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).”

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.

Health Care Access DACA and Medi-Cal “Enrolling in Medi-Cal means you will have access to health services for FREE or at low cost, including preventative services- like annual check-ups, dental and vision care, and medication.” BUILDING STRONGER CONNECTIONS & A SAFE SPACE FOR UNDOCUMENTED PATIENTS Pre-Health Dreamers' undocu ally training is designed for health professionals and pre-health students. This presentation defines the undocumented community and provides essential national-level data that brings awareness to the needs of this population. Our team will also discuss legislation affecting undocumented and immigrant communities and their access to health care, and how structural competency relates to undocumented immigrants. We will provide ideas for creating a safe clinical space, strengthening the connection between you and your undocumented patients, and developing partnerships that will continue to bring this training to your sites. Please contact yadi@phdreamers.org for more information and to request a training. Building Stronger Connections & A Safe Space for Undocumented Patients Immigrant Health Community Packet “Thank you to the CA-PIF, Outreach & Communications Workgroup and immigrant community experts for the Immigrant Health Community Packet below!” Please contact yadi@phdreamers.org to request a presentation. #Health4All “Pre-Health Dreamers has a shared vision of a healthier community, where everyone has access to affordable and quality health care regardless of immigration status. We are committed to collaborating with community partners in the effort to redefine “health” and “health care” for the undocumented immigrant communities, and to advocate for changes in legislation or policies to reach our vision. Documented or undocumented, everyone deserves to be healthy.” How Can Physicians Care and Advocate for Undocumented Immigrants? “About 11 million undocumented people are living in the U.S. today. This is one of the country’s most vulnerable populations because they frequently do not have access to health insurance and can be afraid to present for care. Physicians should understand the ethical issues that arise when supporting and caring for undocumented immigrants, refugees and asylees. “ NILC: Health Care Providers and Immigration Enforcement Know Your Rights, Know Your Patients’ Rights “The threat of increased federal immigration enforcement has raised concerns among immigrant families, some of whom may decide to forego necessary medical services out of fear that they could be putting themselves and their family members at risk. This factsheet provides advice to hospitals, medical centers, community health centers, other health care facilities, and advocates on how to prepare for and respond to (a) enforcement actions by immigration officials and (b) interactions with law enforcement that could result in immigration consequences for their patients.” California Health Care Resources for Undocumented Immigrants from Hispanas Organized for Political Equity (HOPE) “This resource guide provides a comprehensive list of affordable healthcare options. The resource guide includes services rendered, health care provider contact information, and types of fees.”

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.

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Become a member of our community Comprehensive Guidance For Educators For Students

Health Care Access Practical resources and training for health care providers committed to supporting undocumented patients and immigrant communities. This training is currently available! Please contact Yadira Ortiz at yadi@phdreamers.org for more information and to request a training. Pre-Health Dreamers' undocu ally training is designed for health professionals and pre-health students. This presentation defines the undocumented community and provides essential national-level data that brings awareness to the needs of this population. Our team will also discuss legislation affecting undocumented and immigrant communities and their access to health care, and how structural competency relates to undocumented immigrants. We will provide ideas for creating a safe clinical space, strengthening the connection between you and your undocumented patients, and developing partnerships that will continue to bring this training to your sites. Learn more Immigrant Health Community Packet This training is currently available! Please contact Yadira Ortiz at yadi@phdreamers.org for more information and to request a training. “Thank you to the CA-PIF, Outreach & Communications Workgroup and immigrant community experts for the Immigrant Health Community Packet below!” Learn more BUILDING STRONGER CONNECTIONS & A SAFE SPACE FOR UNDOCUMENTED PATIENTS Health Care & Immigration Resources Explore guides and resources to help health care providers understand immigration-related concerns, protect patients’ rights, and connect undocumented immigrants with health care resources. AMA Journal of Ethics, 4 Min Read How Can Physicians Care and Advocate for Undocumented Immigrants? “About 11 million undocumented people are living in the U.S. today. This is one of the country’s most vulnerable populations because they frequently do not have access to health insurance and can be afraid to present for care. Physicians should understand the ethical issues that arise when supporting and caring for undocumented immigrants, refugees and asylees. " National Immigration Law Center, 2017 NILC: Health Care Providers and Immigration EnforcementKnow Your Rights, Know Your Patients’ Rights “The threat of increased federal immigration enforcement has raised concerns among immigrant families, some of whom may decide to forego necessary medical services out of fear that they could be putting themselves and their family members at risk. This factsheet provides advice to hospitals, medical centers, community health centers, other health care facilities, and advocates on how to prepare for and respond to (a) enforcement actions by immigration officials and (b) interactions with law enforcement that could result in immigration consequences for their patients.” Hispanas Organized for Political Equality HOPE: California Health Care Resources for Undocumented Immigrants “This resource guide provides a comprehensive list of affordable healthcare options. The resource guide includes services rendered, health care provider contact information, and types of fees.”

Become a PHD Member! Connect. Grow. Lead. PHD is more than a network—it’s a community. Whether you’re navigating your own path in the health professions, supporting students as an educator, or investing in the future of our community as a funder, sponsor, or donor, there’s a place for you here. Connect with PHD, discover opportunities to get involved, and help strengthen a community where scholars can learn, grow, and lead together. Ways to Get Involved Explore and apply to PHD’s Pathways Program and Nursing Connect Program, designed to support students pursuing careers in the health professions and entrepreneurial ventures. Scholars Learn more Stay connected with PHD through advocacy projects , professional networks , and storytelling opportunities across medicine, nursing, dentistry, and more. Share your journey, amplify your voice, and stay engaged with the PHD community. PHD Alumni Learn more Connect with PHD through UndocuEdu membership as an individual or institution, or request a presentation or training for your campus or organization. Explore LaunchPad For Educators to learn how to explore entrepreneurship with your students. Educators Learn More Join the PHD community and connect with us to explore meaningful opportunities to support our scholars and strengthen our work. Learn more about our Padrino/Madrina Sponsorship Program and ways to partner with PHD. Funders and Sponsors Learn more

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.”

Our Impact Transforming healthcare through targeted support and programming Our work reaches beyond individual students. We equip future health professionals with resources, community, mentorship, and opportunities while partnering with institutions to strengthen their capacity to support undocumented student 400+ scholars reached through community webinars and campus presentations 200+ Scholars met with PHD for individualized support 40 scholars completed the 2025 Pathways Cohort 73 scholars, educators, and professionals completed PHD's entrepreneurship cohort 100+ scholars, educators, and professionals reached during PHD's webinar "Fostering an Entrepreneurship Mindset" 1,000 educators reached via campus trainings and online educators specific workshops Through targeted support and programming, PHD transforms healthcare opportunities and reimagines belonging in medical education and health care— recognizing undocumented identity as a source of power, not a limitation. PHD Tackles Inequities Nationally Read More Did you know? Approximately 5–10% of undocumented students attending four-year institutions go on to enroll in professional programs. Limited access to specialized educational and health support creates additional barriers for undocumented students pursuing professional careers. 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. 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.

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.

Institutional Guidance: Pharmacy 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. 2021 Guidance for Pharmacy Programs on Considering Applicants with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals DACA “This guide encourages admissions committees and institutional leaders involved in selection processes to consider applicants with DACA for seats in their Pharmacy program as they would consider any other applicant. Upon review of applications, you are sure to find that these students have a breadth of life experiences, cultural agility, linguistic expertise, and unique perspectives.”

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.

This bootcamp offered in the spring allows one to open their own business to work in the healthcare career of their choosing. Welcome to UndocuLaunch Pad: Empowering Health Professionals UndocuLaunch Pad is a virtual 6-week bootcamp designed to equip both students and educators with essential skills and knowledge for navigating the healthcare field as undocumented professionals. Through tailored sessions, participants gain valuable entrepreneurial skills, legal and business insights, and practical tools to overcome barriers unique to the undocumented community. For more information see below LaunchPad's Impact in 2024 Spring 2024 Cohort Report Fall 2024 Cohort Report Why is LaunchPad important? 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. "The overall knowledge that the resources had catered so well to the undocumented community. It was great to learn and get a lot of hope moving forward." - Fall Participant 2024 Students Learn More Educators Learn More 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.

In the Media PHDreamers' Director, Yadira Ortiz gets interviewed during Gente Unidas's Podcast "Magnificent Mujer" August 31, 2020 Pre-Health Dreamers Response to Supreme Court DACA Decision June 18, 2020 Co-founder Denisse Rojas' interview with Senator Chuck Schumer May 4, 2020 Striking down DACA would eliminate thousands of health care workers, thwarting America's pandemic response May 1, 2020 DACA health workers risk their lives to fight COVID-19 while they await SCOTUS ruling April 30, 2020 WE ARE MEDICAL WORKERS AND DACA RECIPIENTS. IT IS OUR DUTY TO PROTECT AMERICA FROM COVID-19 April 23, 2020 Thousands of DACA health care workers fight coronavirus - and worry about their fate March 30, 2020 DACA workers on the health care front lines March 28, 2020