Center on
Aging Studies
at the University of Missouri-Kansas City
IN OUR STUDENTS WORDS
In the summer of 2001, when it was time for me to select my practicum site, I was determined to find the ideal setting – one that would nurture my interests in health care, minority and under-served populations, and the spirit of intergenerational connectedness. Also, having worked at the Guadalupe Centers, Inc. for the year prior to my practicum, I especially wanted to draw on my ties to the Hispanic community and my fluency in Spanish. So when Practicum Coordinator, Liz Kendall told me about he Alzheimer’s Association and its search for someone to coordinate Latino outreach, I jumped at the chance. I spent 180 hours, and then some, canvassing the Westside, expanding my knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease to distribute literature and create awareness, and meeting some of the bravest, most resilient people around – those with Alzheimer’s disease and the families who love them.
I knew that my practicum would give me hand-on experience. I looked forward to its providing me valuable connections to professionals in aging. I hoped that it might be a stepping stone to future employment. I achieved all of those expectations and more – at the conclusion of my practicum, I was offered and I accepted a full-time position as Outreach Coordinator for Spanish Speakers. A year later, the Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter and I have made significant strides in meeting the needs of Spanish-speaking persons affected by Alzheimer’s disease, and every day brings new efforts toward care and a cure. I am continually motivated and inspired. I have the Gerontology Certificate Program to thank for launching me on one of the most satisfying journeys of my professional and personal lives.