As a junior at Palm Desert High School, it feels like the future is approaching faster than ever, and the only thing we can truly control is how we prepare for it.

One of the most impactful ways I’ve been preparing is through the Health Academy, an outstanding program that has left a lasting impression on me. This isn’t just a class about medical terminology or human anatomy–it’s a transformative experience that builds our confidence, professionalism and readiness for life beyond high school.

One of the most valuable and unique aspects of the Health Academy is the professional interview preparation. While most high school students never receive this type of training, we’re given the rare opportunity to practice the art of interviewing. Our teacher, Mr. Ron Paiz, recognized that many students across the country enter interviews unprepared, so he decided to change that by helping over 200 students learn how to present themselves with professionalism and confidence.

The interview prep process is taken seriously. We participate in full-scale mock interviews designed to mirror real-life scenarios whether it’s a job, internship or college interview. We’re expected to dress professionally, carry ourselves with poise and communicate clearly. It’s challenging, but the growth we experience is undeniable.

Mr. Paiz invites individuals from the community to conduct our interviews–people who work in health care, the military, and even former Health Academy students. Their feedback is not only detailed and insightful, but also incredibly encouraging. They help us understand our strengths, recognize areas for improvement, and reflect on how we present ourselves to the world.

The transformation we go through is truly powerful. Students who were once shy or unsure walk out of their interviews with confidence and clarity. We learn to speak about our goals with purpose, tackle tough questions and carry ourselves like professionals. These interviews push us out of our comfort zones and show us what we’re capable of achieving.

The Health Academy doesn’t just prepare students for college–it prepares us for life. It teaches us how to show up, speak up and succeed. Joining this program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in high school and the skills I’ve gained–especially through our interview preparation–will stay with me for years to come.

Violet David is a junior and the PDHS Health Academy Class President. For more information on OneFuture Coachella Valley and local health academies, visit www.onefuturecv.org