Megan Lacke, MSW, APSW
I believe that the knowledge that I have gained from the classes in this program has given me the opportunity to bring more to my day-to-day work with clients. I have a deeper understanding of how to effectively communicate with and assist my clients. This certificate has also set me apart from other candidates when interviewing for potential positions.
What sparked your interest in gerontology? Why did you decide to pursue the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology (GCAG)?
I have always had a passion for helping others, but this passion was really solidified when I helped my mom take care of my grandparents as they aged and became terminally ill. My passion for working with the older population was solidified when I was a senior in college. I volunteered at a local hospital and I would assist patients and their families navigate the hospital, sit with them, and listen empathetically to them share their feelings regarding what they are going through. I chose to pursue the certificate because the classes were focused on the older adult population and their unique and enormous needs going forward and the huge and long-standing need for geriatric social workers!
What are the strengths of the GCAG program?
I would say there are several strengths to the GCAG program. The classes are flexible, there is a wide variety of topics to choose from, and the classes focus specifically on the older adult population. This program sheds a light on this relatively newer area of social work.
How has completing the certificate impacted your career?
I believe that the knowledge that I have gained from the classes in this program has given me the opportunity to bring more to my day-to-day work with clients. I have a deeper understanding of how to effectively communicate with and assist my clients. This certificate has also set me apart from other candidates when interviewing for potential positions.
Where are you currently working and what is your position?
I am currently working at Community Care in the Family Care program. I am a care manager and I assist my clients to connect with needed resources and assist them in remaining as independent as possible in their living environments.
What are you learning while working in the field with older adults?
I am learning many things. I am learning how to help my older adult clients navigate their world, how to assist them in determining what their needs are and finding resources that can help them reach their goals.
What advice do you have for future students who are interested in completing the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology?
My biggest piece of advice is ask about the program. Talk to faculty, your field liaisons, or Dr. Galambos! You get into the program what you put out of it. So many learning opportunities become available when you join this certificate program. Ask questions and get involved!
Where is Megan Lacke now?
Megan Lacke is a care manager in the Family Care program at Community Care. She completed the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology along with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in Summer 2019.