Katharine Magyar
Miami University
2019
“Throughout the duration of this program, I met many of the people who have helped shape the field of gerontology and aging into what it is today.”

During the Spring of 2019, I was able to be one of the participants of the Ohio Scholars in Aging program. Throughout the duration of this program, I met many of the people who have helped shape the field of gerontology and aging into what it is today. These people work to give voices and rights to those who may not be able to for themselves. Those who are advocates at the Ohio Department of Aging as well as the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education work tirelessly every day to lessen the stigma of aging within our society.
I consider myself to be extremely lucky to have been a part of two large scale research projects mandated by the Ohio Department of Aging and administered through Scripps Gerontology Center here at Miami University during my senior year. The Family Satisfaction Survey and the Biennial Survey of Long-Term Care both gather data for further research as well as to inform the general public about these facilities. For the Family Satisfaction Survey, over 100,000 family participants were asked a multitude of questions in order to determine their thoughts and opinions surrounding the care of a family member. The Biennial Survey asked administrators a series of questions regarding staffing, financial information and residents. The Family Satisfaction Survey and the Biennial Survey of Long-Term Care both allowed me to put my knowledge to use outside of a classroom. I was able to see how timelines for large-scaled research projects work and how much goes on behind the scenes. Both of these surveys taught me countless lessons and skills, affirming just how much the field of aging means to me.
Throughout my time as an Ohio Scholar in Aging, I was able to make connections outside of my network at Miami University. Everyone involved in this program was extremely supportive and helpful. I loved being able to meet other passionate students from different universities in Ohio and share how important the study of aging. I am extremely excited to continue my education at Miami University through the Master of Gerontological Studies program starting in the Fall of 2019.

