The HOSA Regionals competition took place on Jan. 17, 2026, where Brighton High School students interested in healthcare careers got to test their knowledge on medicine, nursing, public health and other skills related to healthcare professions.
Not only did BHS students compete this year, but they had the added responsibility of hosting the event.
“One of the biggest challenges is the volume of students. We had about 75 [BHS] students participate in over 60 events, and I wanted to make sure each one got the support and resources needed to succeed,” Ms. Brielle Haupt, who runs BHS’s HOSA program alongside the Health Occupations program, said. Additionally, it was up to Haupt to organize the hundreds of students from other schools as well.
At the competition, students had the option of competing in a variety of events testing many different skills, from physical therapy to phlebotomy. Senior Alexis Martin competed in the Healthy Living event, where she researched the effects of caffeine on the body.
“I enjoyed studying the body in a way I haven’t studied it before, and it inspires me to continue learning about the body and pursue a healthcare career,” Martin said.
Through HOSA, Martin said she learned how to speak confidently in front of judges, analyze data and enhance her presentation skills, allowing her to explore health and wellness in a new way.
Haupt, who has been leading BHS’s HOSA branch for several years, said her passion for it comes from her belief in students’ potential.
“Students are the future of medicine,” she said. “Exposing them to opportunities at the high school level gives them a strong foundation to build on in the future.”
To anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in healthcare or medicine, Haupt’s biggest piece of advice is compassion.
“Care for people. Treat each patient as an individual and lead with compassion and heart,” Haupt said.
With motivated students like Martin and strong guidance from Haupt, HOSA continues to inspire future healthcare professionals and make a lasting impact at Brighton High School. Members gain more than just competition experience; they develop a deeper understanding of healthcare. HOSA is laying the groundwork for this next generation of medical practitioners to lead future careers with knowledge, skills and compassion.
