November 2024
By Leslie Sanchez
On September 3, 2024, at KIPP Austin Collegiate, a major event took place that marked a new beginning for the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) team. New members were introduced, all with passionate futures and eager to start a new chapter.
The event, held on a Tuesday afternoon, was organized by fellow HOSA members and nursing teacher Brittany Love, with the assistance of some staff members. The try-outs consisted of a series of procedures, with a serious and intense atmosphere, providing a new space for individuals to come together and share their interests and thoughts about the event. Excitement and nerves filled the room throughout the day, as everyone eagerly awaited their assigned tasks to show the judges (Mr. Nakamura, Mrs. Burke, Mr. Ramirez, and Mr. Truong) their skills in taking the apical pulse (heart rate) of a patient or caring for a patient’s basic needs.
Throughout the try-outs, there were many people who shared a similar interest in their futures. President of HOSA, Roxana Cobos-Antonio, stated, “I thought it was really cool to see underclassmen who shared the same interests as me.”
The team could best be described as driven, despite each member having different roles. They were motivated and responsible when it came to completing tasks.
As HOSA has grown at KAC, the interest in joining HOSA has increased, which can be beneficial for people’s futures. Social Media Manager, Krysten Aranda, believes that this program would be a major benefit, especially when it comes to interacting with real nurses and individuals with a major in health.
HOSA has been a club since last school year, starting in October 2023. It was a new addition to the clubs at KAC, created for students with a passion for health science and a desire to pursue a career in the field of health. Anyone could join the club last year, and it was beneficial for many since there were no requirements to be a part of the team. The first year was simple for HOSA, as everyone was still getting to know how the club worked and the benefits it provided for students’ futures. The club had a small number of members in its first year, but the team still made the best of it by promoting the club and sharing the fun experiences that came with competing. Mrs. Love and HOSA members encouraged students interested in a healthcare major to join the club the following year and give it a try.
HOSA now has over 30 members, and everyone accepted is proud of their success in mastering their tasks. The team shares their goals and beliefs in health, encouraging each other towards their best futures. HOSA still has many experiences to overcome, but with the support of the team, it will become an amazing club in no time.
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