Dr. Heval Kelli was one of the first Kurdish Americans who became a cardiologist in Georgia. As a young Kurdish refugee washing dishes in a restaurant to support his family, Dr. Heval Kelli could not know that many years later he would become a distinguished fellow in cardiology at a university less than one mile from where his journey in the United States began. He experienced the challenges that many students from underserved communities face in their journey in medicine.  Read more about Dr. Kelli and his work.

The program is dedicated to inspiring and guiding Kurdish American students into becoming doctors. All accepted applicants are also eligible for Rising Healthcare award. We also welcome application by non-Kurdish students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Eligibility:
  • Kurdish American pre-med student or non-Kurdish pre-med student from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds.
  • Currently in college or completed undergraduate degree
  • Planning to pursue a career in medicine
  • Complete program application 
  • Complete application essay
  • Willing to work on health education and prevention project
  • 1-4 students will be selected based on applications and selection by Dr. Kelli every year

Benefits
  • Personal mentorship and training by Dr. Kelli.
  • Extensive guidance and professional cultivation toward the goal of becoming a doctor.
  • Access to professional network 
  • Modest financial award of $500-$1000 per fellow
  • Receive professional stethoscope
  • Ability to join the Kurdish American Medical Association
  • Opportunities to volunteer at local clinics and work with clinical partners based on applicant location.
  • Accepted applicants will be assigned the role of Fellow of The Kelli Pre-Medical Leadership Program.
  • List the program in resume. 
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Deadline: October 30
Announcement: December 30