Autumn Decker, MS
Completing this certificate impacted my career as I switched research fields and interests because of it. I got my M.S. in Kinesiology at UWM but after completing this certificate I realized I wanted to focus more on the whole older adult instead of just their physical activity. This led me to a more holistic social science career.
What sparked your interest in gerontology? Why did you decide to pursue the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology (GCAG)?
I spent a lot of my youth around people who were older than me as my father is the youngest of nine children. Because of this, I have very close relationships with my grandparents, so I knew I wanted to work with people like them! I worked as a certified nursing assistant during my undergraduate career which further cemented my interest in working with older adults. I decided to pursue the GCAG program because I wanted to learn more about the unique aging experience of our older adult population and apply that knowledge to research.
What are the strengths of the GCAG program?
A strength of the GCAG program is almost all courses are offered online making it really easy to fit into your schedule without having to worry about interfering with required courses for your primary degree. Another strength is that the instructors come from many different backgrounds and careers, offering a broad spectrum of knowledge and advice that helped me shape my interests.
How has completing the certificate impacted your career?
Completing this certificate impacted my career as I switched research fields and interests because of it. I got my M.S. in Kinesiology at UWM but after completing this certificate I realized I wanted to focus more on the whole older adult instead of just their physical activity. This led me to a more holistic social science career.
Where are you currently working and what is your position?
Currently, I am a doctoral student in Prevention Science at Washington State University in Pullman, WA. I work as a research assistant for my advisor Dr. Raven Weaver researching rural aging, social determinants of health, health literacy, death anxiety and much more.
What are you learning while working in the field with older adults?
I am learning a lot about the health behaviors of older adults, how to measure them and how to help. I am also learning more about the research process and the ins and outs of academia.
What advice do you have for future students who are interested in completing the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology?
Take elective courses that you might be uncomfortable taking. My favorite course was Death and Dying and it had a profound impact on my career and interests. Also, make connections with your professors because they have a lot to offer and are more than willing to help you out!
Where is Autumn Decker now?
Autumn Decker is a doctoral student in Prevention Science at Washington State University. She completed the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology along with a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Kinesiology in Spring 2020.