Geriatric Scholarship Program

Armed with an undergraduate degree in Social Work and Gerontology, Katrina Dale entered the workforce, first as a group unit leader at a psychosocial rehabilitation center, and then as support coordinator for mentally and physically disabled clients at a social service agency.

The real-world experience she gained in these two positions convinced her that a childhood dream of working with geriatric patients was indeed the reality she was meant to pursue. But Dale knew she needed to broaden and develop her skills even further if she was going to make a meaningful impact in the rapidly growing field of gerontological social work.

“In all areas of social work, you really have to be a Jack-of-all-trades. Because I entered the Geriatric Scholars program with my BSW, I’m exempt from some of the required MSW courses. This allows me to develop myself in other areas, such as Mental Health and Interpersonal Practice. Oftentimes mental health issues are masked by natural aging challenges that occur. It’s crucial that I’m able to engage with my patients and identify those issues so that I can meet a patient’s needs.”

The Geriatric Scholarship program at U-M exposes me to lectures, programs, and volunteer opportunities that I would not have otherwise. I’m honored to sit with actively dying patients at Arbor Hospice every month. I am so lucky to be able to be there for these incredible people at the end of their lives.

Dale’s field placement is with the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit. She works with veterans and their caregivers, conducting individual and group therapy sessions, as well as engaging in community outreach to promote the center’s services within the community.

“I’m thrilled to have been chosen for this internship at the VA Medical Center because working with veterans is near and dear to my heart. I am the product of two military parents who served our country.”

Dale is also earning her Specialist in Aging Certificate, a program that draws upon the resources and course offerings of Literature, Science, and the Arts, and the Schools of Public Health, Law, Pharmacy, and Social Work.

“The Geriatric Scholarship has provided me with the ability to focus wholly on my academics, and not have to take on such a heavy financial burden. I’m also receiving assistance to attend geriatric-specific conferences and workshops. Without financial help, I wouldn’t have the opportunity or the money to participate in these enriching activities that benefit me as a future social worker.”