The local Advisor is vital to the success of a local HOSA Chapter. The Advisor needs to be aware of the responsibilities this entails, and become familiar with the local, regional, state, and national structure of HOSA. Satisfaction is guaranteed as students grow and develop competence to perform through the integrated and enriching experiences of HOSA membership.

The Advisor is a teacher, a guide/mentor, and a resource who assists HOSA members in relating Chapter activities to their local health science education curriculum and to a future health career.

The attitude, interest, enthusiasm, and commitment exhibited by the local HOSA Chapter Advisor will be crucial as he/she conveys the values of HOSA in the educational program in secondary, adult, postsecondary and collegiate health science education programs. The Advisor, individually and with HOSA Chapter members, must establish and maintain contacts with a variety of individuals and groups in publicizing and securing resources and support. The Advisor’s tasks are many, particularly relating to serving as the motivating force, and may be grouped generally under the following categories:

• Securing administration support
• Organizing the local HOSA Chapter
• Assuring that HOSA concepts and activities are an integral part of the Health Science Education classroom
• Serving as a resource/facilitator for HOSA student members’ planning of Program of Work and implementation of activities
• Effecting leadership development

Rules for HOSA Advisors

1. Never forget that your role is ADVISOR. The best chapter advisors encourage and guide students to do the work of the chapter.
2. HOSA is a “student-led” organization. Make sure the chapter is student- led.
3. If you find yourself working too hard, step back and look at what you are doing. Delegate tasks to HOSA members. You will be surprised at what they can do when given a chance.
4. Point out the connections. It is your responsibility to help students connect their HOSA learning with their future health career.
5. Don’t get discouraged. When members do not do what is expected, remember it isn’t personal.
6. HOSA is designed to be fun. Look around. Make sure all HOSA members get involved.
7. Encourage – don’t pressure. Celebrate the good and use the bad to improve. But, most of all, sit back and watch HOSA members achieve and succeed – the real reward for being a HOSA chapter advisor.

See Also: National HOSA Local Advisor