HOYA 2 Feb. Article
Launch the media gallery 1 player
January was an active month for HOYA 2 students as they continued developing advanced knowledge and leadership skills.
Students began work on their Body Systems Capstone Project, an in-depth, multi-part project that integrates anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. The capstone is organized by body systems, beginning with the muscular and skeletal systems as separate sections. Students examine structure and function, identify common disorders and injuries, apply appropriate medical terminology, and connect their learning to healthcare careers and clinical practice. This project will continue to build throughout the semester as additional body systems are introduced.
We initiated some hands-on learning with the first dissection lab using chicken leg quarters, allowing students to identify muscles, bones, cartilage, tendons, and bone marrow while reinforcing terminology and anatomical relationships.
Several HOYA 2 students also demonstrated leadership by assisting with sophomore tours, offering firsthand insight into the expectations and opportunities within the HOYA program.
To reinforce terminology mastery, students participated in several more medical terminology Jenga review games, supporting collaboration and recall of key concepts. Students have also begun working through healthcare case studies, with an emphasis on proper documentation and professional language aligned with clinical expectations.
February will continue with expanded learning and leadership opportunities. Students will move forward with their capstone body systems with cardiac studies next on their agenda, including a sheep heart dissection examining heart anatomy and blood flow. These experiences continue to reflect the increasing rigor and independence expected of HOYA 2 students.
Many students are celebrating important milestones, with several being accepted into their selected colleges and others visiting campuses as they plan next steps.
HOYA 2 students will assist with the CareerTEC Mall of Life, a financial literacy and life-skills simulation for sixth- and seventh-grade students, strengthening leadership, communication, and mentoring skills. HOYA 2 students will also speak with HOYA 1 students about the benefits of continuing into the second-year program, including advanced coursework, leadership development, and career preparation.