Future health professionals at Utica High School are preparing for the competition of a lifetime as they get ready for the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) regionals on Jan. 31. HOSA regionals consist of a series of medical-based events where students compete against schools all over Michigan. If competitors make top five in their event, they can move on to states, where they compete against schools all over the country. If a student gets top three at states, they can go to internationals, where they compete against schools all over the world.   

Junior Alexia Thomas is going to regionals for the first time. She is competing in the prepared speaking event, where students write a speech on a specific health-related topic. She has been practicing her speech a lot, and it is very excited to compete. 

“I’m very excited to go regionals,” Thomas said. “I hope I have a chance to make it to states because it will be a very cool experience.” 

Junior Nicholas Barno is a second-year HOSA member. Barno competed last year in the sports medicine category, but he did not make it to states. He is hoping this year that he can turn it around and go for gold. 

“Regionals are very competitive, so you need to be prepared,” Barno said. “You must study the book and practice as much as you can.” 

Teacher Rachel Hornak is in charge of many medical classes at Utica High School and is spending her time getting as many HOSA members as prepared as possible for this competition. She has been willing to help students who need feedback and critiques on their events.

Preparing for a HOSA medical competition is more than just studying; it helps students grow academically. Through practice and dedication, students develop confidence and real-world medical skills. The time and effort they put in now prepares them for success at the competition and inspires them to pursue future careers in healthcare.