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PHASN SUMMER JOURNALIssue No. 1A U G U S T 2 0 2 6Volume № 1 THE NEXT GENERATIONOlivia Xu, Sara Guedhami, Sebastian Kassza, Lin Xu, Jennie Lee, Shivani Lolla
TABLE OF CONTENTSPHASN SUMMER JOURNAL 1.LETTERS FROM THE EDITORS 2.MEET THE TEAM 3.FEATURE ARTICLE 4.PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE BRIEF 5.GLOBAL HEALTH ANALYSIS 6.PROFESSIONAL INTERVIEW 7.COMMUNITY VOICES 8.RESOURCES 9.ABOUT PHASN
LETTERS FROM THE EDITORSPHASN SUMMER JOURNALDear Readers, Welcome to the inaugural issue of the PHASN Journal. For our first issue, we chose the theme "The Next Generation.” This theme was chosen to showcase the growing influence of youth in shaping the future of healthcare through advocacy, education, innovation, and research. The goal of this issue is to inform and inspire. We hope these pages encourage readers to be more informed about youth involvement in healthcare and recognize that meaningful change can begin at any age. On behalf of the entire PHASN team, thank you for joining us for this first issue. We hope that the words and stories shared within these pages remind you that together, we can help shape the future of healthcare at any age. Best regards, Olivia Xu Founder & Executive Director Public Health Advocacy & Support Network (PHASN)
LETTERS FROM THE EDITORSPHASN SUMMER JOURNALDear Readers, Thank you for taking the time to read our first issue of the PHASN Journal. When discussing healthcare, we typically focus on established professionals and organizations. However, young people are increasingly playing an important role in defining the future of healthcare through research, advocacy, education, and innovation. This article explores how youth are making meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. Their efforts demonstrate that age is not a barrier to making change and that today’s students are already helping address important healthcare challenges. The theme of our first issue, “The Next Generation,” celebrates the creativity, determination, and leadership of young people who are actively working to create a lasting impact on healthcare in their communities and around the world. This article highlights the importance of youth involvement in healthcare and we hope to inspire readers to recognize the impact that young voices have. Best, Sara Guedhami Co-President & Editor/Feature Article Author Public Health Advocacy & Support Network (PHASN)
MEET THE TEAMPHASN SUMMER JOURNAL Olivia Xu Editor, Interviewer, Public Issue Brief Author Sara Guedhami Feature Article Author Sebastian Kassza Global Analysis Author Lin Xu Social Media Manager Jennie Lee Graphic Designer Shivani Lolla Community Voices Author
THE NEXT GENERATION OF HEALTHCARE: HOW YOUTH ARE SHAPING THE FUTUREBy Sara Guedhami When people think about healthcare leaders, they often imagine physicians, researchers, policymakers, or public health officials. Rarely do they picture teenagers. However, across the world, young people are increasingly making meaningful contributions to healthcare through research, advocacy, education, and innovation. Not waiting until adulthood to create change, today's youth are proving that age does not define impact. The healthcare challenges facing society are complex. From mental health crises and healthcare inequities to emerging diseases and technological advancements, communities require fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Young people bring exactly that. Having grown up in a rapidly changing world shaped by technology, social media, and global connectivity, this generation possesses unique tools and opportunities to address healthcare issues in ways previous generations could not.PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL A New Era of Youth Involvement Historically, young people were often viewed merely as recipients of healthcare services rather than active participants in shaping healthcare systems. Decisions regarding medicine, public health, and healthcare policy were largely left to adults with years of education and professional experience. While expertise remains crucial, the role of youth in healthcare has expanded significantly over the past decade. Today’s students have exceptional access to information and educational resources. Through online courses, scientific journals, conferences, and various social media platforms, young people can learn about complex healthcare issues from anywhere in the world. his increased accessibility has enabled students to become informed advocates and contributors long before entering professional careers. FEATURE ARTICLE
PHASN SUMMER JOURNALAdditionally, many healthcare challenges impact younger generations directly. Increasing rates of anxiety and depression, concerns about healthcare accessibility, environmental health risks, and the long-term effects of global health crises have motivated many students to become involved in finding solutions. Rather than simply discussing these problems, young people are increasingly taking action to address them. Youth in Scientific Research One of the most significant ways youth are shaping healthcare is through scientific research. Across high schools, universities, and independent research programs, students are investigating topics that address real-world medical and public health challenges. Student researchers have explored areas such as cancer biology, infectious diseases, genetics, nutrition, environmental health, and mental health interventions. Through science fairs and mentorship programs, many students gain firsthand experience designing experiments, analyzing data, and communicating scientific findings. These experiences not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals and researchers. Research allows students to approach problems with creativity and curiosity. Because they often enter projects without preconceived assumptions, young researchers may identify novel approaches to longstanding challenges. While not every project leads to a groundbreaking discovery, each investigation contributes to a broader culture of scientific inquiry and innovation. Equally important is the development of critical thinking skills. Scientific research teaches students how to evaluate evidence, question assumptions, and make decisions based on data rather than opinion. These skills are essential not only in medicine but also in public health leadership and healthcare policy. Advocacy and Public Awareness Research is only one way through which youth influence healthcare. Advocacy has become another powerful tool for change. Young advocates have played an increasingly visible role in raising awareness about issues ranging from mental health and substance abuse prevention to health equity and disease education. Through nonprofit organizations, school clubs, community initiatives, and social media campaigns, students are reaching audiences that traditional healthcare messaging sometimes struggles to engage. Mental health advocacy provides a particularly strong example. Many young people have worked to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness by encouraging open conversations about anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional well-being. Peer-led initiatives often create environments FEATURE ARTICLE
PHASN SUMMER JOURNALwhere students feel more comfortable discussing challenges and seeking support. Youth advocates have also contributed to public health education efforts by promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging preventive care, and sharing evidence-based information. Because students frequently communicate with their peers, they can help make healthcare information more relatable and accessible. Advocacy demonstrates that meaningful contributions to healthcare do not always require advanced degrees or professional titles. Sometimes, raising awareness and encouraging informed decision- making can have a substantial impact on community health. Technology and Innovation Few generations have grown up with technology as integrated into daily life as today's youth. As a result, many young people are uniquely positioned to use technological tools to improve healthcare education, communication, and accessibility. Students have developed health-focused websites, educational platforms, and mobile applications designed to help individuals better understand medical conditions and healthy behaviors. Others have explored how artificial intelligence can assist with disease detection, data analysis, and health education. Telemedicine and digital health technologies have further highlighted the importance of technological innovation. The ability to connect patients with healthcare providers remotely has expanded access to care for many individuals, particularly those living in rural or underserved areas. Young innovators continue to explore ways to improve these systems and make healthcare more efficient and accessible. Technology also enables rapid information sharing. Public health organizations can now reach millions of individuals through digital platforms, while young content creators can use social media to educate audiences about healthcare topics. When used responsibly, these tools can support healthier and more informed communities. Addressing Health Equity Another major area where youth are making a difference is health equity. Health equity refers to ensuring that all individuals have fair opportunities to achieve their best possible health, regardless of factors such as socioeconomic status, race, geographic location, or background. FEATURE ARTICLE
PHASN SUMMER JOURNALNumerous students have become heavily involved in community service initiatives that address disparities in healthcare access. These efforts include organizing health education programs, collecting hygiene supplies, helping food assistance programs, and partnering with local organizations to support community needs. Young people often recognize health inequities within their own communities and are motivated to create change. By listening to community members, collaborating with local leaders, and advocating for underserved populations, youth can contribute to a more equitable healthcare system. Addressing health equity requires both compassion and action. Through volunteerism and advocacy, students are helping ensure that healthcare discussions include the voices and experiences of diverse populations. The Importance of Service Healthcare is ultimately centered on helping people. For many young individuals, service serves as an introduction to healthcare involvement. Volunteer opportunities at hospitals, clinics, nonprofit organizations, and community health events allow students to witness healthcare challenges firsthand. These experiences expose young people to the realities of patient care while fostering empathy, communication skills, and leadership. Community service also helps students understand that healthcare extends beyond hospitals and doctor's offices. Public health, education, environmental factors, nutrition, and social support systems all play important roles in determining health outcomes. By serving their communities, young people develop a deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of health and well-being. FEATURE ARTICLE
PHASN SUMMER JOURNALInvesting in the Future The future of healthcare depends on the next generation of leaders, innovators, researchers, and advocates. By investing in youth through education, mentorship, research opportunities, and community engagement, society can cultivate a healthcare workforce prepared to address future challenges. Schools, healthcare institutions, universities, and community organizations all play important roles in supporting young people. When students are given access to resources and opportunities, they can transform curiosity into action and ideas into meaningful solutions. Importantly, youth involvement benefits not only the students themselves but also the communities they serve. Fresh perspectives often inspire innovative approaches to complex problems, while youth-led initiatives can engage populations that traditional methods may overlook. Challenges Facing Young Changemakers Despite their accomplishments, young people often face obstacles when pursuing healthcare initiatives. Access to mentorship, research opportunities, funding, and professional networks can be limited, particularly for students from underserved communities. Additionally, age-related stereotypes may lead some individuals to underestimate the capabilities of young leaders. Students may encounter skepticism when presenting new ideas or proposing solutions to healthcare challenges. Balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular commitments can present another challenge. Many student leaders dedicate significant time to research projects, volunteer work, advocacy efforts, and organizational leadership while simultaneously managing coursework and personal responsibilities. However, these challenges have not prevented young people from making meaningful contributions. Instead, they highlight the importance of providing supportive environments where students can develop their skills and pursue their interests. FEATURE ARTICLE
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCAREBy Olivia Xu What is the issue? Around the world, healthcare is facing significant issues. These include physician shortages, rising costs, increasing health concerns, and a need for a more efficient system. Artificial intelligence (AI) is growing to be an extremely useful tool to address these challenges by assisting professionals in diagnosing diseases, analyzing data, predicting health challenges, and improving biotechnology. Researchers have already found that AI can recommend mutations to significantly improve antibodies and other proteins, making protein engineering more efficient. However, even though AI has potential, its use raises important questions about data privacy, transparency, and ethicality. Who is affected? AI can benefit nearly everyone. Patients can receive faster diagnoses and more personalized care, while healthcare professionals can use it to improve decision-making. Researchers can use AI to identify patterns and speed up drug and vaccine discoveries. However, while it can benefit nearly everyone, organizations, policymakers, and technology developers must work together to ensure AI systems are accurate, ethical, and accessible to diverse populations.PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL Current Statistics Nearly 90% of healthcare executives report that AI is a strategic priority for their organizations. AI has demonstrated the ability to detect certain diseases, including some cancers, with accuracy comparable to or exceeding human experts in specific settings. The global AI healthcare market is projected to grow rapidly over the next decade as hospitals, clinics, and research institutions continue adopting AI-powered technologies. PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE BRIEF
Potential Solutions To maximize AI's benefits, healthcare systems should invest in responsible AI development, strengthen data privacy protections, reduce algorithmic bias, and train healthcare professionals to effectively use AI tools. Collaboration among clinicians, engineers, policymakers, and patients will be essential to ensure AI improves healthcare while maintaining trust, safety, and equity.PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL Looking Ahead The next generation of healthcare will likely combine human expertise with intelligent technology. Rather than creating completely automated processes, augmented technology or products may be valuable. Rather than replacing healthcare professionals, AI can complement them—helping clinicians make faster decisions, researchers develop new therapies, and patients receive more personalized, preventive care. By embracing AI and approaching the technology smartly, the next generation can utilize it effectively to create a better and more efficient system for everyone. PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE BRIEF
A GLOBAL ANALYSIS OF YOUTH-DRIVEN HEALTH INITIATIVESBy Sebastian Kassza In 2019, roughly 12.8% of the United States population comprised adolescents ages 10-19 years old. Of this population, one in five adolescents suffered from mental illness, with most only receiving treatment only upon attempted suicide (Grubbs, 2024; Stewart, 2022). Grubbs (2024), along with Katzman, Bankah, and Sawyer (2025) and Patton et al. (2016), identify a clear lack in adolescent advocacy in the United States, despite 33% of these adolescents living below twice the federal poverty line. Ambe-Cohen et al. (2025) report a similar development in Mexico, as its population faced an increase in the suicide rate of 15-29 year olds from 8.3 to 10.4 per 100,000 individuals, while one in four Mexican adults suffer from one or more mental conditons. These rates increased in poorer states, such as Chiapas, Mexico, where over 20% of adolescents aged 14-20 living in rural communities reported symptoms of anxiety, and 30% reported symptoms of depression. As a function of increasing costs of living and stagnant wages, Nigeria’s poverty rates are rising: as of 2022, 47.4% of Nigerian children lived in households below the poverty line of ₦275.5 ($1.9) per day, while 24.4% of Nigerian children lived in extreme poverty (Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and United Nations Children’s Fund Nigeria, 2024). While the economic situations of Nigeria, Mexico, and the United States differ drastically, all three have a sizable adolescent population that lives below the federal poverty line and as a result, suffer from a lack of adequate healthcare. Dominic Weinberg (2023), an expert in youth policy and inequalities, finds adolescents in lower socio-economic strata have more mental illness than their wealthier counterparts. Therefore, people who struggle economically are more likely to have untreated mental illnesses or other health ailments than those who do not. The likelihood of an untreated behavioral health condition is increased as the majority of people with lower socio-economic statuses are in single-parent households. Mir Ali (2018), a health economist studying adolescent behavioral health issues, applies Weinberg’s findings to single-parent families, stating “When single mothers were uninsured, their…children were less likely to utilize… behavioral health services” (p.1). Thus, when adolescents cannot afford mental healthcare, their conditions may progress to suicide. Economically disadvantaged adolescents are less equipped to start their own initiatives in addressing child and adolescent healthcare treatment, meaning that the individuals who need the most care often cannot address such issues due to impoverishment. However, affordable treatment options implemented at the state level will likely increase adolescent’s usage of mental healthcare services, and increasing availability to underprivileged families with preventative care, would overall reduce the suicide rate. Mental healthcare affordability is a societal issue because mental illnesses disproportionately affect poorer communities, as they cannot seek treatment because of affordability. Increasing mental healthcare funding raises accessibility to the patient and lowers adolescent suicide rates by providing adequate care.PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL GLOBAL HEALTH ANALYSIS
Healthcare is a commodity, sold only to the highest bidder. Of course, privatizing healthcare drives efficiency and innovation in well-known companies such as Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Merck & Co., and without it, American corporate interests would not be realized. Yet, there is a disillusionment with the capitalist brand of healthcare. The patient paradox, as recognized by McKee and Stuckler (2012), emphasizes an inverse correlation between those who need healthcare and those who receive it; the less sick one is, the more one is likely to receive healthcare. This correlation suffers from a third variable: wealth. The wealthier one is, the less likely one is to be sick, however, the more likely one is to receive a pharmaceutical drug. A healthcare market that only serves to generate profit focuses only on those who could afford healthcare and those who could not, inadvertently creating a systematic problem with how healthcare is perceived and received. Customers are dissatisfied with the lack of health equity and the cession of government control in favor of corporate greed because those suffering from acute or life-threatening illnesses do not receive the quality care they need. A meta-analysis conducted by Alayed et al. (2024) finds healthcare privatization correlates with a decrease in accessibility to and quality of care, especially for vulnerable global populations. Further, American eligibility for Medicaid, the premier government-funded healthcare program, will decrease as a function of the prohibitory “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” signed into public law on July 4, 2025. The “Big, Beautiful Bill,” as described by current United States president, Donald Trump, increases employment requirements for all users within ages 19-64 and limits states’ use of provider taxes to fund Medicaid, decreasing its funding and accessibility within most states (Buettgens, 2026).PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL These individuals who need healthcare but cannot work must enroll in private healthcare insurance, which costs significantly more; Allen et al. (2021) performed a cross-sectional study to compare the costs of subsidized private healthcare, or marketplace healthcare, to Medicaid, finding total costs to be 83% higher with marketplace coverage, and out-of-pocket costs for users to be ten times higher. These newly ineligible Medicaid users may join the existing population of Americans who simply do not seek healthcare as a result of the prohibitive systems in place. A CDC survey of 9,407 households conducted by Ng, Adjaye-Gbewongyo, and Dahlhamer (2024) found that 21.7% of participants decided not to seek healthcare because they were too busy to receive care from a provider or because they were unable to access a provider when needed. The lack of mental healthcare is caused by a \lack of funding, decreasing affordability and availability, and reducing access to those who cannot afford the treatment they so often require. GLOBAL HEALTH ANALYSIS
Suresh Math (2019), a Professor of Psychiatry, claims that Indian mental health services do not meet the current demand for care, as the treatment gap for most mental disorders ranges between 70%-92%. The median number of psychiatrists per 100,000 people is 0.3, producing a high number of untreated patients. India’s Mental Healthcare Act of 2017, however, reinforces the right to access mental healthcare for people afflicted with mental illness, mandating the establishment of mental health services throughout India (Math, 2019). Jayashree Parida (2022), a scientist at the National Institute of Science and Research, agrees with Math, claiming elevated suicide rates strain Indian mental healthcare and preventative strategies to reduce suicide risk factors can mitigate adolescent suicide rates.PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL Economic status affects accessibility to mental healthcare because it is dependent on the amount of money one has. Ali (2018), reports that “Adolescents living in single-mother households are more likely to have behavioral health conditions, but…less likely to utilize… behavioral services,” (p.1). Over 50% of single-mother households are low-income and lack health insurance. Weinberg establishes the foundation for Ali’s argument, (2023) claiming that “adolescents with higher socio- economic status (SES) have fewer mental health problems than their peers with lower SES” (p.1)., Those with higher SES have less economic stress, while those with lower SES, including those within single-parent households who cannot afford care, attribute to more money-related issues. Thus, increasing their amount of stress (Weinberg, 2023; Ali, 2018). Therefore, one’s economic status contributes to their mental well-being, driving them positively or negatively depending on their economic trajectory and access to mental health services. Jaen-Varas (2019), a doctor of Psychiatry at the University of Sao Paulo, applies Weinberg’s findings to large cities in Brazil, arguing that “individuals who live in large urban centers are…exposed to risks and hazards regarding physical and mental health problems” (p.1). Specifically, socio-economic status elevates the suicide rate in urban centers because the highest suicide rate rests with the impoverished and unemployed, neither of which can afford mental healthcare. Socio-economic status thus affects one’s mental health, as poverty is not only inherently stress-inducing, but also impedes affordability of care. Since people in lower- income strata need mental healthcare the most, they should thus be prioritized for cost-friendly access to care. GLOBAL HEALTH ANALYSIS
A majority of mental illnesses are traced to people with lower socio- economic status. Adolescent suicide rates, especially among the middle to lower classes, can be reduced by introducing affordable mental healthcare, increasing the availability and affordability of existing mental healthcare programs, and utilizing new mental healthcare delivery methods. Danuta Wasserman (2021), a Professor of Psychiatry and Suicidology at the Karolinska Institute, reports that adolescent well-being increases through community unification and prevention, both significant factors in adolescent development. A nourishing community improves an adolescent’s environment, decreasing the likelihood of suicide. Wasserman’s findings are vital because they prove preventative mental healthcare’s effects on decreasing mental healthcare usage and suicide rates overall. We must look into creating more affordable mental healthcare options. A country's future depends on adolescents, thus their mental health must contain options and the ability to strengthen the country.PHASN SUMMER JOURNAL GLOBAL HEALTH ANALYSIS
INTERVIEWPHASN SUMMER JOURNAL INTERVIEW Q&A with Amanda de Leon, Conducted by Olivia Xu Amanda de Leon is the founder of TEDxFiveForks Youth, Upstate South Carolina's first TEDx Youth event, where she works to amplify youth voices and foster the next generation of leaders. A passionate advocate for community service and youth empowerment, she has led initiatives through the American Red Cross, Greenville County Youth Board, and YMCA Youth in Government. She serves as the founder of the South Carolina Red Cross Youth Council and she is an active volunteer. Amanda is an incoming National Scholar at the Clemson University Honors College and continues to inspire young people to create meaningful change in their communities. Q: What public health issues do you believe the next generation should prioritize most, and why? A: Equitable resource allocation. Even in my brief time working with the Red Cross of South Carolina, I’ve seen how vital it is that resources are distributed efficiently and equitably. When given proper aid, a population can overcome almost any disaster or disease. But when lacking aid, the population is left to struggle, their survival threatened. The next generation should prioritize caring for those who need it most, ensuring all of humanity has a chance at a speedy recovery when facing disaster. Q: How do you think young people can make a meaningful impact on public health in their communities? A: Start acting, stop waiting. I believe that most youth genuinely desire to have an impact on those around them. The main thing that stops us is a lack of belief or overthinking. Anyone can talk about their mission to change the world; anyone can discuss their ideas and plans. However, real change only comes when you begin. Start that project. Reach out to that organization. Volunteer. Like Sabrina Lin says in her TEDxFiveForks Youth talk, there is no such thing as “waiting until you’re older.”
PHASN SUMMER JOURNALINTERVIEW Q: What qualities do you believe are most important for the next generation of public health leaders? A: Authenticity and empathy. It is a rare—and thus all the more valuable—thing to truly care about someone else’s situation. To use your time and energy to benefit another person. To simply care. Especially in a field like public health (where your job is literally to care for others), it is vital for youth to understand that a career in health is not about the salary or the prestige. It’s about making your life’s purpose one that is selfless. When a leader goes into public health with the intention of earning money or having an impressive job, they can only make it so far before they burnout. Q: Through your work with the Red Cross, what have you learned about the importance of community health and emergency preparedness? A: In 2024, my school’s Red Cross Club and I organized a canned food drive. We were going to collect donations from our Lower School (primer-4th grade) and give them to pantries for veterans. When starting the project, I thought we would collect maybe 100-200 cans. I would have been happy with just 50. But after one month, the Lower School donated over 2,600 cans. Our project—one simple idea—became the largest Red Cross canned food drive in our state. Through this mass act of kindness (and the many others I’ve experienced through the Red Cross), I’ve learned how powerful community truly is. When a community of people put their mind to something, they have the power to massively uplift the health of other communities. Q: Has there been a particular experience that changed the way you think about health equity or access to care? A: Last December, I was hospitalized due to a spontaneous lung collapse. For the two weeks that I was in hospitals, I was very lucky to have received excellent care. The staff and doctors were attentive to all my concerns and were able to decide and execute the appropriate solutions according to my situation. With the quality of care I received, I was able to recover from three separate lung collapses fully. However, not everyone has access to quality healthcare or can afford to receive it. If I didn’t receive that quality of care, I may still be suffering from a collapsed lung to this day. At any moment, anyone could undergo a critical medical disaster, but not everyone can afford to recover from it. That’s why health equity and access should be considered absolute priorities. Q: What public health challenge do you feel is often overlooked or underestimated? A: Healthcare access in rural communities. When someone undergoes a disaster or injury, they only have a short window of time until the problem becomes absolutely critical. But when you combine limited time with a lengthy distance to the nearest hospital, you get a problem that threatens the lives of millions. Rural communities are often overlooked when it comes to healthcare, and the obstacle of distance—like affordability—is an obstacle that must be addressed. Q: What public health challenge do you feel is often overlooked or underestimated? A: Address problems at the root rather than just with half-measures. Populations become vulnerable due to deep-rooted problems within our systems (governmental or even within
PHASN SUMMER JOURNALINTERVIEW specific institutions). Only throwing half-measures at a problem will just postpone the consequence. Real impact comes with thoughtful, systemic solutions. Q: If you could leave the next generation of public health advocates with one message, what would it be? A: Always remind yourself of your purpose. When I get burnt out, I am caught up believing that my work is tiring and unfruitful. But when I remind myself why I do what I do and who it’s for, I no longer see it as work; I see it as my legacy. Public health is a difficult field, but it is one of the most rewarding and impactful. If you ever get caught up in the stress of your job, remember that your work is important. Remember who you’re doing this for.
When I joined HOSA, I was looking for a way to explore my interest in healthcare. I expected to get the chance to learn more about medicine and compete in events. However, I didn’t realize how much this organization would also shape me as a leader and person. As I got more involved, I had the chance to meet students across South Carolina who shared the same passions and wanted to make a difference in healthcare. Every experience in HOSA, whether it was the competition, conferences, or networking with other students, pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow. What I admire about HOSA is that it created a community where students encourage each other to succeed, which is one of the biggest reasons I decided to run for SC HOSA State Officer. I wanted the opportunity to give back to an organization that gave me so many opportunities and encourage students who are just beginning their healthcare journeys to join. I aspire to help other students find the same confidence and sense of belonging I did and be someone they turn to for encouragement, support, and inspiration. Leadership isn’t about having a title. Leadership means patience, empathy, and being able to meet people where they are. One of the highlights of this journey was attending HOSA’s International Leadership Conference. Meeting thousands of students from around the world who shared an immense passion for healthcare reminded me that the future of medicine relies on collaboration, curiosity, and service. It showed me how much students can accomplish when they’re allowed to lead. As a state officer, I hope to help make HOSA an organization where every member feels welcomed and, even more importantly, I want students to leave HOSA with more than medals or awards. I want them to leave with confidence in themselves and excited about the future they’re building. My state officer term might’ve just begun, but HOSA has already given me so much more than I expected. COMMUNITY VOICESPHASN SUMMER JOURNALCOMMUNITY VOICES A message from Sri Dandu Sri Dandu serves as a South Carolina HOSA State Officer as the State Reporter. Passionate about healthcare and student leadership, she is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment where members can grow in confidence, develop leadership skills, and explore careers in medicine. Through experiences ranging from competitive events to HOSA's International Leadership Conference, Sri has seen firsthand the power of collaboration and mentorship, and she hopes to inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders to lead with empathy, curiosity, and service.i love sri so much
THE NEXT GENERATION