Mansfield ISD Magazine Winter 2015 | Page 20

Health Science Student Applies Knowledge through Externship A lthough she and her family moved to Mansfield just one year ago, Taja Mathis quickly felt right at home. As a senior at Ben Barber Career Tech Academy, she is plugged in through Student Council, Multicultural Club, and HOSA, which is a club for Health Occupation Students of America. This semester, Mathis has been enjoying the opportunity to be part of an externship with the local Walgreen’s Pharmacy. Externships are similar to internships and provide students with practical experiences in their field of study. “I get to apply what I’ve learned in a real world setting,” said Mathis. “It’s really hands on and it has helped me to retain the material I’ve been learning.” Health Science teacher Gary Welborn quizzed Mathis on prescription data. Mathis searches and fills prescriptions, creates medicine labels, and gets an overall inside look at how a pharmacy is organized and run. Her health science teacher at Ben Barber, Gary Welborn, has provided Mathis with the tools to be successful in her externship. “My advice to younger students or students struggling to make big decisions about the future is to be true to yourself,” Mathis said. “I think it’s also important not to ever limit yourself or put yourself in a box. Don’t be afraid to explore new things!” family d.r.e.a.m. center 2200 FM 157 Suite 200 • Mansfield, TX 76063 www.familydreamcenter.com [email protected] Text “dream” to 76959 to 817-225-4144 receive coupons via text Dance • Tumble • Birthday Parties • Art/Music • Ladies Fitness (pilates, yoga & ballet sculpting) 50% OFF 20 18 A monthly group class in DANCE OR MUSIC Mansfield School & Family Mansfield School & Family $30 OFF BIRTHDAY PARTY Princess Ball & Tea Party, DJ Hip Hop Dance Party or many Art Parties to choose from