Promoting Careers in Gerontology to Students: What Are Undergraduates Seeking in a Career?

Abstract

The graying of the Baby Boomers has created a shortage of professionals in aging-related careers. However, colleges and universities with gerontology and aging programs face a challenge of recruiting students. The purpose of this study was to determine what students are looking for in a career and whether these attributes are congruent with careers in gerontology. Results of this study indicated that factors important to students in a future career include whether career is enjoyable, has adequate benefits, provides personal fulfillment, provides excitements, provides an opportunity to help others, is well respected by others, and provides opportunities for employment.

Keywords:

• academic
• academic gerontology
• college students