At Esperanza College of Eastern University and Esperanza Cyber Charter School, two transformative programs are opening doors, sparking passion, and building futures for students across Philadelphia: HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and the Early College Program.

HOSA is more than just a club, it’s a launchpad for aspiring health professionals. Students in this nationally recognized organization explore careers in healthcare, develop leadership skills, and connect with thousands of like-minded peers from across the country.

For many, it’s their first opportunity to step outside of their comfort zones and into something bigger than themselves. “Going to HOSA was a big step out of my comfort zone—but in all the best ways possible,” says Angelyssa Torres, a 10th-grade student. “I never thought I could meet so many people in one place who were interested in the same things as me. HOSA gave me a sense of belonging I’ve never felt anywhere else.”

Through HOSA, students get the chance to compete in health science events, host major community health fairs, attend national leadership conferences, and even connect with industry professionals. But most importantly, they build confidence. “The experience I had with HOSA has been truly unforgettable,” shares Derek Nunez, an 11th grader. “The bond I’ve built with others in our chapter made me feel more connected than ever. It’s given me some of the best memories of my life.”

But the growth doesn’t stop there. For many students, HOSA is closely tied to their experience in Esperanza’s Early College Program. This is a unique opportunity where high school students can take college-level courses and earn their associate degree while still in high school.

“The Early College Program has changed my life,” says Justin Angeles, a 12th-grade student graduating with an associate degree. “It helped me learn how to advocate for myself, gain volunteering experience, and work with people from all different backgrounds.

 It’s given me a real college experience before even leaving high school.” As a senior representative, I’ve experienced firsthand the impact these programs have had on my own journey. I joined Esperanza Cyber Charter School during my freshman year of high school, and thanks to my early academic success, I was accepted into the dual enrollment program.

By junior year, I took a leap and joined the full-time Early College Program, trading traditional high school for full-time college. In just a few weeks, I’ll graduate with both my high school diploma and an associate’s degree in Health Science, along with 78 college credits, scholarships, and skills that will last a lifetime.

HOSA and the Early College Program have given me more than just academic knowledge. They’ve given me purpose. Through these programs, I’ve:

● Competed for national health science medals

● Networked with over 20,000 students nationwide

● Planned and hosted two health fairs, two conferences, and two symposiums with over 300 students

● Led nutrition classes and built community gardens for diabetes prevention

● Taught K–6 grade students at a week-long STEM summer camp

● Joined Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society

● Served as a student ambassador for the Health Science Program

These experiences have shaped me into a leader, a communicator, and a future healthcare professional. More than anything, they’ve shown me that learning and giving back can go hand-in-hand.

Why health? Because I don’t want a routine job, I want to keep learning, keep growing, and make real change. I’m now pursuing nursing and eventually audiology, so I can serve my community and uplift others, especially young women of color in STEM. At the heart of it all, HOSA and the Early College Program didn’t just teach me about medicine or academics. They taught me about possibility. They reminded me that where you come from doesn’t define where you can go. That your age, your zip code, or your background don’t limit your future your vision does.

Programs like HOSA and the Early College Program are changing lives every day at Esperanza. They don’t just prepare students for the future; they launch them into it.