With goals of becoming a medical professional, Bethany “Maegan” Lamb is proud to represent Sampson County as a student in a prestigious statewide school.
The 17-year-old from Clinton was honored as one of 12 junior marshals for the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) during the recent recognition ceremony for its online program, held in Durham.
“I feel honored because the school is very prestigious,” Lamb said about being one of the chosen few. “The smartest kids in North Carolina attend the school and to be able to represent the junior class in a prestigious environment is a big honor.”
Lamb is currently enrolled with NCSSM online program, which specializes in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) courses for rising juniors and seniors. It offers subjects not offered in a traditional classroom setting. She’s studied forensic science and classical genetics, a course where students study cells, inheritance of traits and evolution. In the fall, Lamb plans to take epidemiology, an introductory course focusing on human microbial disease.
“It’s a big deal to be a part of that program and it means a lot to me to have the opportunity to be a part of it and represent not only myself and my family, but my school and my county,” she said.
For the future, Lamb is considering a career in pharmacy. She believes her education at NCSSM is helping with the goal, since it gives her opportunities to explore options.
“Understanding how the body works is key to becoming a pharmacist,” she said.
After graduating in 2019, she plans to attend a four-year university and continue her education at a pharmacy school. Lamb is now an intern at Matthews Drug Store in Clinton for the summer. She recently completed involvement in North Carolina State University’s Shelton Challenge Leadership Camp, which emphasizes honesty, integrity, compassion, diversity and social responsibility.
Lamb enjoys enjoys interacting with people and students from all over the state. The school also provides guidance with college and career opportunities.
“They’re really passionate about what they do for the students who they teach,” Lamb said.
As a dual-enrolled student in the competitive program, Lamb attends Clinton High School. The student-athlete is a members of the CHS cross country team and track team and will be the president of the school’s Student Government Association. She is also involved with the Spanish National Honors Society, Peer Group Connections and the Key Club — an organization that focuses on service projects for the community.
“It’s very challenging because you have to make time outside of school as well,” she said about making everything fit into a schedule. “It takes a lot of time management and pre-planning.”
Lamb is also involved in youth activities at her church, Keathern Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where she attends with her family. Lamb is the daughter of James and Felicia Lamb.
“I’m proud and it was an honor for her to be chosen,” Felicia said about her daughter. “It shows her hard work and dedication.”