Earlier this month, we introduced the new group of interns who joined Transforming Age for the summer. Since then, they’ve been busy diving into projects, learning from different teams, and getting a closer look at the work happening across all our communities. Each intern took a moment to reflect and share one of their favorite features of this month in their respective internships so far.
Hear what our interns had to say below!
Anna Ritzema
(đź“ŤNebraska, ROAD Intern)
In the first month of the ROAD internship, I had the opportunity to shadow multiple departments at Eastmont—Sales & Marketing, Wellness & Engagement, Nursing, and Dining Services—as well as spend time at the Carriage Glen Independent Living facility. Each team offered a unique perspective on the operations of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). From learning how the Sales team guides potential residents through the move-in process, to helping run events and activities with the Wellness team, to observing the behind-the-scenes coordination in Nursing, and assisting in the fast-paced kitchen environment of Dining Services, I gained a comprehensive understanding of how Eastmont supports its residents across all levels of care.
Through all of this, I have found that my favorite part of this internship has been the people-facing aspect of it. Senior Living is by nature a very social line of work, and I have very much enjoyed interacting with the residents on all different levels. Serving mimosas at events, helping host a birthday party, sitting at the front desk, listening in on care plan meetings, pouring coffee at lunchtime—all of this allowed me to connect with the residents a bit and begin to get to know them. I love having the opportunity to talk with them and hear a bit more of their stories. But in addition to the residents, I have also enjoyed working with the staff, who all have their distinct roles that are all necessary to keep the whole operation running. I have enjoyed hearing about the work they do and why they do it. Everyone who I have encountered here at Eastmont and Carriage Glen has had a story to tell, and I have found it very rewarding to be able to sit and listen!
Regan Leindecker
(đź“ŤMinnesota, ROAD Intern)
This month, I had the chance to step into nearly every department of a senior living community and get a deeper understanding of what great leadership looks like at every level.
From culinary to life enrichment, nursing to support services, and especially administration, I got the opportunity to learn what it takes to operate a community that serves residents with compassion, dignity, and diligence. What I found most helpful was being able to participate in daily stand-up meetings with the director of each department. These meetings gave me better insight into how each leader approaches decision making when unexpected changes occur, and how they keep their teams motivated. It also showed me how daily consistent communication can have a huge impact on team goals aligning especially in resident care.
Looking ahead, I’m even more excited about where this field is going. With new technologies like AI starting to make its impact, senior living has endless protentional. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been given this opportunity so early on and am committed to being part of the wave of leaders who help move it forward. This month strengthened my decision to pursue a career in senior living.
Sanjeev Ralh
(đź“ŤCalifornia, ROAD Intern)
This past month, I had the opportunity to shadow at AlmaVia of San Francisco and gain valuable insight into the operations of senior living. I worked alongside Executive Director Cleitus Jones, a knowledgeable and transformational leader who truly cares about the well-being of the residents in his community. Each day was different, and although Cleitus faced various challenges, he consistently maintained a positive outlook, something I greatly admired and will carry with me as I begin my own leadership journey. I also developed a deeper understanding of the financial aspects of senior living by observing the forecasting and management of budgets, which I found particularly engaging. Additionally, I learned the importance of ensuring residents receive appropriate care in a timely manner and how to effectively manage such situations.
At AlmaVia of San Francisco, I had the privilege of shadowing Kara, the Sales and Marketing Director. She is highly knowledgeable in her field and passionate about ensuring new residents adjust well to the community. During my time with her, I gained insight into how Salesforce is used to generate leads and identify prospective residents. While sales can be challenging, I found it to be a highly rewarding field. I joined Kara on several tours with prospective residents, where I observed how she effectively engaged with clients, listened to their needs, and provided detailed information about the services and lifestyle our community offers. Sales and marketing also involve outreach and networking, and I was fortunate to attend community events and connect with others in the senior living industry. I loved this aspect.
Hannah Bazar
(đź“ŤWashington, ROAD Intern)
During my internship this month, I learned that a business office manager handles a variety of administrative tasks, often independently, which suits those who enjoy computer-based work. I also explored aspects of HR, including managing invoices and employment transitions. I was surprised to discover that the sales and marketing team not only manages housing logistics and resident outreach but also organizes engaging events like neighborhood dog parties to foster community and attract potential residents.I also had hands-on experiences with several departments. The activities and lifestyle team plans and executes events, balancing resident interaction with behind-the-scenes tasks like decorating and creating promotional materials. My time with the health services department, though confirming my disinterest in pursuing healthcare, gave me a deeper appreciation for the field and included helping set up a COVID testing station. At the front desk, I was involved in a wide range of responsibilities, from managing alerts and work orders to assisting residents and staff.Â
As a 20-year-old, I never thought about myself or loved ones being over 60 until I did this internship, and I think it can be hard, but it is important to know what you want when you’re older for yourself and others regarding living situation, financial situation, and health status.Â
Callista Yu
(đź“ŤCalifornia, Marketing & Communications Intern)
I believe that the most valuable takeaway from any internship is the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the incredible people and community that make up the organization. So far this month, I feel I have been able to do just that!
Since my internship differs a bit from the others, I’ve been able to work independently and manage projects on my own. This internship has given me hands-on experience with tools that are essential in the marketing world. Throughout this month, I’ve been able to get a better understanding of how social media content, email blasts, and community newsletters all come together as a strategy to support our mission. I have loved being able to contribute to the internal communications and support the work being done behind the scenes in a way that makes an impact.
Although there are many rewarding parts to this role, my favorite aspect of the internship so far has been my visits to the communities. As a Marketing and Communications intern, a large part of my work involves capturing social media content for marketing materials. Throughout this month, I’ve visited different communities and attended special events to immerse myself in the heart of the experience. I think that there’s something really special about being able to walk into a space and witness the moments residents and staff share together. Like many other team members have said before, each community has its own unique personality, and through the content I create, I do my best to reflect the spirit of the community and the people in it.