HOSA – Future Health Professionals International Leadership Conference (ILC)

1. Overview

HOSA’s International Leadership Conference is the highlight of the year for every HOSA member and advisor. This event features a range of activities designed to inspire, educate, and recognize participants:

• Competitive Events: Members can participate in events that test leadership, professional, and technical skills, providing hands-on experience and challenges.
• Annual Business Meetings: Voting delegates conduct the official business of HOSA as an international student organization.
• Educational Seminars, Workshops, and Exhibits: Professional partners offer sessions to share information on current healthcare issues, allowing attendees to gain insights directly from industry experts.
• Global Networking Opportunities: Members have the chance to connect with individuals from around the world who share similar career aspirations.
• General Sessions: Exciting large-group sessions bring all HOSA members together for recognition, encouragement, and a shared celebration of achievements.

2. Division

• Middle School (MS): Students in grades 6–8, who are enrolled in a state-approved health science program or planning a career in health professions
• Secondary (SS): Students in grades 9–12, at either the junior high (9th grade) or high school level.
• Postsecondary/Collegiate (PS/C): is composed of undergraduate students enrolled in a state-approved postsecondary or college-level health program. Participants in this division must meet one of the following criteria: they have received a high school diploma (or equivalent), have been out of the continuous education system for two or more years before the current year’s HOSA International Leadership Conference, or are pursuing a health career program leading to a baccalaureate degree.

3. Competitive Events at the ILC

The Competitive Events Program at HOSA’s International Leadership Conference (ILC) offers an extensive lineup of events designed to empower members by refining technical and soft skills. This program encourages participants to deepen their knowledge of health and biomedical sciences while developing valuable career-related competencies.

• Health Science Events cover a wide range of foundational knowledge areas, such as Behavioral Health, Cultural Diversities & Disparities in Healthcare, Medical Law and Ethics, and Pharmacology. Competitions also test proficiency in specialized terminology, health career math, and nutrition.
• Health Professions Events allow members to demonstrate specific career skills in areas like Biotechnology, Dental Science, Phlebotomy, andPhysical Therapy. These events focus on hands-on abilities vital to healthcare professions, from assisting with medical tasks to providing personal care.
• Emergency Preparedness Events focus on readiness and response skills, including CERT Skills, CPR/First Aid, Emergency Medical Technician, and Public Health. These competitions train members in life-saving skills and emergency management essential for healthcare environments.
• Leadership Events emphasize personal development in communication and professionalism. Members compete in activities such as Health Career Photography, Prepared Speaking, and Researched Persuasive Writing and Speaking, where they can showcase their ability to lead, inform, and persuade in healthcare contexts.
• Teamwork Events encourage collaboration and group problem-solving, with competitions like >Biomedical Debate, Community Awareness, and Health Education. Teams work together to find solutions, educate others, and present innovative ideas.