Vista High School sent 21 mental and social services and medical assisting students to the Arizona Health Occupational Students of America (HOSA) Fall Leadership Conference in Phoenix, Arizona on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022.

“Fall Leadership Conference is a great way to expose kids to the CTSO (Career & Technical Student Organization) and allow them a chance to be around other leaders across the state,” VHS Mental and Social Services teacher Kristina Murray said. “A lot of students get their exposure to the CTSO this way, and this fuels a passion to want to compete at the state and international level, which is always great for the students.”

The event was highlighted by keynote speaker Mike Iskandar, creator of “Time Travel Journeys,” and 40 breakout sessions and workshops, including sessions on topics such as careers in medicine, student opportunities, health information management and much more.

“It was educational and a new experience and I would love to do it again,” Vista HOSA president Trysten Strandberg said. “I feel very excited about going and glad I went. It sets me up to go to the next set of conferences and has prepared me for the competitions that are coming up.”

Students from across Yuma Union High School District attended the conference. 

HOSA is a national career and technical student organization composed of middle school, secondary, and postsecondary/collegiate students, along with professional, alumni, and honorary members. HOSA promotes career opportunities in the health industry and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.