HOSA members that excel in their competitive event do so intentionally. They follow necessary steps to prepare themselves ensuring they will not be surprised and caught off guard. Members interested in doing well in HOSA's competitive events program should follow eight steps in preparing for competition

 

1. Talk with your HOSA chapter advisor and let him/her know that you are highly interest in doing well at the 2017 HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC). Ask him/her for any help he/she is willing to provide. Advisors care about your success and especially if they see that you are willing to put in the time and energy it takes to do well.

 

2. Schedule designated times during the week when you will focus exclusively on preparing for your HOSA event. Success cannot be achieved with one overnight cramming session. Real success is the result of countless hours of preparation. 

 

3. KNOW YOUR GUIDELINES! Failure to do well should not occur because of a technicality. Specifically concentrate on the "General Rules and Regulations" in preparing for the event. 

 

4. STUDY the detailed guidelines and the judge's rating sheet(s) to know the criteria by which you will be evaluated. Memorize the procedures and ensure you are demonstrating proficiency in all areas. 

 

5. Practice, practice, practice and practice some more your event for anyone willing to watching, critique or offer feedback before competing at your state leadership conference and ILC.

 

6. Be sure to speak with other members who participated in the competition previously and gain as much as possible from their experiences.

 

7. Ask your chapter advisor to conduct event simulations in the classroom to allow all members to have an event experience.

 

8. Enjoy your competition because the real benefit of competition is realized in the preparation.

 

Good luck!