Supporting Future Central Asian Healthcare Leaders

The Central Asian Pre-Health Association (CAPHA) is a student-led organization dedicated to supporting Central Asian students in the U.S. who aspire to careers in healthcare. Through mentorship, workshops, and leadership opportunities, we provide guidance, resources, and a community that fosters academic and professional growth. Since our founding, CAPHA has grown to over 95 members and regularly hosts guest speakers, featuring successful Central Asian healthcare professionals and scholars. These events allow students to learn from real-world experiences, gain insights into healthcare careers, and build meaningful connections.

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What We Do

Upcoming Events & Meetings

Stay connected with CAPHA! Join our upcoming virtual events, workshops, and mentorship sessions to grow your pre-health journey.

March 7th

EST 11:00 AM

Zoom Sessions

Join our monthly Zoom sessions where healthcare professionals share their journeys and advice for aspiring students.

Meeting ID: 966 343 9551

One-tap mobile & quick join info

One-tap mobile (US)

To join from desktop, click the “Join Meeting” button on this page. From mobile, you can either tap one of the one-tap numbers above or use the Join Meeting button.

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CAPHA Mentorship

(Academic)

CAPHA Mentorship

Join our CAPHA Mentorship sessions to receive one-on-one academic and career guidance from experienced healthcare students and professionals. Whether you need help planning your pre-health pathway or preparing for applications, our mentors are here to support you every step of the way. Reserve your spot below to connect with a mentor and grow your future in healthcare.

Register

Resources & Guidance

Medicine (MD)

Career Path / Journey

  • Undergraduate Education: Complete a bachelor’s degree with pre-med prerequisites (biology, chemistry, physics, math). AAMC recommended courses
  • MCAT Exam: Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
  • Medical School (4 years): 2 years classroom + 2 years clinical rotations in multiple specialties.
  • Residency: 3–7 years specialized hands-on training (surgery, pediatrics, etc.).
  • Licensure: Pass USMLE Steps 1–3 exams.
  • Career: Work in hospitals, clinics, or research; pursue subspecialties.

Resources

Fun Facts

  • Over 120 medical specialties exist — from cardiology to psychiatry.
  • Physicians impact communities and lead research worldwide.
Dentistry (DDS / DMD)

What do dentists do? Dentists prevent, diagnose, and treat oral diseases while improving oral aesthetics and health.

Career Path / Journey

  • Undergraduate Education: Bachelor’s degree with science prerequisites.
  • Dental Admission Test (DAT): Take the DAT exam.
  • Dental School: 4 years combining didactic and clinical experience.
  • Licensure: Pass national and state boards.
  • Career: General or specialized dentistry (orthodontics, pediatrics, surgery).

Resources

Specialties

  • Orthodontics
  • Endodontics
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Periodontics
  • General Dentistry
Optometry (OD)

Optometrists diagnose, manage, and treat eye and vision conditions, playing a vital role in maintaining lifelong eye health.

Career Path

  • Bachelor’s degree with pre-optometry prerequisites.
  • Take the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).
  • Complete 4 years of optometry school.
  • Pass NBEO Exams for licensure.
  • Specialize in pediatrics, ocular disease, or vision therapy.

Resources

Physician Assistant (PA)

PAs provide medical care in collaboration with physicians across specialties, focusing on patient care, diagnostics, and treatment planning.

Career Path

  • Bachelor’s degree with science prerequisites.
  • Healthcare experience through volunteering or scribing.
  • Complete a 2–3 year accredited PA program.
  • Pass the PANCE Exam for licensure.
  • Work in hospitals, clinics, or surgical specialties.

Resources

Leadership Team

Founder - Sevara Abduvalieva

Founder

Sevara Abduvalieva

Sevara Abduvalieva

My name is Sevara, I am a senior at Syracuse University majoring in Biotechnology with a foundation in Chemistry. I’m currently involved in plant microbiology research and various leadership roles on campus. Through hands-on experiences in healthcare and meaningful connections with patients, I discovered my passion for pursuing medicine. Being present for others and working toward positive change has deeply shaped who I am and reflects the values I hope to carry forward as a future physician. Welcome to CAPHA!

Email: abduvalievas36@gmail.com

Co-Founder - Nilufar Sobirova

Co-Founder

Nilufar Sobirova

Nilufar Sobirova

My name is Nilufar Sobirova, and I'm from Samarkand, Uzbekistan. I'm currently a senior at Syracuse University majoring in Biology. Through various clinical and patient care experiences, I've developed a strong passion for dentistry and hope to specialize in this field in the future. I'm excited to collaborate with all of you and look forward to being part of this organization!

Email: nilufars184@gmail.com

Co-Founder - Shahina Alibekova

Co-Founder

Shahina Alibekova

Shahina Alibekova

I'm Shahina, and I'm a junior at Syracuse University studying Biotechnology and Neuroscience. On campus, I've held various leadership positions and been actively involved in mentorship programs that support underserved student populations. Beyond my leadership and mentorship work, I'm currently involved in molecular cell biology research, which has strengthened my curiosity for science. I've also gained valuable experience in patient care through hospital settings, which has strengthened my passion for helping others and reaffirmed my goal of becoming a physician. Through CAPHA, I'm looking forward to getting to know you and supporting you throughout your healthcare journey!

Email: shahina.alibekova@gmail.com

Co-Founder - Khurshida Rakhmatova

Co-Founder

Khurshida Rakhmatova

Khurshida Rakhmatova

I'm Khurshida Rakhmatova, originally from Samarkand, Uzbekistan, and currently a freshman at Syracuse University majoring in Biology. I want to pursue a career in dentistry and help people feel confident in their smiles. Working and volunteering in healthcare settings has strengthened my passion for helping others and inspired me to become more involved in the medical field. I am passionate about continuous learning, community involvement, and building connections with others.

Email: khurshidarakhmatova06@gmail.com

Academic Director - Anvarjon Nematov

Academic Director

Anvarjon Nematov

Anvarjon Nematov

I'm Anvarjon Nematov, a senior at Penn State University in the pre-medical track. Throughout my time at Penn State, I've developed a strong interest in the links of science and patient care, which has been shaped by my research experience in organic chemistry. I plan to pursue a career in dermatology, where I can connect my scientific background with a personal commitment to helping people feel confident and cared for in their own skin.

Email: anvarnematov234@gmail.com

CAPHA Advisors

Pre-Med Advisor - Malika Alamova

Pre-Med Advisor

Malika Alamova

Malika Alamova

I'm Malika, originally from Samarkand, Uzbekistan. I'm currently a second-year medical student at SUNY Downstate. The career of a physician aligns with everything I'm passionate about: leading and advocating for patients, serving underserved communities, and practicing medicine to make a meaningful impact. I'm also excited to serve as a mentor and a resource for students in the organization, supporting them as they navigate their own journeys in medicine.

Email: malika.alamova@downstate.edu

Book Appointment
Pre-PA Advisor - Sabina Alamova

Pre-PA Advisor

Sabina Alamova

Sabina Alamova

I'm Sabina Alamova, originally from Samarkand, Uzbekistan. I'm currently a first-year physician assistant student at SUNY Downstate. I'm passionate about medicine and driven by the desire to bring relief to patients not only through my medical knowledge but also through emotional support and cultural competence. I'm excited to connect with other students in healthcare and build a strong, supportive community. I'm also happy to offer guidance and support to students interested in pursuing a career as physician assistants. Feel free to reach out!

Email: sabina.alamova@downstate.edu

Book Appointment
Pre- Optometry Advisor - Mokhinur Sobirova

Pre-Optometry Advisor

Mokhinur Sobirova

Mokhinur Sobirova

I’m a first-year optometry student at Drexel University. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from Syracuse University. During my undergraduate years, I had the privilege of conducting research and working at Upstate Medical University, where I also had the opportunity to shadow multiple physicians. These experiences helped me discover my passion for eye care. I love that optometry improves people’s vision and quality of life while being a fast-growing, technology-driven field full of learning opportunities. I’m excited to share my experiences, answer questions, and support CAPHA members interested in eye care.

Email: ns3635@drexel.edu

Book Appointment
Pre-Dental Advisor - Sabrina Muradova

Pre-Dental Advisor

Sabrina Muradova

Sabrina Muradova

I’m Sabrina! I was born in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, and I am currently a first-year dental student at Temple University. I’m drawn to dentistry because it blends hands-on, creative work with patient care. I value creating a comfortable, approachable environment where patients feel heard and at ease, and I believe trust and communication are essential to quality healthcare. Outside of dentistry, I enjoy makeup, crafting, reading, and exploring the city. I’m excited to connect with other students in healthcare so please feel free to reach out.

Email: tum91581@temple.edu

Book Appointment

Ambassadors

Ambassador - Marjona Mirzaeva

Ambassador Coordinator

Marjona Mirzaeva

Marjona Mirzaeva

Hi everyone! My name is Marjona Mirzaeva and I am attending the Macaulay Honors College at CUNY Hunter College. I am on the pre-medical track with goals to pursue an MD or an MD/PhD in the future. Currently, I am working in a pancreatic cancer research lab and volunteering in the ER, which have furthered my passions for the research and medical fields. In my free time, I enjoy baking, painting, and playing chess.

Ambassador - Islom Khayitov

Ambassador

Islom Khayitov

Islom Khayitov

Hi everyone! My name is Islomjon Khayitov, and I am attending Ohio University, majoring in Biology, and I am on the pre-medical track to pursue an MD and specialize in Cardiothoracic surgery. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, skiing, and reading books.

Ambassador - Madina Narboeva

Ambassador

Madina Narboeva

Madina Narboeva

I'm Madina Narboeva, and I'm a junior at Thomas Jefferson University majoring in Biotechnology on a pre-med track. I'm actively involved in neuroscience research at my university. I've also had experience working as an EMT where I've had exposure to patient care and the importance of compassion, communication, and teamwork. Together these experiences have shaped my commitment to becoming a physician. I'm happy to be involved in CAPHA, and hope to get to know you all!

Ambassador - Mehribon Karimova

Ambassador

Mehribon Karimova

Mehribon Karimova

Hello! My name is Mehribon Karimova, born in Samarkand, Uzbekistan and I am currently a freshman at Penn State University, majoring in Nursing with aspirations of becoming a Nurse Practitioner. I am deeply passionate about making a positive impact in people’s lives through compassionate care and dedication to the healthcare field. Beyond my studies, I am committed to volunteering and supporting my community, helping others explore opportunities in healthcare and promoting wellness through service, education, and advocacy. I’m honored as an ambassador, and excited to connect with others and share my journey along the way while promoting the many opportunities in the healthcare field.

Email: mehribon001@gmail.com

Ambassador - Ramziddin Mukhiddinov

Ambassador

Ramziddin Mukhiddinov

Ramziddin Mukhiddinov

My name is Ramziddin Mukhiddinov, an Uzbek born in Brooklyn, New York, and currently a freshman at Syracuse University pursuing a degree in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology. As a freshman, I'm currently involved in research focused on advancing neurodegenerative disease studies. My passion for science and medicine drives me to contribute to research and support others in their healthcare journeys. I'm excited to serve this organization to unite students, share resources, and raise awareness about opportunities in healthcare.

Email: ramziddinmukhiddinov1407@gmail.com