Cal State Fullerton’s Center for Internships & Community Engagement continues the Titans of Community Engagement video series, which highlights high-impact service-learning activities across campus.
The sixth video in the series centers on the Introduction to Aging Studies course. The course is taught by Karen Wong, lecturer in aging studies, and features a service component in collaboration with the Good Works Institute’s Project Life program. The partnership began 10 years ago when Wong was introduced to Phil Calhoun, Good Works Institute founder and executive director, and discovered a shared mission to serve the older adults of Orange County. Students in this course connect with older adults to provide companionship and support while learning from them about their lives, experiences and needs in later life.
The U.S. population is aging, driving demand for professionals with the understanding and expertise to address the needs of older adults. Through the Project Life initiative, students participate in weekly one-hour meetings with older adults over a 10-week semester. These structured interactions, facilitated in group settings, are guided by weekly themes and questions focused on topics such as ageism, biological and psychological aging, and social stereotypes. The objective is to cultivate genuine relationships while exploring the complexities of aging from multiple perspectives.
As the weeks progress, students begin to witness the evolution of these connections — initial conversations give way to deeper understanding and friendship. Participants not only learn about each other’s life stories and aspirations but also discover common ground that transcends age differences. Students report feeling surprised by how much they connect with their older partners, often describing the conversations as eye-opening and profoundly moving.
Throughout the experience, students reflect critically on their encounters, drawing on course material to analyze the interactions. They learn to challenge preconceived notions and stereotypes about older adults, and many gain a new appreciation for the richness of older individuals’ lives and experiences. For the older adults, the program offers a renewed sense of purpose and hope. Engaging with young adults, listening to their dreams, and sharing their own life lessons instills a feeling of being valued and seen.
Ultimately, involvement in Project Life leaves a lasting impact on all involved. Students emerge from the course with a deeper respect for the aging population and a recognition of the vital role older adults play in society.
Introduction to Aging Studies is a cross-listed course available in psychology, human services, sociology and public health. To learn more about Introduction to Aging Studies, contact Wong at kwong@fullerton.edu.
To learn more, visit the Project Life and the Good Works Institute website or call 714-612-0306.