A Message from our President, Katherine!
Dear FAHCmilya,
Hello everyone! It is an honor to welcome you all to the Filipinx Association for Health Careers (FAHC) at UC Davis.
In 1981, a group of students established FAHC as a committee of Mga Kapatid, one of the eight Fil-Am organizations at UCD. Then, FAHC became an independent organization in 1985, allowing for further access to resources, funding, and event venues. Now, FAHC continues to provide free academic and social support, as well as resources for cultural awareness and various pre-health career pathways.
FAHC is one of the only organizations on campus that focuses on culturally relevant care. As future healthcare professionals, it is important to be caretakers not only for others, but for ourselves as well— a discipline that involves understanding our past. And that comes with acknowledging our diverse hxstory. For several years, Filipinx individuals have been overworked and under-recognized in several professional fields, including healthcare. Despite these adversities, our ancestors fought hard, making their mark in a world that rejected us. And as we continue moving towards the future, FAHC exists as a reminder of their sacrifices and impact.
One of my first memories with FAHC was during my freshman year. I was a pre-med kid who didn’t really know anyone. Walking among the Memorial Union club tables, I saw the Philippine flag on FAHC’s logo from afar. When I finally approached the table, the FAHC community members welcomed me with open arms. Their warm energy and conscientious leadership inspired me to step out of my comfort zone, connect back to my cultural roots, and seek opportunities that will foster my personal, professional, and social growth. Three years later, I am still growing and learning, side-by-side with this community.
Along those lines, together with UCD’s other Fil-Am organizations— BRIDGE, Filipinx Americans in Liberal Arts and Humanities (FILAH), Mga Kapatid, Kappa Psi Epsilon, Kapwa, Pilipinx Americans in Science and Engineering (PASE), and Pilipinx in Business and Law (PIBL)— we strive to promote Fil-Am unity by creating a safe, inclusive, and productive space for all who wish to join this amazing community!
I am so excited for what our talented FAHC board has planned for the year ahead. Get ready for professional and social mentorship programs, study halls, delicious fundraisers, sports events, themed workshops, and more.
Lastly, I hope you make valuable memories within FAHC and the greater Fil-Am community. College is far from the end of your journey, but we are so happy you chose to include FAHC as a chapter of your story!
Take care, and I’ll see you soon!
Sincerely,
Katherine Uy
FAHC President 2024-2025