North Carrollton’s new intern is exceeding expectations as she learns new work-related skills at City Hall.
The North Carrollton Board of Aldermen agreed during their recent monthly meeting to hire Jamison “Jamie” Woodson, a native of Coila currently living in Grenada County and attending Grenada High School as a senior.
“The more we can be involved with students, that’s good for the students. That’s good for the town. It’s good for everybody involved,” said Mayor Ken Strachan about a “hands on” way to learn about municipal government. “She’s done great. She’s good with the customers. She’s good with public relations. It’s been very beneficial to North Carrollton. We appreciate it.”
City Clerk Lyndera Williams said Woodson was hired as a deputy junior clerk to assist her with day-to-day operations at City Hall.
“Her responsibilities include processing water payments, assisting customers with complaints, issues and concerns, filing and organizing,” said Williams. “Because she’s an intern, she’s learning how the city is operated and literally the responsibility of handling 20 different accounts. So, we’re educating her on how City Hall is actually operated.”
Woodson said when she applied for the internship, she did so simply because she needed a job but quickly realized she could gain so much more.
“I really wanted a job, and my auntie helped me -- Lucinda Curry. She wanted me to get a job. But then, when I saw all the benefits that came with it — how I can benefit as a student, and also it can look good on college [applications],” said Woodson.
She started working in the position on July 3, and she admits she has been busy.
“Some people think it’s just a water department, but it’s the Town Hall and Water Department. Ms. Lyn does both – works for the town and the Water Department,” Woodson said. “You really can’t just sit down and not do anything. You’re always on the move and doing something. I enjoy working like that because I really don’t like to sit. I like being on the move. I like to work.”
Woodson said she hopes to start her college career after graduating in 2024 by attending Northwest Community College because of the school’s program for education majors.
“Then I want to go to Ole Miss because they also have a good education program,” said Woodson, adding she also wants to major in business.
Williams said former city clerk Glynnis Taylor told her about the town’s initial internship program which was implemented through the State of Mississippi.
“The difference in our program is it’s something the mayor is allowing us to implement through City Hall,” said Williams. “Next year, we’ll utilize the state. So, I’m grateful the mayor has allowed us to bring in an intern.”
