 "The gerontology classes at MU provide a great opportunity for students to enhance their understanding of our elder population. Gerontology is a growing field and I believe the classes at MU really challenge students to grow within themselves, learning and having fun at the same time."
~~ Carrie Darnell
Social Work & Gerontology
Class of 2008
 “I think that studying gerontology will not only help me as a social worker, but as a person. The themes that arise from studying gerontology can be used in almost every social aspect of your life--from personal development to government policy. I also appreciate that it is a minor that can apply to students from many different disciplines/majors. I would recommend classes in the gerontology minor, even if it is just for enrolling because of personal interest.”
~~ Tim Polakowski
Social Work, Spanish & Gerontology
Class of 2008
 "The gerontology program has provided me with numerous experiences for face to face encounters with older adults in the area. These experiences at Timbercrest Retirement Community, Peabody Retirement Community, and the Wabash County Council on Aging, Inc., have opened my eyes to the strengths and struggles of older adults. I have appreciated the opportunities to hear their stories and learn about the history within each individual. My work in gerontology has taught me a lot about appreciating the worth of individuals at any age and the value of maintaining connections through generations."
~~ Brit Betz
Social Work & Gerontology
Class of 2011
"I have a gerontology minor and graduated from MU in 2010. During the spring of my senior year at MU I was able to experience an internship at Peabody Retirement Community in North Manchester. Through this experience I have grown and experienced many new things. I came into the internship with a lot of hesitation and misinformation about dementia and dying. Through my work with the staff I have become very comfortable and knowledgeable in many areas and have been able to overcome my fear of dementia and dying and am now happy to say that I am hoping to pursue hospice as my long-term goal in life."
~~ Amber Richey
Psychology & Gerontology
Class of 2010
 “Studying gerontology can benefit everyone; not only does this field give students an idea of what life is like for elders, it gives us an idea of what it will be like to age. My research on aging has helped me to realize the obstacles, prejudices and humiliation that older generations face. Gerontology classes give students the opportunity to discuss, analyze and reject these stereotypes about aging. My gerontology class has given me the opportunity to welcome the prospect of aging.”
~~ Kimberly Thiede
Social Work
Class of 2007
“Studying gerontology at MU has opened up my eyes to a whole other piece of our culture that is sometimes forgotten about. By studying gerontology through reading books, writing research papers and creating needs assessments I have learned the importance of all people working together to learn from each other and create a better environment for all people. Furthermore, I have discovered the importance of meeting people at their ability level and taking time to work with and listen to them. It has made me excited to learn more about the growing needs elders have and how they can be met by our culture.”
~~ Claire Olson
Athletic Training
Class of 2007
 “I personally did not want to work with the aging population, but after taking the gerontology class I had a different perspective. I learned a great deal about the biopsychosocial aspect of aging and how it affects everyone as they age. I am currently working with the population that in my first year at MU I stated that I would never feel comfortable working with, and I love it! Gerontology is not just a class where you learn about the aging population, but it is where you can expand your knowledge of a population that some feel is too scary to work with. I love my job
(in a rehabilitation hospital in Louisiana), and I believe that gerontology is part of that reason.”
~~ Jamie Charvat
Social Work
Class of 2007
 “I've thought about this for a week now and I cannot come up with the words to show my gratitude and respect for the gerontology program. As I am embarking on my future and beginning work with a non-profit that specializes in resources with elders, I see how far you have brought me. I went from being timid and disliked the idea of working with elders but now I know that I am prepared. I feel more comfortable with elders now that I have taken intro to gerontology. I would recommend these courses to students of all majors and minors because the number of elders is growing and it is imperative to have a better understanding of the challenges that elders are continually facing as they grow older in our society.”
~~ Kate Jastrzemski
Social Work
Class of 2007
 “My main reason I studied gerontology was to help me get over the myths I had heard and the fears I had about the elderly and becoming old, and working with the elderly. This was accomplished through gerontology class and a practicum at Peabody Retirement Community.”
~~ Becky Wheaton
Social Work
Class of 2007
 “The courses within the
gerontology program have given me the knowledge and preparation to go into the
gerontology field. The actual coursework has also given me experience and skill-building opportunities that would apply to other social service fields as well. The
gerontology minor gave me an upper-hand, so to speak, because of the courses, instructors, and experiences. I felt confident when applying to potential employers.”
~~ Eric Berger
Social Work, Gerontology & Criminal Justice
Class of 2007
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