As the new school year is kicking off, many students are joining clubs. Langham Creek has many clubs available for students to join based on their interests including HOSA; Health Occupations Students of America.
“Students who join have the opportunity to earn scholarships, participate in competitions and interact with healthcare professionals.” HOSA Advisor Robin Richard said.
The organization aims to prepare students who wish to pursue a career in healthcare. Students will have the opportunity to learn skills such as CPR, First Aid and more. Then students take these skills and have the option to compete in competitions against other schools in the state. Not only will this advance them in their skills, but it will give the student an opportunity to earn health related scholarships.
“I have talked to students in different colleges about their medical programs and how they prepared for it,” Chairperson Ismari Arteaga said. “I even had a few of them offer me help if I ever need it once I get into college.”
Other than preparing students, HOSA connects them. Students attend conferences, hospitals and have the opportunity to talk to those in med school and those who have already graduated. Many students in HOSA are connected with nurses, admission officers and other students. Having a community during an important time of these students’ lives is crucial, and HOSA offers that community.
“I now have both an internship and experience under my belt,” President Alyssa Vanportfleet said. “Along with several certifications and training.”
Like Vanportfleet, students also have the opportunity to be mentored by professionals and shadow doctors and nurses. This allows the students to gain experience and learn new skills. It also gives insight to how working in the medical field is actually like. HOSA definitely advances students in their future career goals.
HOSA is a wonderful program for all students wishing to go into the medical field or for those who want to gain experience. HOSA is available to all students, regardless of if you’re in a medical class or not. HOSA meets once a month in the teaching theater.
