I recently won my state competition for HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America), and I am from Texas, which is a very competitive state. I placed first in my event, and I think I have a really good chance of placing 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in the National Competition this summer at Anaheim. The problem is, I have a research program that I’ve been accepted to as well, and it’s during the summer.
So my question is, which one should I do? I really want to do both, but I won’t be able to.
I think the research program will be a much more valuable experience. You already have an “award” from HOSA and I can’t imagine that winning a national HOSA award (which isn’t guaranteed) would add as much depth to your applications as an entire summer of research.
I’d be surprised if your mentor wasn’t flexible enough to allow you to take some time off for the competition but yes, research would be a more valuable experience.