Healthcare and nutrition is an industry that is continuing to grow rapidly in the United States. The Center for Disease Control reported that almost 40 percent of adults over the age of 20 are overweight or obese, and 20 percent of teens are overweight or obese. With alarming statistics, there is a huge need for more education centered on wellness and nutrition. In a few years Lais Hoff will join the fight to encourage a healthier tomorrow for Americans. Hoff is a Brazilian native who moved to the states in 2015. As a student at Eastern Montgomery High School, Hoff is making a difference.
Hoff was born in San Paolo, is being reared Jewish, which is a unique combination, but Hoff is use to the questions. “I loved living a big city, but I love it here too,” said Hoff. “It’s very calm here, but San Paolo is nice to visit.” Hoff has more stamps on her passport than most adults. She has traveled to Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy and Austria. Hoff speaks Portuguese. When she moved to the United States, she did not speak English. “I didn’t know what was going to happen when I moved,” said Hoff. “But my parents said I had to be responsible and always do my best.”
Hoff definitely has listened to her parents and has given her all to everything she does. She has a 3.96-grade point average. She is taking dual enrollment classes including pre-calculus and English. She plans to complete two years at a community college then transfer to Virginia Tech. “I study a lot, but I like studying,” said Hoff. “It is interesting to learn how the body works.” Hoff is an overachiever with a huge personality. She works part-time at a local restaurant and during the past couple of years; she has found time to play volleyball on the school’s team.
The ambitious teen has a plan for the future. “I would like to have my own clinic, “said Hoff. “I want to help older people with their nutrition and their diet” as a nutritionist. She already is taking steps towards her dream and her class load includes studies in nutrition and anatomy. She said her dad keeps her motivated and focused on her goals. “He has his own business, and I see what it takes to be a success,” said Hoff. Nutrition and diet strike a personal chord. When she first moved to the states her stepmother offered nutrition tips that improved her energy and academic success. “Food is a source of energy and so many diseases are caused by food,” said Hoff. “I want to help people understand that eating better can keep you alive and healthy.” The teen does not just talk about it, she is gluten and dairy free herself.
Hoff is wise beyond her years. She said if she had to offer any advice to her peers, it would be to think about tomorrow. “Sometimes kids don’t think about their future,” said Hoff. “It can be difficult but ask for help if you need it.” Her determination and compassion will surely have a major impact on the future health of the Roanoke Valley.
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