Middleton High School’s HOSA–Future Health Professionals team recently attended the HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC) in Indianapolis, where two members earned top honors. The annual event is an opportunity for HOSA members to compete, learn and network with peers and healthcare professionals from around the world.
The conference includes a competitive events program, where students showcased their knowledge and skills in health science as well as their career readiness. Rising sophomore Eliz Sarlioglu achieved a first-place international finish in Sports Medicine, one of HOSA's most competitive events, and earned the title of international champion.
"My passion for volleyball and my experience navigating sports injuries sparked a curiosity about the human body, leading me to explore sports medicine," Sarlioglu said. "HOSA’s Sports Medicine event felt like the perfect fit for my interests. I am incredibly grateful for our chapter’s advisors and my teammates, and I am proud to represent Middleton and Wisconsin HOSA as an international champion through my consistency and passion for this field!"
In addition, rising senior Tanvi Kulkarni earned a top 10 international placement in the Family Medicine Career Knowledge Test, a rigorous event that assesses competitors' understanding of family medicine, patient care, medical terminology, and healthcare concepts.
"HOSA ILC is much more than a competition," said Kulkarni. "From learning from healthcare leaders and participating in workshops to meeting students from around the world through pin trading and networking events, every experience challenged me to grow as a leader and strengthened my passion for pursuing a career in healthcare."
Kulkarni also serves as the Wisconsin HOSA State Vice President of Public Relations Tanvi, and rising senior Diya Chilukuri is the Wisconsin HOSA State Secretary. As state officers, they help promote Wisconsin HOSA; support members throughout the conference; and demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and school spirit.
In addition to competing, Middleton High School’s 20 HOSA team members participated in professional development opportunities, including a fireside chat with former U.S. Surgeons General to gain insight into leadership, public health, and careers in healthcare. Students also took part in career-building workshops. They connected with healthcare sponsors, employers, universities, and nonprofit organizations to learn about educational pathways, career opportunities, emerging healthcare initiatives, and how they can make an impact in health professions.
Team members said the conference brought to life several Mindsets and Foundations from A Cardinal’s Journey. Students demonstrated a growth mindset, for example, by stepping outside their comfort zones to compete against top students, strengthening their career readiness, and exploring healthcare careers.
Congratulations to Middleton High School’s HOSA team members for representing the school on an international stage!