Personal Narrative for Applicants to the M.S. in Applied Gerontology Program
The purpose of the personal narrative is to give you an opportunity to discuss your interests in gerontology, in general, and the UNCW MS in Applied Gerontology program, specifically, and to reflect on why you are interested in working with and on behalf of older adults.
The M.S. in Applied Gerontology program provides a foundation for those who plan to work with older adults. Taking a life course approach, faculty teach through the lens of the biopsychosocial approach and incorporate arts and humanities content and methods as well. Core courses include content in health, psychology, social aspects of aging, and research methods. Electives provide students the chance to explore topics of personal or professional interest, including social work, therapeutic recreation, family and health, health care access, women and aging, business, and more.
All students complete hands-on practicum experiences with businesses or service organizations that serve older adults. Working with a committee of faculty and sometimes a representative from an aging services organization (learn about program and affiliate faculty here), students implement a project that showcases the knowledge gained through the program and addresses a theoretical or practical need in the field of aging.
With our program description in mind, please address the following questions:
- Why have you chosen to study gerontology? Discuss your career and/or personal goals here.
- What academic, professional, and/or volunteer experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a master’s degree in the field of gerontology?
- What personal qualities and strengths would you bring to this program and the study of gerontology?
- There are many different gerontology graduate programs – why are you interested in our applied program? Include topics you might be interested in studying or exploring in your final project as well as the interests of program faculty with whom you might want to work.
Your personal narrative should be no more than 500 words.
