The HELIOS lab is committed to partnered learning by listening to the perspectives of community members, healthcare providers, and future professionals through focus groups, questionnaires, and community forums. We study doctor–patient interactions during medical visits to understand how effective communication about priorities, barriers, and concerns leads to improved health outcomes.

As we reach the midpoint of the year, we are thrilled to celebrate our returning students’ participation and welcome new faces to the HELIOS lab.

Scroll down to see what we’ve been up to!

Welcome New Members!

The HELIOS Lab welcomed 10 new members this Fall Quarter, growing our cohort to 19 student members for the 2025–26 academic year. See the bios of all of our members at theHELIOSlab.org/people

2025-26 Post Baccalaureate Students: Bryan Hernandez, Sunghee Lee, Myan Pham

HELIOS x UC PRIME Pre-Health Pathways Summer Program

In Summer 2025, six HELIOS members participated in the UC PRIME Pathways Research Program, gaining valuable mentorship, research exposure, and insight into careers in health and medicine. The program offers cohort-based learning, professional development workshops, and tailored resources designed to build social capital, expand access, and support students—especially those from first-generation and marginalized backgrounds—on their path toward health professions.

• As part of the 5-week curriculum, students:

  • Gained hands-on experience working with UCI Health patients at the UCI Family Health Centers in Santa Ana and Anaheim, as well as the UCI Medical Center in Orange, through the NIH-funded Mi Propio Camino project.

  • Completed a clinical skills workshop in suturing through UC PRIME Prehealth Pathways.

  • Participated in community outings to equity-focused, community-based organizations, including AltaMed Institute for Health Equity (South Los Angeles) and Santa Ana organizations Latino Health Access, GREEN MPNA, and KidWorks.

  • Harvested fresh produce for a local food distribution program at the Second Harvest Community Farm. 

HELIOS Annual Beach Bonfire

The HELIOS Lab kicked off the academic year with our Annual Beach Bonfire Social 2025, bringing together new and returning members to build connections, enjoy the sunset, and celebrate the start of another exciting year.

HELIOSGIVING 2025

The lab came together to celebrate HELIOSgiving with heartfelt connection, laughter, and amazing food. Members took time to write thank-you letters to loved ones, honoring the people who support us along our journeys. We also joyfully celebrated Tanya’s new baby boy, Santiago, and shared our gratitude with Dr. B through thoughtful thank-you gifts, making the day a beautiful reminder of the love, community, and appreciation that define HELIOS.

HELIOS Microprojects 2025-2026

Our students are leading community-engaged research focused on health equity, cultural responsiveness, and patient-centered care. From breast cancer screening and diabetes management to ADHD experiences and language access, these microprojects highlight the voices, barriers, and strengths within Latinx communities.

We’re proud to support research that doesn’t just study communities — it partners with them to create meaningful change. 💛🌻

Take a sneak peak below or via our Instagram story!