Health knowledge put to the test as HOSA members seek trip to state

Students+visit+juniors+Kanika+Kappalayil%2C+Tanya+Shiramagond%2C+and+Haniah+Bashirs+HOSA+booth+in+the+rotunda+before+school.++

Amna Haque

Students visit juniors Kanika Kappalayil, Tanya Shiramagond, and Haniah Bashir’s HOSA booth in the rotunda before school.

Melody Tavallaee, Staff Reporter

HOSA members are one step away from competing in the state conference as they spend Friday and Saturday at the Irving Convention Center taking part in a various range of health and medicine related competitions in the area competition.

“Events range from tests, such as pathophysiology and medical terminology, and team events that require more interpersonal skills and presentation while also retaining a medical focus, like Public Service Announcement and Prepared Speaking,” officer Brayden Miller said. “There are also recognition events where members can be recognize for exceptional volunteer work and participation in their HOSA chapter along with events such as CPR/First Aid, CERT skills, and Emergency Medical Technician that allow members to showcase their medical experience.”

HOSA co-sponsor Maribeth Thomas believes that the skills students pick up through competition will benefit them with their careers in the future.

“Since it’s a health science related event, it’s centered around all the different medical careers,” Thomas said. “I believe that once you practice hands on, even if you’re not physically practicing with a patient, but you’re practicing the skills before you get with a patient on an actual jobsite, it prepares you to look more professional, be more confident in the skills that you’re doing and be able to interact with others that are doing it and get some advice and helpful hints on how to prepare better.”

Although competition can be a stressful time, junior Elana Breslav looks forward to working alongside her team members with confidence.

“I feel quite nervous for competition, however, I am feeling more confident this year than last because I actually know what to expect now,” Breslav said. “Also, my team is full of really talented people, and that puts me more at ease.”

Ultimately, Miller anticipates that competition will be an enjoyable experience for HOSA members.

“Based on how hard our HOSA area competitors have been working, I expect that we will have many placing in the top 3 of their event and advancing to state,” Miller said. “Besides that, I know we will have a great time at the competition as a HOSA chapter.”