EXPLORING HEALTHCARE CAREERS THROUGH HOSA
A national club on a local level: introducing Health Occupations S
tudents of America
As students enter high school, they commonly start debating what career path they want to pursue. A course many set their sights on is pre-med, aspiring to work in the medical field in some form. However, how does one know what that path entails? Is it something the student
actually wants to pursue, or do they just like the idea?
That’s where HOSA comes in. HOSA, better known as Health Occupations Students of America, is a new club introduced this year at Mount Pisgah. Part of a nationwide student
organization, HOSA focuses on health science education and leadership, helping students fully
understand what they would be dealing with in this career path and decide if working in the
medical field is really the right choice for them.
What is HOSA?
Founded in 1976, HOSA focuses on preparing and educating students on potential careers in healthcare through leadership, health-related service projects, and competitive events. However, what sets HOSA apart from other health-related clubs is its scale. The club has over 250,000 members worldwide, is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and gives students an incredible outlet to connect with those who share similar passions.
“HOSA gives students the chance to explore real-world healthcare careers, compete in national events, attend conferences/workshops, and connect with other students inside and outside of Pisgah who share the same interests,” explains the club’s faculty sponsor, Emily Stearns.
HOSA at Mount Pisgah
It’s important to note that HOSA connects to Pisgah more deeply than helping students explore their careers. At the organization's center, HOSA values learning, leadership, service and innovation, key values that also shape Mount Pisgah’s culture. This ensures
that the club isn’t just creating potential healthcare workers; it’s fostering well-rounded students while giving them an outlet for their passion.
“A platform like this being added to Mount Pisgah is an incredible opportunity for students to build confidence, leadership skills, and learn how to make a difference in people’s lives. The club teaches responsibility, teamwork, and professionalism while providing valuable
networking and scholarship opportunities. It also helps students develop a sense of purpose and direction for their future,” says E. Stearns.
Inspired by Impact
Alongside E. Stearns, Juniors Grace Stearns, Kiana Patel and Gabe Medebem stepped into HOSA’s leadership roles, inspired by the opportunities they could bring to their peers. “We recognized the need for a healthcare-focused club at our school that would create
numerous opportunities for students,” explains G. Stearns. This year and in the future, the HOSA leaders and members plan to use their passions to better themselves and those around them.
“Some of our goals include developing leadership and teamwork skills, encouraging community service and involvement, preparing students for the future, building confidence and communication skills, and ultimately motivating students to become leaders in the health community through education, collaboration, and experience,” explains Patel.
Additionally, the club plans to participate in HOSA conferences and organize health awareness volunteer opportunities for students. Eventually, they plan to host guest speakers and work with local hospitals and healthcare organizations to extend their impact.
How to Get Involved
Even outside of the student body, you can help strengthen HOSA's impact. If you have any professional connections in healthcare or potential guest speaker/mentor contacts, don’t hesitate to contact Emily Stearns (estearns@mountpisghschool.org). Helping sponsor travel or events and attending any HOSA-related events are smaller ways to support that still significantly impact this new club.
Whether they become doctors, nurses, researchers, or public health leaders, HOSA at MPCS is helping students discover how faith, knowledge, and compassion can work together to heal and inspire.