Tara Houston-Taylor, Paralegal, Midlands Technical College
Class of 1996
Interviewed by Kenetta Pierce, Student Employment Services
“You can get anywhere from here”, the slogan of Midlands Technical College (MTC), is a way of life for Tara Houston Taylor. Since graduating from MTC in 1996, Tara has been taking ‘anywhere’ all the way to the top. While her current position is in Counseling, she began her studies in our Paralegal program. “My instructors were attorneys who worked in the community thus they were able to provide us with real world knowledge and experiences.” Our paralegal program was Tara’s route to a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Limestone College and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Webster University.
As a counselor in Counseling and Career Services at Midlands Technical College, Tara provides academic, career and personal counseling to students. She also works with students who are struggling academically to introduce time management techniques, stress management tips, test taking strategies and learning how to adopt good study habits. Tara stresses that students interested in the counseling profession should have the ability to be active listeners. “You have to be able to understand and get a grasp of what is being relayed to you, because one may not come out and tell you directly what the situation is. Often, they may not even realize it themselves and by listening, you may be able to pick up on the little hidden information.” Students who may be interested in pursuing the counseling field should look at its various career paths. “Job shadowing is a great way to walk in the footsteps of a person who is in a career that one is interested in,” Tara explained.
For Tara, the rewards are many. “Students arrive at our door with a myriad of issues and/or concerns. But what is most rewarding is when a student can walk out of my office with a different or a more positive outlook on his or her given situation.”
“You can get anywhere from here. However, you must be willing to work hard and diligently to get to that next level. Remember to learn as much as you can and have a willingness to learn along the way.” Tara’s determination shows in work and life. By spring, she plans to meet her current goal of completing a Doctorate of Education Degree in Higher Education Leadership from Nova Southeastern University. A newlywed, Tara enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband. She is an active member of Bible Way Church of Atlas Road and the Upsilon Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Tara also enjoys networking, shopping, and spending time with family.
