Meet Taja

Taja provides Early Intervention Services in Greenville County.

Hello everyone! My name is Taja Booker, and I’m proud to say I was born and raised in Fountain Inn, South Carolina. I recently earned my Master’s degree in Experimental Psychology from Ohio University. My academic journey began at the University of Memphis, where I studied for two years before transferring to Western Carolina University. There, I completed my Bachelor of Science with Honors. I then continued to Ohio University, completing my graduate studies over the next two years. I graduated from Hillcrest High School with Honors and Summa Cum Laude distinction. During my time there, I was a track and field athlete, earning seven state championship titles and setting two state records that still stand today. I continued my athletic career at the Division I level at all three universities I attended, earning All-Conference honors in each school's respective conference. At Ohio University, I currently hold seven top-five times in the sprint events. I’ve returned to Hillcrest High School as a sprints coach, giving back to the same program that shaped my early athletic career. I am also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Deeply family-oriented, I’m passionate about community service, leadership, and making a lasting positive impact wherever I go.

Background

Education:

• MS of Experimental Psychology - Ohio University 

  BS of Psychology with Honors -Western Carolina University

During high school, I served as a Teacher Cadet, primarily working with middle school students, which led to my induction into the Teacher Cadet Honors Society. Throughout high school, I also gained experience babysitting and have continued to maintain strong connections with children in various capacities. More recently, I worked at a preschool, further strengthening my background in early childhood education. I’ve led several community service initiatives focused on youth engagement. These include organizing weekly reading sessions where athletes visited local schools to read to children, coordinating visits from a local mascot to uplift students, and more. While pursuing my Master’s degree at Ohio University, I hosted a holiday drive that provided over 500 toys, blankets, and winter clothing items for children at a local school. Academically, I served as a Teaching Assistant for introductory Behavioral Statistics courses at Ohio University for two years. In that role, I also independently taught a supplemental Behavioral Statistics course. In addition to my academic and community work, I currently mentor students in the Simpsonville area and at Hillcrest High School, continuing my commitment to youth development and education.

Specialized Training:

• BabyNet Part C Credential

• First Aid & CPR Certified

• Therapeutic Options Certified