Intern Spotlight: Summer internship gives Alec Langan practical experience
McCOOK, Neb. — Alec Langan is a junior at Chadron State College majoring in Health Sciences, with plans of studying pharmacy. He’s currently employed as an intern at U-Save Pharmacy and Medical Supply in McCook.
He works as a Certified Pharmacy Technician, and helps fill and count prescriptions, as well as other miscellaneous tasks like cleaning. Alec says this summer so far has challenged him, but it “has been an opportunity to incorporate what I am learning in college and use it in the ‘real world’”, he says. Alec has enjoyed his summer internship, as he believes it has helped him settle on the direction of his career.
Alec says he’s learned things outside of conventional pharmaceutical knowledge since starting at U-Save:
“This summer taught me to always give people grace. The pharmacy has been and always should be a place where each customer is greeted with a smile. It is a safe environment for everyone. We are here to serve you and give you the absolute best experience possible.”
Alec sees a future in the pharmaceutical industry, and believes his internship is helping him prepare for that journey:
“Internships are a great way to meet new people and explore different jobs. Being able to apply what you have learned in college makes going back to school more interesting. I highly recommend that young people who are interested in the medical field get a job/internship in healthcare before they start college. Not only will it make their studies easier, it will also make classes more interesting. Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician has introduced me to all of the various healthcare professions. In addition, my certification has enabled me to work in a similar capacity while attending Chadron State College. “
Angela Langan, a pharmacist at U-Save, says interns greatly benefit her company:
“U-Save Pharmacy & Medical Supply enjoys hiring pharmacy interns as they keep us abreast of all that is going on at the University level. They bring fresh ideas that can benefit the entire store. Their energy is appreciated by staff and customers alike. They allow full-time employees to take the vacations that they deserve. Lastly, we are always excited to introduce young professionals to Southwest Nebraska and show them the benefits of living here. Ideally, we hope that they will return to the area to practice pharmacy when they graduate from professional school.”
— If you are an intern working in the area, or if you are a business that has hired a summer intern, and would like to be featured, please call or text Isaac at the Gazette (308)340-5707 to be included in the series.