As a child I always had a thirst for knowledge. Because of my curiosity, I have a deep passion for learning and always looked deeper into subjects than an average person would. This habit has stuck with me my entire life and is a core reason why I joined my school’s Future Health Professionals of America (HOSA) club. The club has expanded my knowledge of health sciences while gaining memorable friendships and experiences.

There was a special event that HOSA was attending called the Fall Leadership Conference (FLC), a state level conference. Admittedly, I did not want to attend at first. The club only had seven spots available to attend the conference and I had only recently joined. I always had a tendency to stay away from large groups of people, fearing I would stick out. In my head I went back and forth, this experience can help you decide on a career, but then, you just joined, don’t you think someone else is worthy of this spot. Ultimately, I begrudgingly raised my hand and signed up for the trip.

The day of the trip quickly approached and before I knew it, our group was in a conference room with at least four other large schools. The conference began and my group was tasked with a game to name someone or something who had the title “Dr.” in their name but was not an actual doctor. Immediately everyone came together to brainstorm multiple names, “Dr. Phil!” “No, Doc Oc!” “Dr. Pepper!” my advisor yelled out. I could not help but laugh at something so ridiculous yet so clever. I felt a sense of joy wash over me as we continued to name more random doctors until time was up. At this moment I realized I was surrounded by a large group of like-minded people, all having similar interests as me. It was then when I realized I found a group.

After the seminar, it was time for everyone to attend workshops that explored different professions in the health field. I went to my first workshop and learned about the importance of blood transfusions and donations, along with other students from different schools. I learned that blood donation can come from multiple people in almost every age group yet only a small percentage actually donate blood. I began asking questions as to why the percentage was so low and I would receive a well-thought answer from the presenter. From there other students would chime in about their experiences with blood transfusions; explaining why their families can not donate, or simply asking more questions. Next thing I knew, everyone was engaging in a conversion about blood. No one seemed to be interested, grossed out, or even looking at their phone, it seemed that everyone cared. The workshop soon came to a close and I was moved to another location. However, I was engaged and ready to learn something new.

Overall, the trip was a success. I had gained valuable information about new careers and met some great friends along the way. Finding a group who cares just as much as I do about the health field has boosted my confidence and engagement in learning. It is my interest in the health field and seeing alternative ways to understand people that motivates me to keep learning, rather than for a grade. This is simply one of hundreds of experiences in my life, but it is a small experience that paints into a much larger picture. After all, it is the little things that count.

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