June 22, 2026
HOSA, or Future Health Professionals, is an international, student-led organization for students interested in careers in medicine, nursing, research, physical therapy, public health, and many other healthcare fields. (https://hosa.org/)
Motivated by their shared interest in healthcare and leadership development, students Madison Zeller and Alexis Teschendorf hit the ground running. They met with school administrators to present their idea and review guidelines, engaged with interested student members, and worked with their teachers and club co-advisors, Stephanie Jensen (NC) and Chellsie Johnson (KW), to learn about the organizational structure needed to build a successful chapter. Throughout the year, they spent hours researching requirements, connecting with HOSA representatives across the nation, and navigating the process of establishing a combined chapter for any interested NCHS and KWHS students.
Focused on gaining experience and building connections, Madison saw the chapter as a meaningful opportunity to get involved. “I personally wanted the opportunity to make connections with current healthcare workers, people who might be in my field, and to volunteer. In the medical field, I feel like experience is the largest part of it, and when picking applicants, they will look at those with more experience and who are driven, and I would like that opportunity, not only for myself but for everyone else who is interested.”
Alexis was excited to develop her leadership skills further while exploring different healthcare careers and connecting with her peers, “I wanted a chance to lead, not to just follow, and to kind of make my own path. By starting this club, we were able to facilitate our needs with everyone else's, so everyone can have opportunities. I am still exploring what form of medicine I am interested in, so I believe HOSA is a good opportunity for me to explore each realm of medicine through competitions, volunteering, and job shadowing.”
The hard work and effort paid off late in the spring semester when the chapter became the first HOSA chapter in the state. Excitement quickly spread across both schools, with approximately 25 students attending the first meeting, showing strong interest in healthcare exploration.
Stephanie Jensen, NCHS co-advisor, said the chapter's early success has been especially meaningful. “I am so proud that we have come together from two schools, KW and NC, to build a foundation for HOSA in Casper and also the state,” she said. “We had three meetings this spring, and watching like-minded students from both schools come together to share their interest in healthcare and community service has been so fun.”
One highlight of the spring meetings was a presentation by Avery Potter, an NC graduate who spoke with members about her journey through medical school. “Not only was it wonderful to listen to her speak, but it was also great to see current students realize that their dreams of becoming a healthcare professional can come true, too,” Jensen said.
As the school year ended, the chapter’s first student leadership team was elected, and students began planning for the upcoming school year. Students brainstormed service projects, educational events, and ways to support the local healthcare community. Working with their club co-advisors, chapter members have begun compiling a list of community organizations and activities where students can potentially volunteer, participate in job shadows, and further explore healthcare careers and interests. Leaders hope these connections will help students gain valuable real-world experience while building relationships with local healthcare professionals. “I am most excited to see students develop and grow their ability to meet with professionals and other students who share their interests. Being able to communicate with others and become more professionally-minded will serve them well in their futures,” shared Jensen.
Showing their genuine interest in serving others, students celebrated their excitement for the future and their success at the final meeting of the school year by honoring the healthcare professionals who inspire them each day with notes of gratitude and thanks.
As the chapter looks ahead, student members are excited about the opportunity for student-driven leadership, collaboration, and learning while exploring future healthcare professions. Through hands-on involvement and community connection, they are excited to build skills that extend beyond the classroom, strengthening their futures and their commitment to educational excellence.