Interest of Racially and Ethnically Diverse Social Work Students in Gerontological Social Work

Abstract

This article presents the results of research to identify factors contributing to the development of interest in employment in gerontological social work by undergraduate social work students who are diverse in age, ethnicity, immigration history, race, and life experiences. Recruitment and support of interest in gerontological social work of students who are bilingual and/or bicultural is essential to meet the needs of the increasingly larger and more diverse older adult population in the United States. The findings indicate that experiential learning and service opportunities including fieldwork and employment are especially important influences.