Senior Malia Kirschman from Steinbrenner High School is helping lead a project aimed at spreading awareness about one of the most popular teenage beverages: energy drinks. Krischman is an incredibly dedicated member of Health Occupations Students of America, also known as HOSA, a national club geared towards high school students looking to pursue a career in medicine. Members compete in state and national events, explore medical fields, and participate in projects that connect health science with real-world issues. 

For Krischman, joining HOSA was an obvious step. When asked why she joined the club, she explained that she had an interest in medicine and wanted to gain some experience in the field. Her interest in healthcare paired perfectly with HOSA’s Community Awareness event, where students design and implement a public-health campaign. Her campaign, titled “Sip Smart,” sheds light on the hidden dangers of these highly caffeinated and sugar-filled drinks.  

According to their Instagram page, the goal of Sip Smart is to “educate our community about the risks of excessive caffeine and sugar intake, encourage smart, sustainable energy habits, support students in making choices that improve wellbeing, and create a positive movement towards healthier living.” 

Krischman hopes that this campaign will encourage the students of Steinbrenner to think about what they consume more carefully. For her and her team, it’s not about criticizing energy drink consumption; it’s about informing their peers so that they can make healthier decisions.