Student Pioneers and Educational Innovations

Abstract

Summary Recruitment of students into gerontological social work is an increasingly important issue as the population of older adults grows. This article describes one initiative designed to aid in the promotion of geriatric social work: the University of Michigan's Geriatric Fellowship Program. Using qualitative in-depth interviews with 13 MSW Fellows as well as survey data of 219 MSW students, the authors examine the moti-vating factors that led students to specialize in geriatric social work and to apply for a geriatric fellowship. Family exposure to aging issues, “accidental” exposure through volunteer work, enthusiastic role models, job opportunities, and recognition of a social problem frequently instigated student's interest in gerontological social work. Incentives for application to the Geriatric Fellowship Program include: the unique field placement rotation model, financial support, individualized attention, group learning opportunities, and assistance with job placement. Directions for future recruitment efforts are discussed.

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