In the vast landscape of academia, the allure of research may not always entice every student. Amidst the cohort of second-year master's students, individuals like MaKenna McClure stand out. Diverging from the traditional academic path, McClure aims to utilize the Masters in Gerontological Studies (MGS) program as a springboard toward the Administrator-in-Training (AIT) program. The AIT program offers an opportunity to pursue a career in long-term care administration, involving a registered internship lasting six months with a master's degree, on a full-time basis. This immersive internship supplies essential knowledge and skills for long-term care administration. 

During the AIT, participants immerse themselves in various areas of facility operations, including laundry, housekeeping, nursing, and the kitchen. The uniqueness of the AIT lies in its requirement for participants to learn about facility functioning. McClure asks, "How many other people can say that they have worked for every department in their organization?" She anticipates this comprehensive experience will benefit her future role in managing a building and fostering community development. 

Hailing from Ohio, McClure brings a wealth of knowledge to her studies, establishing herself as a standout applicant for the AIT program. Reflecting on the breadth of experiences gained from the MGS program, she acknowledges how it has afforded her a comprehensive perspective on long-term care. From policy courses delving into funding mechanisms to hands-on work at the Scripps Gerontology Center, McClure has gained invaluable insights into long-term care facilities. The mentorship of Robert Applebaum, Ph.D., has been instrumental in her career by facilitating connections with LeadingAge Ohio. There, she completed a summer practicum and established relationships with various long-term care communities. McClure's experiences have fueled her passion for long-term care, leading to her research focus on direct care worker retention—a critical concern in the field. Determined to make a difference, she aims to use her findings and put them into action to enhance the quality of care. 

Central to McClure's experience in the program is the emphasis on community. She highlights the invaluable connections made with peers and mentors, envisioning them as lifelong friends and professional contacts. McClure expresses confidence in her academic journey, noting the accessibility of professors, researchers, and peers for feedback and support. She credits the program for fostering her growth as a writer and thinker. Looking ahead, McClure anticipates staying connected to the gerontology community and witnessing the positive impact of their collective work in the field.

McClure, positioned to graduate in spring 2024 and embark on her career in long-term care and aging services, is driven by her passion. With a vision of eradicating the stigma surrounding long-term care, McClure is committed to ensuring that facilities and communities provide exemplary care for older adults. She advocates for fair treatment and wages for staff, recognizing their crucial role in delivering quality care. McClure sees herself as a leader in the next generation of gerontologists, dedicated to advocating for older adults and those who care for them. Her aspirations embody the spirit of compassion that helps define the future of gerontology. As McClure and her peers step into their roles, they carry a vision of a brighter, more equitable future for older adults worldwide.