is it good to have hosa on resume

2 min read 22-01-2025

Meta Description: Wondering if listing HOSA on your resume will boost your application? This in-depth guide explores the benefits, drawbacks, and best practices for showcasing your HOSA experience to potential employers. Learn how to highlight your achievements and skills to make your resume stand out. Discover how HOSA participation translates into valuable career assets!

HOSA—Future Health Professionals—is a student organization offering leadership, career exploration, and competitive events related to healthcare. But is it truly beneficial to include HOSA on your resume? The answer is a nuanced "yes," but it depends on how you present it. Simply listing "HOSA Member" won't cut it. This guide will help you understand how to leverage your HOSA experience to enhance your resume's impact.

The Value of HOSA on a Resume: More Than Just a Club

While HOSA might seem like just another extracurricular activity, it offers several valuable aspects that translate into marketable skills:

Demonstrating Key Skills Employers Seek

Leadership: HOSA provides ample opportunities for leadership roles, from chapter officers to competition team captains. Highlighting these roles showcases your ability to manage projects, delegate tasks, and motivate others—essential skills in any field.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Many HOSA events are team-based, emphasizing collaboration and communication. Describe specific projects where you successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal.
Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: HOSA competitions often present complex scenarios demanding critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Showcase your analytical abilities by detailing your approach to a challenging competition.
Time Management & Organization: Balancing academics, HOSA activities, and potentially a job demonstrates strong time management and organizational skills.
Commitment & Dedication: Sustained involvement in HOSA showcases your commitment to a field and your dedication to personal and professional growth.

Highlighting Relevant Healthcare Experience

Networking: HOSA provides networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and other students interested in the field. Mention any significant connections you made.
Shadowing & Volunteering: Many HOSA chapters arrange shadowing experiences or volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings. These experiences provide valuable practical exposure and demonstrate your genuine interest in healthcare.
Specialized Skills: Did you participate in events focusing on specific healthcare areas (e.g., medical assisting, public health)? Highlight these skills, demonstrating your knowledge and experience.

How to Effectively Showcase HOSA on Your Resume

Don't just list "HOSA Member." Instead, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to quantify your achievements:

Example:

Instead of: HOSA Member, 2020-2023

Try: HOSA-Future Health Professionals, Chapter Officer (2022-2023); Led a team of 5 in the Medical Terminology competition, resulting in a 2nd place finish at the state level. Successfully organized and managed chapter fundraising events, increasing funds by 30% compared to the previous year.

This approach demonstrates your skills and accomplishments within the context of HOSA.

When HOSA Might Not Be Relevant

HOSA is most valuable on resumes for students pursuing careers in healthcare. If you're applying for a role completely unrelated to healthcare, its relevance might be less significant. Consider the target job and prioritize experiences more directly related to the job description.

Conclusion: Making HOSA Work for You

Including HOSA on your resume can significantly enhance your application, particularly if you effectively highlight your accomplishments and skills using the STAR method. By focusing on quantifiable results and demonstrating relevant skills, you can leverage your HOSA involvement to make a positive impact on potential employers. Remember, it's not just what you did, but how you present it that matters. Use HOSA to demonstrate your dedication, teamwork, and practical skills—all highly valued qualities in the workplace.