What is Historically Marginalized Student

The professional healthcare admissions process is rife with inequalities, and it is imperative that advisors do not amplify the unequal system. Health professions advisors can use their work with historically marginalized students to overcome systemic racism in pre-health advising and the professional school application process. Health professions advisors must support students who have not historically been supported in pursuing admission to professional healthcare programs. In this chapter, advisors will learn how to engage with those who do not fit the traditional image of a “perfect” candidate for professional healthcare programs. Advisors will learn how historically marginalized students, with non-traditional activities, are in fact strong candidates for their respective professional programs. This chapter also recommends specific language that advisors can use to engage with students who have varied experiences in order to support them on their journey to a professional healthcare career.