Top Reasons to Attend the UC Davis Pre-Health Conference

If you're pursuing a career in healthcare, whether in medicine, nursing, dentistry, public health, or allied health, the UC Davis Pre-Health Conference is one of the most valuable events you can attend. Designed to empower and guide future healthcare professionals, this nationally recognized conference offers a powerful mix of networking, education, and career exploration.

With thousands of attendees, hundreds of exhibitors, and dozens of expert-led workshops, the event provides unmatched insight into what it takes to succeed in the health professions.

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A Premier National Event for Aspiring Health Professionals

Held annually on the UC Davis campus, the Pre-Health Conference attracts students from across the country. It brings together:

3,000+ attendees, including pre-med, pre-PA, and pre-nursing students
200+ health professions exhibitors
150+ speakers, including admissions deans, physicians, nurses, and healthcare leaders
Dozens of breakout workshops focused on admissions, clinical skills, and career discovery

From understanding the medical school admissions process to exploring public health or alternative paths like physician assistant or dental programs, the conference gives attendees direct access to the people and information that matter most.

What You’ll Gain from Attending

Clarity on Career Paths

Whether you’re still deciding between nursing and medicine, or you’re exploring options like global health, mental health, or occupational therapy, the conference helps you evaluate your fit and interests.

Direct Advice from Program Leaders

One of the most valuable aspects of the conference is the opportunity to engage directly with representatives from health professional schools. You’ll hear from admissions officers, financial aid experts, and current students who’ve successfully navigated the path you're on.

Exposure to Global Health Opportunities

Sessions often highlight global healthcare experiences as an important part of a competitive application—and a meaningful way to grow. Students can learn about programs like those offered by Go Elective, which provide clinical internships abroad. These kinds of experiences help pre-health students build confidence, gain hands-on exposure, and understand healthcare through a cross-cultural lens.

Community and Mentorship

The event is also a great place to meet like-minded peers, discover mentorship opportunities, and connect with pre-health advisors from across the U.S. You’ll leave with both new knowledge and a supportive network to help you move forward.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for:

Pre-med, pre-PA, and pre-nursing students
Post-bac and gap year students
Community college students planning healthcare careers
Pre-health advisors and mentors
Anyone exploring health professions or graduate programs in healthcare

No matter where you are on your path—just getting started or preparing to apply—the UC Davis Pre-Health Conference offers resources to support and accelerate your journey.

How to Prepare

If you’re planning to attend in the future, here are a few tips to make the most of it:

Come with questions for school representatives and workshop leaders
Take notes during sessions on admissions, personal statements, and interviews
Explore global health tracks and experiential learning options that align with your goals
Network thoughtfully—these are the people who can help you shape your next step

Final Thoughts

The UC Davis Pre-Health Conference is more than just a college fair. It’s a launchpad for your future in healthcare. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your application, learn about different specialties, or explore clinical experiences like those offered by Go Elective, this event helps you see what’s possible and how to get there.

If you're committed to a career in healthcare and eager to explore every opportunity to grow, this is one event you’ll want to keep on your radar.