The largest student-led club at SHS, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), has taken it to the next level! Over 40 students advanced to the State Leadership Conference (SLC) after placing 1st, 2nd, or 3rd at the regional competition on January 24th. Students from all across Florida competed from April 16th-19th at the Marriott Orlando World Center. The competition included individuals and teams competitions in events such as HOSA Bowl, Community Awareness, Biomedical Debate, and many more. The Florida HOSA team has come together and organized hands-on workshops, college mentorship, and skill training from professionals in the medical field.
The SLC allows students to demonstrate their abilities through written tests, oral presentations, or hands-on competitions. Allowing students to further develop their leadership skills, many workshops took place run by professionals providing valuable advice. One such workshop included a college guidance session, and students were able to gain valuable advice for preparing for the next chapter of their lives.
Students gathered at the hotel and checked into their rooms promptly before 5:30 on Thursday, April 16, giving them sufficient time to get settled and change into professional attire for their event orientations later in the ballrooms at 6:30 pm. General sessions and awards occurred each day from Thursday to Saturday lasting from 8-11pm. All members are required to attend, and if leaving for whatever reason, will face the consequences. Although it was tiring staying through each session, the HOSA team tried to keep the ambience upbeat with fun songs and speeches. On Friday, organizations and universities gathered for a career expo, and students were able to get some freebies and learn about programs. On the third day, Saturday, most students had a free day taking the opportunity to visit the nearby water slides and pool. The trip concluded on Sunday morning, and competitors shared their final goodbyes.
Aside from competing, students had ample amounts of free time to relax after the stress of their event. Even though it is not allowed for them to go beyond the hotel premises, there are plenty of activities close by such as the waterpark included in the hotel.
Overall, the competition was tough, and only one person, IB junior Pavithra Yerra emerged victorious and was able to advance to ILC.
Another team consisting of IB sophomores made it to the stage as well and placed 4th. Anwesha Joshi, IB sophomore was part of that team and mentioned how her favorite part was “that feeling of getting called to the stage” and “rooming with [her] best friends!” However, all participants gave their best effort with displaying their talent and gaining valuable knowledge for the next competition. Joshi also mentions how she would have to “prepare early because [her team was] always running late to the night conferences.”
Overall, the 2026 HOSA SLC was a success for the Seminole HOSA team! Way to go Noles!