SCC Nursing Student writes HOAE Study Guide
By Melissa Pendergast

For almost one year Susan Hester studied in preparation for an exam that would either make or break her aspirations to enter Southwestern's component of Region A Nursing Consortium, one of three community colleges that make up the program.

The Health Occupation Aptitude Exam (HOAE) is a national exam required of all students seeking to enter particular health programs at higher institutions of learning. A combination of a passing HOAE score, a panel interview, previous health care experience, residency and GPA are just some of the components reviewed before being accepted into the program.

"I consider myself to be one of the lucky ones," said Hester. "I had plenty of time to study and prepare for the exam, but a lot of people are trying to prepare in their spare time."

Several trips to the library, studying the only HOAE study guide she could find, and a lot of long hours paid off for Hester. Not only was she accepted into the nursing consortium for the 2001 school year, but she also received 100% of all possible points on the HOAE.

After the excitement of passing the exam, Hester decided to take the notes she had compiled and write her own study guide.

"The information I've compiled is available at the library and through research," said Hester. "I've just compiled the information as an accessible resource for someone who doesn't have the kind of time I had to study."

Hester has sold approximately 80 copies of the study guide over the past two years without any major marketing.

"I update the study guide continuously," said Hester who plans to retake the exam this winter to refresh herself and ensure that her study guide covers up-to-date material.

Hester emphasized that although the study guide will prepare test takers for several components of the exam, the vocational adjustment component is meant to weed out students who do not have the right temperament for health fields.

"I truly believe that this exam is ensuring that the right people get into health programs," said Hester. "You not only have to have the knowledge, you've got to have the right personality to work in health care. This exam will ensure you have both."

For additional information, or to purchase a copy of Hester's study guide in CD or book format, visit Southwestern Community College's bookstore or visit www.hoae-test.com on the Internet.

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