HOSA (Health Occupations Students of Healthcare) is an international organization that helps shape the next generation of healthcare workers. Each year, high school students explore dozens of medical careers and put their skills to the test through competitions that begin with a written exam and culminate at the HOSA State Leadership Conference in Baton Rouge. Events include dental terminology, nursing assistance, phlebotomy, occupational therapy and family medicine.

Dodson High School became the first school in Winn Parish to offer HOSA last year. For senior Madelyn Cotton, the program has provided a pathway to turn her passion for healthcare into real-world progress toward a nursing career.

“I have always had a passion for the healthcare field, but resources at school to explore the field were scarce,” Cotton said. “When I learned about HOSA through my science teacher, Ms. Casey Thomas, I was excited to dive deeper into my future.”

That opportunity helped Cotton set her sights on becoming a registered nurse. The summer before her senior year, she completed a certified nursing assistant course at a local nursing home, earning her CNA at 17. She now works as a CNA while balancing a full high school schedule.

The certification allowed her to bypass a semester of technical community college toward an associate degree in practical nursing. She also participates in dual enrollment through Northwestern State University, which has given her nearly another semester’s head start.

When she begins college in fall 2026, Cotton will need only about three semesters of trade school to qualify as a licensed practical nurse, with plans to continue bridging into a registered nursing program.

“If it wasn’t for HOSA helping me take the first steps, I wouldn’t be where I am right now,” she said. “I’m excited to see how much I can accomplish this year at the HOSA State Leadership Conference.”