Upon graduating high school, many immigrant youth in the United States are faced with significant barriers to attending college. Cost is a major factor, especially for undocumented immigrant students who are not able to access loans or in-state tuition.
Lack of access to higher education is associated with severe health inequity. Youth who don’t attend college die 7 years sooner than their college-educated peers. In addition, workforce diversity is diminished as aspiring doctors and nurses are unable to pursue their studies.
The Education Equity Initiative of the AMSA REACH Committee seeks to educate medical students about immigrants’ differential access to higher education and to mobilize AMSA members to take action to support Education Equity efforts in their states and regions. Find out more below!
Angy from the New York State Youth Leadership Council talks about the connections between immigration status, health, and access to education. To learn more about NYSYLC visit: www.nysylc.org.