Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) major Tara Haugvoll's dreams of nursing school are within reach, thanks to her experience as a nursing intern for Houston Methodist Hospital. Tara says that majoring in HDFS came naturally, having always been interested in the field.

Tara knew she had an interest in cognitive development but emphasized her passion for gender studies. During the course of her internship, Tara was able to find interest in pursuing either labor and delivery or pediatric care.

"Undoubtedly my experience equipped me for my future career," Tara said. "My time at Houston Methodist affirmed what hospital departments I would enjoy. I really want to work with kids—whether through labor and delivery or pediatrics."

As an intern, Tara assisted registered nurses across multiple hospital departments where she was able to learn the process of measuring vitals and witnessed care in labor and delivery.

"My favorite areas were the hospital's wound care unit and the labor and delivery department. Assisting those divisions provided me a hands-on perspective that I don't know if I would have obtained without working inside a hospital."

In the labor and delivery department, Tara was offered the opportunity to shadow the nursing staff during caesarian section operations.

"I loved labor and delivery—it was exciting to see firsthand what I've spent so much time studying. Witnessing the parents' happiness when they first embrace their child is priceless and infinitely rewarding."

Tara says she enjoys how her undergraduate coursework teaches students material that is constantly evolving in terms of scientific discovery.

"HDFS and Houston Methodist taught me that humans are incredible. Witnessing what women endure during pregnancy and how their bodies heal afterward continually amazes me."

For Tara, the guidance from professors in the program create a valuable learning environment for both students and faculty. Not only do professors get to know their students, they ensure that they are making a positive impact in their students' lives.

After her December 2018 graduation, Tara hopes to attend Texas Tech University Health Science Center's accelerated nursing program.

"I am very grateful to Texas Tech and Houston Methodist for the extremely gratifying experiences each provided me. Not only have I learned a lot about human development, but also a lot about myself."