Summer Interns Gain Experience in Medical Examiner's Office

Three students, from different backgrounds and at different education levels had the opportunity this summer to gain practical experience in a common environment - the Harris County Medical Examiner's Office.

Johnnie McGee, a fourth-year student at Howard University majoring in psychology, is planning to go to graduate school, and is considering becoming a forensic psychologist/criminal profiler.

"Luckily, I was afforded the wonderful opportunity to work at the Harris County Medical Examiner's Office," said McGee. "I have been working in the photography department and it has been a great experience. I didn't know how I would be able to handle looking at death every day, but Ihave, and my time here has been more fulfilling than I initially thought."

McGee said when he first interviewed for the job, he thought, "What could a psychology major actually get out of this job?"

"The staff has been so amiable and hospitable," said McGee. "I have been invited to each of the departments by the staff members to learn about their fields and have learned more than I ever imagined; now I am inquiring more."

Overall, McGee said this has been his best summer employment experience, and once he attains his degrees he may be looking to work permanently at the Medical Examiner's Office.

Angela N. Randolph is a recent graduate from Alief Hastings High School. She graduated with a Texas Scholar's Honor and plans to attend Texas Woman's University this fall, majoring in psychology.

"I was referred to the Harris County Medical Examiner's Office by Commissioner El Franco Lee's Office," said Randolph. "During my experience here at the Medical Examiner's Office, I have grown several ways personally, one of which has given me a deeper appreciation for life and what a wonderful gift it is."

Randolph, who is a member of "Who's Who Among American High School Students" and a former member of "Top Teens of America-Houston Chapter," credits Dr. Joye Carter, Harris County Medical Examiner, with giving her the opportunity to work and learn this summer.

"Working here has inspired me to pursue a degree in psychology and reach out to youth about the significance of life," Randolph said.

Andrea Rocha is 21 years old and in her third year at the University of Houston, where she is a business marketing major. She is also a 1998 graduate of the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, where she played flute.

"This is my third year working for Harris County and I have to say that working for the Medical Examiner's Office has been a learning experience," said Rocha. "My interest in forensics has made me want to continue to learn more about it."

Rocha said she has worked with many wonderful people who have taught her a lot about the many duties and responsibilities of the Medical Examiner's Office. "I hope to return next summer so that I may continue my learning experience," Rocha said.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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