What to Expect
Gerontology students look at all aspects of aging. The skills they develop
can be applied in a wide variety of areas.
Robin Parsell studied gerontology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
She says her certificate program has given her invaluable experience.
"What I have learned from this program can be applied to any and all future
endeavors," she says. "I believe you have a better understanding of the
aging population as a whole from different points of view."
Parsell took classes in the biology of aging, psychology of aging and
sociology of aging. "These courses gave me a more meaningful understanding
for the basis of study," she says.
"I enjoyed all of the coursework, but I truly enjoyed a course in minority
aging. This course was like no other. The information presented inspired
me to focus my goals. I learned that aging is multicultural and affects everyone
differently.
"I also enjoyed the independent study courses, where I had the
chance to collaborate with professors within the...school of medicine, department
of biology and department of sociology."
On average, Parsell says she had two hours of homework for each hour
of lecture.
Parsell believes the only difficult aspect of the program for new students
is deciding which courses to take. A variety of paths exist for those studying
gerontology, from biological to psychological to social and economic, she
says.
"This was not a great concern with me, since I personally believe the more
you learn about the field of gerontology, the easier it becomes to make decisions
about your individual career," Parsell says.
How to Prepare
"I participate in extracurricular activities associated with the elderly
in the hopes of making some positive effect on their lives and mine," Parsell
says. "So any activity with the elderly is great."
Parsell has volunteered at health fairs, taking blood pressures and providing
information on health issues associated with the elderly. She has volunteered
to prepare meals for the less fortunate, sick and shut-ins. She also supports
the Alzheimer's of Central Alabama Foundation by assisting with walkathons
and other events.