate University, High Point University, and Elon University. My future goal is to help DACA students through this same journey of obtaining a higher education and providing them with the same support and guidance I have received from friends and family. Alma Career: Medicine I am a first-generation college student from Santa Ana, CA, who is pursuing a challenging career in medicine/public health. I am the oldest of five and the first one in my family to go into higher education and be a DACA student who has had a hard time applying to many opportunities. Moving to a new Country at five years old was difficult because of the language and new culture. Despite this, I recently graduated from UC Berkeley with a major in Integrative Biology and a minor in Global Poverty and Practice. I hope to give back to my community in the future Andrea Career: Dentistry I am a second-year undocumented pre-dental student at Trinity Washington University. My passion for medicine was instilled by my mother, who was an Anesthesiologist in El Salvador for nearly seven years until I was born. Being undocumented for me has been overcoming barriers to get into undergrad and paying for college. Therefore I am grateful to be a recipient of the Dream.US scholarship for paying for undergrad. During my first year of college, I saw a nudge to go into Dentistry when my wisdom tooth became infected. Half my face was inflamed, and I was rushed to the dentist by my mother. It turned out that my wisdom teeth were pushing my teeth together because they were coming in horizontally. Within the next month, I was getting all four wisdom teeth removed. Now I am pursuing a Bachelors of Science majoring in Chemistry and an aspiring Dentist. Angelika Career: Medicine My name is Angelika. I was born in the Philippines and moved to the United States when I was nine years old. Growing up, I was always taught that hard work makes your dream come true. Not until recently that I realized that's not entirely true. Arriving in the United States, unaware of my status, allowed me to see life through a different lens. My parents did not let me feel inadequate. I went to modeling school, did few fashion gigs, joined a dance crew in college, and did few dance competitions and shows afterward. I like reading self-help books relating to mental health. I like interior designing and building furniture. I love listening to poetry slams and writing with my oblique, dip pen in calligraphy. I love traveling and learning about different cultures as I go. I love hiking and discovering my limits. I love the ocean and realizing that life is, in some sense, limitless. However, underneath all of this, my passion lies in helping people. Seeing patients from my work go through heartbreaks to breakthroughs and breakthroughs followed by heartbreaks gives me the drive to move forward with science. Also, I want to make my parents proud, and my brothers are inspired to allow themselves to be whoever they want to be and live a life they are proud of. Azucena Career: Medicine Azucena is a Mexican immigrant who was raised in East Point and Fayetteville, Georgia. She is currently in the second year of her undergraduate studies at Trinity Washington University, where she studies Biochemistry. In addition, Azucena is an Eligibility Specialist at a non-profit medical clinic in Washington, DC. She breaks down those barriers for underserved DC residents by connecting them with medical services, food pantries, immigration lawyers, etc. Her goal is to become a physician and to bridge the gap of health disparities in marginalized communities. Catherine Career: Medical Scientist (MD/PHD) Catherine was born in Hong Kong on November 19, 1997. She emigrated from Hong Kong to the United States at three years old with her two brothers under her parents' authority. Since then, she and her family members have stayed in the U.S. as undocumented immigrants. Catherine is currently studying Linguistics at the University of Maryland and is seeking this degree to help with her future Medical career and study language. She desires to be a Medical Doctor and a Physician-Scientist (MD-PhD). Being an African undocumented immigrant, she has faced many barriers that have affected her personal life, mental health, and academic life. And though those challenges approached her, she still presses on and continues to trust in God that she will complete her degree and successfully become the Medical doctor she desires. Dafne Career: Medicine Hello, my name is Dafne, and I enjoy dancing the night away to some amazing Bachata, Salsa, or Cha Cha, you name it. I am active in my community by mentoring 6-12 graders wanting to pursue a STEM profession. I am a product of immigrants; born in Mexico and came to the states when I was two years old. Being a first-generation college student, it took me quite a while to navigate the environment, and I’m still figuring my way through the premedical path. I am an aspiring surgeon specializing in Neurology or Cardiology to serve underserved communities better. I hope to play a role in combating the health inequities that predominantly affect communities of color. Denisse Career: Medicine Hello, I am Denisse. I was raised in the Inland Empire, and I am currently a second-year student at the University of California, Riverside. I am pursuing a degree in biochemistry and ethnic studies. My goal is to become a physician and work for the underserved communities that are often forgotten. I am also passionate about fighting for the rights of women and immigrants. I am currently a volunteer for the Inland Empire Immigrant Youth Coalition, an organization where I have met beautiful people from many different backgrounds. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and being outdoors! Diana Career: Physician Assistant Dania is an immigrant from Baja California, Mexico, who grew up in Southern California. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of California, Merced, where she studied Biological Sciences with an emphasis on Developmental Biology. She is currently in her gap years completing the rest of the prerequisites and patient care hours for a Physician Assistant Program. Dania is presently working as a physical therapy aide in a local private practice serving a diverse community in Oxnard, CA. Her role as an aide gives her the responsibility to care for Spanish-speaking patients. She serves as a liaison between the doctor and patient to ensure the best quality of care to the community's underserved patients. She is very passionate about advocating for Spanish-speaking individuals by understanding their care at the practice. She believes in health as a human right and is motivated to utilize her skills in a place where she is most needed. Her professional goal is to become a Physician Assistant with a specialty in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dulce Career: Medicine Hola! My name is Dulce, and I am a fourth-year student at UC Riverside. I was born in Mexico City and brought to the states when I was 2-years old. Due to my immigration status, I had to deny every university that accepted me out of high school and decided to attend Pasadena City College. At my community college, I discovered how to merge my interests in psychology and chemistry, which led me to pursue my B.S degree in neuroscience. Due to the lack of mentorship I had in high school into higher education, I now serve as a student mentor to students like myself. I also advocate for higher education to high school students in underprivileged communities and community college folks. My urology and rheumatology medical clinic work has also shown me the much work needed to do to build better communication and education between physicians and patients. Juntos Podemos! Eva Career: Physician Assistant Hello! My name is Eva, and I am currently a junior at Agnes Scott College in Decatur, GA. I’m a firm believer in being extraordinary and letting the best part of me shine. I’m currently learning Korean and dabble in some drawing and photography. I also love dogs and have four at home. Eva G. Career: Medicine Eva is from Toluca, Mexico, and grew up in Orange County after moving to California at three. She completed high school at Western High School in Anaheim, CA, and is currently working on her bachelor's degree in Kinesiology while also completing pre-med prerequisites at California State University, Fullerton. She is currently working as a tutor and pre-college advisor with Upward Bound and her old high school. Recently she has had the great opportunity to become a social media ambassador to Virtue Mental, a non-profit organization that seeks to provide free mental health resources to underprivileged communities. Her ultimate career goal is to become an emergency physician and practice medicine in California. Jackeline Career: Nursing My name is Jackeline, and I was born in the city of Guatemala, Central America. I migrated to the United States when I was nine years old, along with my sister. Moving to the US opened many doors and expanded opportunities for my sister and me to further our education. I received my high school diploma, was awarded scholarships, and received my Bachelor’s Degree in Health Education from San Francisco State University. I currently work as a Community Health Outreach Worker with youth. I am now looking forward to furthering my education and obtaining a career in the medical field as a Nurse. Jefferson Career: Medicine Name: Jefersson; Hometown: East Los Angeles; Born in: Guatemala City, Guatemala; Degree: Bachelor's in Science; Career interested in: Medicine/ Nursing; Favorite hobbies: Watching soccer/basketball games with my brother and going bike riding Jhon Career: Medicine Greeting fellow peers, my name is Jhon, and I am a student from the University of California, Irvine, pursuing the medical field to become a doctor. I come from Peru, and one of my hobbies surrounds listening and making music. I am passionate about creating a healthcare equity environment within our undocumented community and advocating for health's basic human rights. Johan Career: Medicine I was born in El Salvador and immigrated to the US when I was very young. I grew up in Virginia, where I attended the Governor's Health Science Academy at Cosby High School. Where I learned about healthcare careers and where my passion for the health sciences flourished. I'm currently completing a bachelor of science in Clinical Neuroscience at Virginia Tech. I'm very fortunate and ecstatic to be part of this year's PEEP Cohort! I enjoy giving back to the community through volunteering and helping those that need our help. I'm also very passionate about advocating for social change and representing those that are underrepresented. I aspire to become a doctor in the future, not only to help others but also to promote equity and change the world! I believe that it's imperative to keep dreaming, tackle obstacles with a smile, and encourage others to keep fighting for their rights. To not let the struggles define us, but to empower and make us grow. “ Be optimistic, don’t get lost in the sea of despair, but be bold, be courageous and all will work out” - John Lewis Joseph Career: Public Health Joseph is a Junior pursuing Health Science at Rutgers University-Camden transferring from Camden County Community College. Joseph immigrated to the United States from Honduras at the age of 6 and desires to become a public health practitioner focusing on health equity, health policy, and health promotion for underserved communities. Mariel Career: Physician Assistant Mariel is a Mexican immigrant and a first-generation college student. She grew up in Colorado and moved to Riverside, California, in 2013. She is currently in her last year of undergrad and will be graduating in the spring of 2021 with a B.A. in Public Health Policy. She hopes to gain medical experience during her gap year(s) to apply to a Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. When she becomes a PA-C, she hopes to serve uninsured Latino communities to address health disparities. In the future, she hopes to share her experience and pre-PA students. Martha Career: Medicine My name is Martha. I am a third-year undergraduate student at the University of California Merced, majoring in Biology with an emphasis in Human Biology. I was born in Michoacán, Mexico, and currently reside in Los Angeles, California. Upon graduating, I plan to attend Medical School. My goal is to become a pediatrician to give back to my community. There are not enough bilingual or minority doctors servicing low-income communities, making doctor-patient communication difficult. As a minority myself, my goal is to help bridge the communication gap by going back and servicing the community where I grew up. I want to alleviate the stress parents undergo when having to discuss their children’s medical concerns, stress brought on because of language and cultural barriers. Monserath Career: Medicine Monserrath is an immigrant from Morelos, Mexico. She grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and has a Bachelor of Science in biology and Master of Science in biochemistry from the University of Scranton. She is the first in her family to graduate high school and college with the help of her supportive parents and family. Monserrath wishes to attend medical school to help her community gain better access to healthcare. She also enjoys tutoring and mentoring other students of the same background to make education more accessible for all. Paola Career: Medicine I was born in Minas Gerais, Brasil. At the age of four, I immigrated to the United States with my family and grew up in Yonkers, NY. I am currently obtaining my Bachelor of Science from the University of Rochester in Microbiology with a minor in epidemiology. I hope to attend medical school and become a pediatrician. As a physician in the US, I hope to go back to the diverse community I grew up in and help eradicate the health disparities that are so prevalent. If given the opportunity, I would love to use my public health/epidemiology background and work abroad. It’s my dream to one day be able to travel back to Brazil, over 17 years later, with the ability to implement positive change. Valentina Career: Nursing My name is Valentina, and I am originally from Colombia. I am currently studying at a community college to get all my pre-requisites done to transfer to a nursing program. I would love to become a BSN and specialize in pediatrics. I have always loved to help people who need an extra hand. Victoria Career: Research (PHD) Victoria was born in Guerrero, Mexico, and was raised in a small rural community of the Central Valley called Porterville. She is a third-year undergraduate student at UC Merced. Victoria is pursuing a double major in Public Health and Spanish. Potentially in the future, she aspires to help underrepresented communities that lack healthcare resources and health benefits. She hopes that her success story becomes a role model for other undocumented first-generation Latinas who want to pursue higher education. Yemile Career: Medicine Yemile is a senior at Harvard College studying Human Evolutionary Biology. While Yemile is originally from Nuevo Leon, Mexico, she has lived in Houston, Texas, for most of her life. As a first-generation college student, she is active in advising other under-resourced students to encourage them to pursue higher education. Her goal is to become a pediatrician to provide better healthcare to children from low-income and immigrant communities. She also hopes to work towards fighting against healthcare disparities related to socioeconomic and immigration status.

PATHWAYS Schedule Check out the amazing lineup of workshops for the upcoming Pathways cohort starting in January 2025. Pathways Portal Student Calendar

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.

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.

PEEP | Student Portal The advent of long and ongoing educational system for professional has highlighted the need for better policy at both the institutional and local level. We are looking for the most interesting applications that make up a variety of backgrounds to tackle these educational boulders. This is the program to brainstorm and build innovative solutions with students from like minded environments. As a member of the PEEP Cohort you will be armed with the tools and social networks needed to tackle higher educational pursuits as an immigrant. Interested in all of the above? Join our 2024 PEEP Cohort! Please make sure that you are willing to commit to attend mandatory sessions and meet the PEEP Innovative Challenge commitments. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis. Coming this Fall PEEP Scholar Program Schedule for Students Full program schedule, highlighted with mandatory, optional and workshop events. PEEP Student Resources Resources shared during webinars that is made available to Pre-Health Dreamers PEEP Students for the 2023 Cohort.

The Prizes. The total prize pool for the PEEP Innovation Challenge is currently offering differing awards for first, second, and third place for most innovative solutions to the PEEP Innovative Challenge. 1st Place $ 1500 2nd Place $ 1000 3rd Place $ 500

Want to be a part of Pre-Health Dreamers programming? Find the right scholastic program or bootcamp for you. Students Peer Engagement & Enrichment Program (PEEP) For current students, past alumni, and those pursuing the next step in their health care education. LaunchPad Open to anyone interested in pursuing a venture in health careers. Resources For any quick tips, Q&A, or other reference documents we have for various health careers.

BECOME A SPONSOR Click Here Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) is excited to announce that we are seeking sponsorship for our 2-Day Student Retreat and Annual Conference taking place in July 2023 in Los Angeles, CA. This will be the first in-person retreat for our students since the pandemic, and it will be the first time our conference is in person!

In 2025, PHD's Pathway Program served over 600 students , through individualized support, cohort style programming and trainings. Overview of our Pre-Health Dreamers student participants, Approximately 90% of participants are First-Generation: 16 % 5 % Over 60% identify as Latino Over 16% identify as Asian Over 75% identify as Female Over 5% identify as Black In 2024-2025, PHD: PHD is a national program. However, 50% of participants reside in California, including: Los Angeles San Bernardino Bay Area Central California Join and supported 4 CA and Nationwide Taskforces that elevate access and equity for undocumented individuals in health-related professional programs and careers. Reached 600 students and 1000 educators its programming. Met with 200 students through 1-on-1 advising; Undocu Launch Pad PHD piloted UndocuLaunch Pad in 2024. Entrepreneurship can be an option for scholars and professionals in the health workforce, as their immigration status will prevent them from applying for traditional employment. Dentists, nurses, physician assistants, physical therapists, and other health professionals can serve their communities and enjoy financial independence with their own businesses or contracts. Learn More A low number (5-10%) of undocumented students matriculating into professional programs Inequitable educational and health access of specialized support for this population PHDreamers 2 0 2 5 Annual Report Newsletter