Preparing for Conference

As you know, Conference is an all-day event full of opportunities to meet health-related professionals, schools, and organizations on the UC Davis campus. We want you to feel prepared and ready to tackle the day ahead, so below are tips and reminders for success.

Important: Check your email - you will receive important logistical information as Conference Day approaches.

How do I plan my Conference Day schedule?

We encourage you to review the Conference Agenda below:

  • Conference Agenda
  • 6:30am-8:00am:

    8:00am-9:00am: 

    9:00am-12:00pm:   

    12:00pm-1:00pm: 

    1pm-1:45pm: 

    2pm- 2:45pm: 

    3pm-3:45pm:

    Attendee Check-In @ Hutchison Field

    Welcome Session @ U-Center

    Pre-Health Fair @ Hutchison Field

    Designated Lunch Time

    Workshop Session 1

    Workshop Session 2

    Workshop Session 3

Now that you have a greater understanding of Conference Day, let’s talk about how to prepare to maximize your experience. To make the most of your time, we encourage you to plan ahead using the program. 

  • Pre-Health Fair
  • To maximize your time and get the most out of your conversations, we recommend preparing a list of exhibitors you would like to visit. Because the fair can be busy and some exhibitors may have longer wait times, we encourage visiting both your top choices and new exhibitors. If an exhibitor has a shorter line, you may also have more time for in-depth conversation.  
  • Workshops
  • Each Workshop Session (1, 2, and 3) will have a unique lineup. When the program is released, we recommend reviewing workshop topics and descriptions to determine which interests you most. Be sure to note workshop locations to help plan your route.

    For Interactive Workshops, an interactive ticket is required. Please check the Workshops page and your email for additional details.

Attendees will receive a tote bag that includes a printed program. Exhibitors typically provide flyers and giveaways at their booths. Past attendee favorites have included anatomy posters, pens, and sticky notes. 

Should I prepare questions to ask? If so, what are “good” questions?

That’s a great question - it's great that you're already thinking about preparation. Many admission representatives at the Pre-Health Fair are deans of admission who are eager to meet prospective students. 

Whether you are exploring, preparing to apply, or currently in the application cycle, preparing questions is a great way to learn information you may not find on exhibitor websites. Strong questions can also help demonstrate your interest and preparation. Be sure to introduce yourself first. 

It is okay to ask clarifying questions, such as prerequisites or letters of recommendation. However, we recommend checking the school's website first when possible.

Preparing thoughtful questions takes time, and that's completely normal. It can also also help you reflect on what you hope to gain from attending Pre-Health Conference. Strong questions should help you evalute whether a school is a good fit for you and whether you are a good fit for the school.

For questions about GPA, MCAT, or Test scores, admissions representatives can be helpful resources. However, we recommend starting with questions about their program first when possible. 

  • Examples of strong questions:
  • > I’ve heard your school offers early clinical experiences. Can you share an example?
    On your website, I saw your curriculum includes inter-professional learning. What does that look like in practice? 
    You mentioned students can gain research experience with faculty. Could you explain that process?
    I saw a list of student organizations on your flyer. Which are most active in areas like ___  (e,g., community outreach, hosting events, inviting faculty to speak, etc.).

I’ve never been to Pre-Health Conference. What should I bring?

We are excited to welcome you! Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

  • Reminders and Tips
  • > Pack your own lunch or plan where you will eat
    > Wear comfortable walking shoes (the Pre-Health Fair is outdoors and workshops are across campus).
    > Check the weather - fall mornings are often in the 50s-60s and can warm into the 70s-80s
    > Business casual attire is recommended
    > Bring a refillable water bottle.
    > Bring your list of questions.
    > Bring enthusiasm for a fun and informative day.
  • Conference Ticket Includes
  • -Name Badge
    -Attendee Bag
    -Attendee T-Shirt
    -Printed Program
    -Continental Breakfast
    -Access to Welcome Session, Pre-Health Fair, and workshops (interactive workshops require a ticket)

For more information about the Pre-Health Conference at UC Davis, explore the website and stay connected on our social media.