Last Saturday, on February 22nd, the Life Course Scholars returned to the Gary and Mary West Center to host the 5th annual Senior Prom. It was an incredible time, and I am truly sad that we were not able to have more allocated time for the event because we had so much planned. Right from the get go, the class worked hard to prepare the cafeteria and/or multipurpose room into a wonderful fairytale-esque setting. Some decorations that aided in setting this theme was by the making of a balloon arch, green vines, fairy lights, and white fairy lanterns. The class was able to gain a lot of support from local shops and restaurants that allowed for many different food options for the older adults. Also, the older adults enjoyed the salsa demonstration provided by the wonderful teachers from the UCSD Salsa Dance club. It was such an amazing time, and the three hours flew by. It was such an honor being able to provide a little extra fun event like a prom to the seniors, and it was apparent how appreciative they were for this event.
The following Wednesday, on February 26nd, the class was able to take a tour at Casa de Mañana- a retirement community located right along La Jolla Shores. The establishment overlooks beautiful scenery that encompasses the beach where adorable seals sun bathe all day long. The retirement community itself was so luxurious with its architectural style, its activities, the in-house activities, the various dining assortments, and amazing staff. Speaking of amazing staff, the class was able to get an inside scoop by a tour lead by the staff. It was also quite warming to see how as we walked around the different parts of the building, and see the staff and the members living there interact with one another. It really showed that they were really passionate about where they work, and only want to provide the best living space for their residents. Then, at the end of the tour, the students were lucky enough to be able to talk with some residents about their life. I was fortunate enough to talk with Ed who as he claims, “a master of all trades.” He shared with us many of his experiences in the army, his kids, and life advice. It was such a great experience talking to him, and would love to be able to speak with more residents when we return back to Casa de Mañana.
The following Wednesday, on February 26nd, the class was able to take a tour at Casa de Mañana- a retirement community located right along La Jolla Shores. The establishment overlooks beautiful scenery that encompasses the beach where adorable seals sun bathe all day long. The retirement community itself was so luxurious with its architectural style, its activities, the in-house activities, the various dining assortments, and amazing staff. Speaking of amazing staff, the class was able to get an inside scoop by a tour lead by the staff. It was also quite warming to see how as we walked around the different parts of the building, and see the staff and the members living there interact with one another. It really showed that they were really passionate about where they work, and only want to provide the best living space for their residents. Then, at the end of the tour, the students were lucky enough to be able to talk with some residents about their life. I was fortunate enough to talk with Ed who as he claims, “a master of all trades.” He shared with us many of his experiences in the army, his kids, and life advice. It was such a great experience talking to him, and would love to be able to speak with more residents when we return back to Casa de Mañana.