Alyssa Farley
Responsibilities
Plan and instruct evidence-based group fitness classes for older adults across multiple levels of care. Modify exercises to accommodate varying mobility levels, medical conditions, and functional abilities. Foster a safe, engaging, and supportive exercise environment while promoting healthy aging. Assist with planning and facilitating health promotion events and awareness campaigns. Collaborate with an interdisciplinary wellness team to deliver engaging resident programming. Encourage resident participation and provide support during community events. Research current health and wellness topics relevant to older adults. Create and present educational programs using evidence-based research. Lead resident discussions and answer questions in an engaging, accessible manner.
Accomplishments
My greatest accomplishment was becoming confident and independent in leading wellness programming for older adults. By the end of my internship, I was teaching up to 14 exercise classes per week across independent living, assisted living, memory care, and Parkinson’s support groups, adapting each session to participants’ abilities. I also independently completed wellness assessments for new residents and developed individualized exercise plans. Seeing my growth from relying on notes to confidently leading classes and earning enough trust to be offered a PRN/contract role was the clearest sign of my professional development.
Learning experience
The greatest lesson I learned was that effective health promotion is about building relationships just as much as it is about providing education or exercise. I learned how important it is to adapt programs to meet individuals where they are, communicate clearly with people of varying physical and cognitive abilities, and remain flexible when plans change. I also gained confidence in taking initiative, collaborating with an interdisciplinary team, and recognizing that small, consistent interactions can have a meaningful impact on residents' health, independence, and overall quality of life.
What advice would you give?
My advice for future students is to take every opportunity to gain hands-on experience. The classroom provides a strong foundation, but internships, volunteering, and job shadowing are where you develop confidence, communication skills, and professional judgment. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone, ask questions, and accept feedback. Building relationships with supervisors, coworkers, and clients is just as important as developing technical knowledge. Finally, stay open to unexpected opportunities; you may discover career paths and interests you never considered before.