Future Nurse Says Caledonia Nursing Home Gave Her the Right Experience

Name: Andrea Sommer
School: Horlick High School, Grade 12
Program: Health Youth Apprenticeship

What was your favorite part of YA?
I have enjoyed the outstanding work experience I have had working at Elizabeth Residence- Assisted Living Home in Caledonia. I have loved being able to help out the residents who need my care, and enjoyed the added responsibilities my employer has given me. The staff is all really nice too! It was great to see my supervisor writing stuff about what a responsible person I am when she did my last employee evaluation. Elizabeth Residence-Caledonia has provided me with extra training to be able to help pass some medications. This has all been an excellent experience that will help me to someday become an excellent nurse. 
What are your plans for next year? I will be attending UW-Oshkosh this September, and am planning on becoming a registered nurse through their program.

How has YA prepared you to be ready for a college or a career?
It has helped to grow me as a citizen through the community service projects I worked in to raise money for Diabetes research and for local hunger issues. I have also helped run Bingo games at nursing homes, been a volunteer for Special Olympics, and helped HALO with some of their holiday parties. I also enjoyed the Leadership Training I received through the ROPES Challenge course. I have a deeper depth of knowledge about health care issues, and my participation in two State Health Occupations Students of America state competitions and by being the HOSA president this year has all helped me to grow from these experiences. All of this has me feeling pretty confident that I’ll do well up at UW-Oshkosh.