Why would you encourage students to take a UNL Gerontology course even if they are not pursuing a healthcare field?
I would encourage students to take UNL Gerontology courses even if not pursuing a career in healthcare because aging is present in every aspect of our lives. This includes young, middle, and older adults that are being treated in a non-medical setting. Understanding the aging process helps to better understand and effectively work with and create a community among all ages of individuals regardless of their health status.
Why would you recommend pursuing a Certificate (or Minor) in Gerontology at UNL?
I would recommend pursuing a minor or certificate in Gerontology at UNL because it shows an in-depth understanding of connecting real-world knowledge of the older adult population with the ability to critically interpret understanding of real-world problems that affect students during their education and beyond as they age. It prepares students to thoughtfully produce meaningful discussions about the aging process as well as foster a positive outlook on aging past their degree.
In your opinion, what experiences and/or classes as a Gerontology Certificate student at UNL have contributed to your success as a student?
Gerontology focused courses that have contributed to me pursuing a Gerontology Certificate are GERO 200 (Introduction to Gerontology) and COMM 368. Gerontology 200 has contributed to me pursuing a Gerontology Certificate due to the support and advocacy for the older adult population from my professor Mollie George. Her passion and love for the older adult population re-sparked my love for this sector of the population. The GERO 200 course gives a scope of knowledge for the challenges older adults face and starts diving into the various aspects of how gerontology can affect your future personal and professional interactions with the older adult population. One of my favorite courses that contributed to me pursuing a Gerontology Certificate is COMM 368 (Comm and Aging). This course takes a hands-on approach to exploring effective communication practices towards the older adult population. Both of these courses do a great job at reiterating the importance of a positive outlook for the self and others during aging process that can be taken into account during personal and professional experiences.
More details at: https://gerontology.unl.edu/