Alondra Trevizo, a senior at Cristo Rey Dallas, began her work-study student experience at Presbyterian Village North (PVN), a senior living community in Dallas, at age 16 during her junior year of high school. Through the college prep high school’s corporate work-study program, students like Alondra gain real-world experience while receiving the financial support of their job partners to contribute to their school tuition. Originally hoping to pursue a career focused on pediatrics, Alondra was surprised to be assigned to a retirement community, but she knew it was a great opportunity to learn something new. That mindset ended up changing her professional aspirations entirely.
Through her daily interactions with residents and teammates, Alondra discovered a passion for working with older adults. Her “lightbulb” moment came while assisting a resident during a vulnerable situation. She realized she could show up for someone with compassion, even in moments that felt uncomfortable. That experience helped clarify the kind of work she wants to pursue after college.
Alondra’s role at PVN varies day to day, but she consistently contributes her talents to the community’s “Wellness Intention Wall” located inside the fitness center. Here she shares original artwork, weekly wellness themes and reflections with residents. In addition to the support she provides the Wellness team, she also helps with community-wide activities and special events. However, her most valuable contributions to the community are the genuine relationships she has built with residents and teammates during her two years at PVN.
PVN Wellness Manager, Alex Plauche, shared this about Alondra, “She is such a bright light around this community and over the past two years, I’ve really seen her flourish. She’s just such an amazing person and we are so proud of her!”
Inspired by the Forefront Living mission to “make each moment matter,” Alondra says she’s learned to approach life with greater appreciation. Overall, the immersive work-study experience reshaped Alondra’s perspective about care. Working closely with senior adults gave her a better understanding of what it means to care for someone fully and how important it is to bring patience into that work.
Because of her time at PVN, Alondra is now pursuing a field she hadn’t considered before her work-study experience. This fall, she looks forward to attending Texas Christian University. She will study nursing with a focus on geriatrics, the same population who helped discover her path to purpose.
By Amee McGough
