E- Magazine: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUCCESS AT ILC
YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUCCESS AT ILC
By: Rashi Patel
There is a sense of excitement and anticipation that fills the air as the International Leadership Conference (ILC) draws near. More than merely a competition, this yearly event serves as a stage for Georgia HOSA members to demonstrate their abilities, expertise, and enthusiasm for the healthcare field. But success at ILC isn't something that just happens. It needs time and a lot of preparation. This thorough guide includes some tips to help you succeed whether you're competing in an SQT event, skills event, or presentation event.
Testing Events:
1) Whiteboard method: Although flashcards can be an effective way to memorize for many people, others don’t find this strategy helpful. Instead, try writing out a chapter or section of your event, memorize it, and then re-write what you can from memory. This will help you identify areas needing more focus!
2) Look for associations: Concentrate your study efforts on the main ideas and relationships in different topics from your event. You will be able to understand and comprehend ideas more easily if you can find relationships between them. This can also provide insight into the “why” in certain concepts.
3) Practice, Practice, Practice: They don’t say “Practice makes perfect” for nothing! Take practice exams to gauge your understanding and pinpoint areas in which you still need to improve. Instead of just memorizing the answers, make an effort to comprehend the underlying ideas of each question.
4) Time management: Get comfortable responding to questions in the given exam time. During the test, time management is essential, so plan how to divide your time wisely so you don’t get overwhelmed.
5) Remain calm and confident: On test day, keep your composure and confidence in yourself. Rely on your preparation and concentrate on each question. Avoid thinking back to the previous ones you’ve answered because you’ll start to doubt yourself more!
Skills Events:
1) Make sure you have the basics down: Learn the basic skills needed for your selected event, whether it's something like checking your first aid kit or positioning your patient correctly. Work on these abilities until it’s second nature to you.
2) Don't practice alone: To find areas for growth and to strengthen your skills, get input and feedback from your peers or your advisor.
3) Replicate real-life scenarios: To simulate the pressure and difficulties you might encounter during the competition, create realistic scenarios or take part in simulations. This will enable you to adjust and function well under stress.
4) Emphasis on communication: In many skill-based competitions, clear communication is just as crucial as technical expertise. Whether you're talking to a patient, providing directions, or explaining processes, practice communicating information in a clear and professional manner.
Presentation Events:
1) Create an engaging story: Storytelling is essential for presentation events. Create a captivating and engaging presentation that draws judges in and clearly conveys your point of view or solution. Add a joke or two in there but don’t be stiff!
2) Practice public speaking: To improve your confidence, practice your presentation several times. Try talking in front of your family or even in a mirror. Be aware of your tone, eye contact, and body language.
3) Make use of visual aids: These can improve your presentation and assist in communicating technically difficult material. Diagrams, prototypes, and interactive tri-folds can help you maintain your judges’ interest.
4) Expect questions: Prepare for any questions that your judges might ask and create thoughtful responses in advance. Keep in mind varying points of view of your presentation!
5) Be genuine: Show genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter you are discussing. Whether it’s about a career in healthcare or a medical innovation, being genuine connects with your judges and builds your credibility as a speaker.
As the countdown to ILC begins, it's crucial to remember that success isn't just about showing up; it's about being prepared and ready to shine. Whether you're memorizing for a testing event, perfecting your skills for a hands-on challenge, or refining your presentation for the judges, stay focused and confident. Georgia HOSA is rooting for you every step of the way. Good luck and remember to let your passion for healthcare guide you to success!