advocacy
The advocacy pillar strives to help students become allies and advocates for issues that they are passionate about. Whether it’s drafting your first letter to the editor (LTE) or lobbying to your congressional officials in a congressional meeting, the advocacy pillar is a great setting for members to improve their research, writing, and public speaking skills. In addition, members will learn about and experience many methods of advocacy for issues such as health disparities resulting from COVID-19 and access to affordable health insurance. Become a more effective advocate and create lasting impact in both the UCLA community and the greater legislative landscape by joining!
Pillars
health literacy
The health literacy pillar aims to increase understanding of both basic healthcare topics and important healthcare policy issues among UCLA students and the greater Los Angeles community. Members will get a chance to write blog posts and design infographics on health topics of their choosing, which will be published on the CaHPSA's website and Instagram. Members will also give presentations about topics such as mental health, healthy habits, and sexual health to high school students in the Los Angeles area.
volunteering
The volunteering pillar goes beyond electoral politics and legislation by serving our communities. Members have the opportunity to volunteer in our community and give back. We organize food drives, hygiene kit events, and more. Along with this, members have the opportunity to become Certified Enrollment Counselors in order to help low-income families apply for Covered California Health Plans Entities.
opportunities
mentorship
Mentees will be paired with a health professionals and engage in 1-on-1 meetings over the course of the academic year. This is an opportunity to develop communication skills, receive advice from experienced experts, and gain insight into the day-to-day life of a health professional.
student-led research
We are conducting a year-long, student-led research project to gain a greater understanding of the health insurance literacy and utilization of UCLA students. Members who apply and are accepted to the team will assist in designing and leading the project! In addition, the research program will host one workshop per quarter to provide guidance for attendees to successfully join research/clinical programs of their interests.
professional development
Our organization offers opportunities for professional development not only via building community with other health-justice oriented individuals, but also through quarterly workshops surrounding topics such as how to enter the world of research or resume building, as well as panels with healthcare professionals.
events
Activate U conference
Saturday, November 19, 2022, 9am-1pm via zoom
Hear from amazing speakers, ranging from health professionals to government officials, who are passionate about health justice. Participate in advocacy workshops to learn how to write proposals, one-pagers, and petitions. CaHPSA chapters across UCs come together to plan this amazing event for our communities & all CaHPSA members can assist in planning!