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For first-generation students and those historically underrepresented in medicine, navigating the pre-health journey can feel isolating and overwhelming. Limited access to mentorship, financial barriers, and systemic obstacles make pursuing a career in healthcare more difficult. LCCM’s Pre-Health Conference was created to bridge that gap. It is a space where students can see healthcare professionals who look like them, have walked a similar path, and have successfully broken barriers to achieve their dreams. This representation is critical in building confidence and resilience among pre-health students, reaffirming that they belong in these spaces.

Through a series of workshops, keynote speakers, hands-on demonstrations, and networking opportunities, attendees will gain insight into the medical school application process, alternative healthcare careers, financial aid and scholarships, research opportunities, gap year options, and much more. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions such as suturing workshops, ultrasound demonstrations, and professional development panels.

What is LCCM’s Pre-Health Conference?

LCCM’s 21st Annual Pre-Health Conference is a FREE, full-day event dedicated to empowering and supporting students on their journey to a career in healthcare. Whether you are a high school student, community college student, undergraduate, or in your enrichment years, this conference is designed to provide invaluable guidance, mentorship, and resources for aspiring healthcare professionals from all backgrounds.

Hosted by Latinxs/Chicanxs for Community Medicine (LCCM) at UCLA, with the support of MEDPEP (Medical Preparation and Education Pipeline Program) and UCLA Health’s Underrepresented in Medicine – Center of Excellence (UIM-COE), this conference is more than just an educational event—it is a space for community, mentorship, and inspiration.

This conference is also about building connections. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet medical students, residents, physicians, and healthcare professionals who are eager to mentor and support future generations of healthcare providers. Additionally, students will be able to network with other like-minded peers, pre-health organizations, and UCLA faculty who are all working toward increasing diversity and representation in healthcare.

By attending LCCM’s Pre-Health Conference, you are taking an important step toward your future—gaining knowledge, building a supportive network, and affirming your place in medicine. We hope you leave feeling inspired, empowered, and more confident in your journey.

Join us on April 12, 2025, at UCLA for this transformative experience!


What Will You Gain?

  • Pre-Health Guidance – Gain valuable insights into the medical school application process, healthcare career pathways, and enrichment opportunities.

  • Networking – Connect with medical students, residents, physicians, and healthcare professionals who are eager to mentor and guide you on your journey.

  • Resources – Learn about scholarships, research opportunities, gap year programs, and other essential tools to help you succeed in your pre-health journey.

  • Hands-on Experience – Participate in suturing workshops, ultrasound demonstrations, mock interviews, and other interactive sessions to develop practical skills.

  • Connect with Peers – Build meaningful relationships with other students who share your passion for medicine and healthcare.

  • Find Orgs & Schools That Align with Your Mission – Meet representatives from medical schools, pre-health organizations, and enrichment programs that support underrepresented students in medicine.

  • FREE Registration, Breakfast & Lunch! – Enjoy a cost-free experience filled with learning, networking, and inspiration!

LCCM’s Annual Conference - 2024

Delve into the resources and workshops we had during our 2024 conference showcased here in our booklet. There was an array of speakers and workshops carefully crafted for our success. You will notice that there was a range of resources meant to serve different groups and career paths.

LCCM’s 20th Pre-Health Conference

  • Dr. Hayes-Bautista's Speech

  • Western University

  • Nursing Panel

  • Charles Drew University

  • Mariachi de Uclatlán

  • UCLA Care Extenders

  • Grupo Folklórico de UCLA

  • Registration Table

  • Welcome Address

  • Suturing Workshop

  • Community College to Medical School Workshop

  • CPR Workshop

  • Pre-PA Workshop

  • Conference Tote

What are People Saying About Conference?

Jasmine Gonzalez, 2024 Graduate

One of the most memorable moments of the conference was listening to the closing speaker, Dr. Wendy Ruggeri, an inspiring Latina ER physician who works with incarcerated individuals. Seeing a fellow Latina so deeply committed to the same communities I aspire to serve reinforced my belief in my ability to follow a similar path. Speakers like her serve not only as a source of encouragement and inspiration but also as mentor who will support throughout my journey into medicine.”

Emily Maldonado, 2024 Graduate

I also felt inspired by our speakers and professionals because they all have a unique and distinct story that sets each of them apart from one another. It gave me an idea that there’s no specific road to be successful or to reach your goal. I also got the opportunity to connect with some school of admission counselors which is a great way to learn how you can increase your likelihood in attending a certain program or simply get tips.

Arleth Lozada, 2024 Graduate

I got to connect with a lot of Latinx doctors and fellow students to learn about their experiences that led them to be where they are today and I really enjoyed the motivational speeches that were given during the conference. Something new I learned about the health field is that each different health profession has their own unique set of requirements to apply so make sure to reach out for info early so you can apply when you are ready!

Emily Marquez, 2024 Graduate

As a pre-med, attending the conference allowed me to communicate with medical students and learn more about the medical school application. In addition, I was able to learn from different programs and clubs during the tabling event. As I networked around the tabling event, I was able to learn about the importance of diversifying the AAMC 15 activities. Speaking to medical students, I was able to create goals for my gap years to enrich my med application!

Maritza Campos, 2024 Graduate

I helped host the conference so attending the conference was really rewarding to see put together! I loved seeing people network and get excited about the different opportunities they could embark. I would say my highlight was when attendees came up to me and shared what the conference meant to them!