A New Career Path for the New Year

Erin Johnson is a Resident Aide in Porter Hills Village’s Assisted Living and Memory Care Center and a recent graduate of Grand Valley State University with a major in allied health science. This fall, she began an Accelerated Second-Degree program to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN)—thanks to your support of the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation’s Team Member Scholarship program.

“I was elated to learn I was selected to receive a UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation Scholarship, and I am endlessly grateful for your support,” says Erin. “Thanks to your donation, I can fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a nurse.”

Combined with her studies, Erin has worked at Porter Hills Village for more than a year, working every other weekend, first shifts, and picking up hours when she doesn’t have class. “Working at Porter Hills Village is good practical experience for me,” says Erin.

Her scholarship from the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation is taking a big weight off her shoulders, helping her focus more on her classes and less on how to pay for them. She also continues in her role as a Resident Aide, where she loves getting to know the residents. 

“For me, personally, I have an older family, and my grandparents passed away when I was younger,” Erin explains. “Now I have so many grandparents with the residents I serve. Hearing their stories and life lessons is super special to me.”

For those considering a career working with older adults, Erin is enthusiastic: “I would tell them to 100% go for it! I have loved my experience. Originally, I had considered pediatrics, but working with older adults has change my viewpoint. Keep your options open!”