Looking for a job with tuition reimbursement? Atria provides full-time employees with up to $5,250 a year for approved courses toward degrees and certifications. See how Bistro Attendant Michael is using this benefit to return to school and grow his career at Atria Center City in Philadelphia.
Every interaction matters at Atria Center City in Philadelphia. Whether preparing a fresh cappuccino, welcoming residents by name or offering a warm smile, Bistro Attendant Michael P. approaches every day with the same goal: making life a little easier for the people around him.
“I’ve served this community for nearly three and a half years,” Michael says, “and I love it.” His path to Atria includes decades of experience in hospitality, customer service and real estate.
As a Bistro Attendant, those experiences come together in a senior living dining role that combines culinary skill with relationships he builds with residents.
What’s it like to work in senior living dining?
For Michael, preparing food and drinks is only part of the job. His mornings begin with what he considers the most important part of the day.
“I greet the residents personally each morning. I make sure I know each and every one of their names. I like to greet them on the way to breakfast and make sure they are comfortable and feel welcomed as they start their day.”
Michael prepares coffee and espresso drinks, pastries, paninis, pizzas and other menu favorites while creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The bistro is one of three dining venues in the community, and residents who miss a scheduled meal can stop by anytime for a grab-and-go option. Known around the community as “the Mayor of Center City,” Michael remembers residents’ usual orders and adds music and conversation to the bistro. Some stop by for a game of chess or checkers or simply to enjoy his company.
As Michael puts it, “I want them to feel upbeat and happy, with harmony, food, fun and a little music.”
How is senior living dining different from restaurant work?
“My job is to make my residents feel comfortable and to make their days easier and smoother,” Michael says. He brings that same attention to everything he does, whether he’s serving lunch, helping someone carry a tray or recognizing when a resident wants to chat.
Unlike a traditional restaurant, Michael has the chance to build lasting relationships with those he serves. “In restaurant work, I didn’t have those real and ongoing interpersonal relationships like I do with my residents.”
Because he sees the same residents each day, he can notice when someone may need extra support or simply appreciate a friendly conversation.
Does Atria offer tuition reimbursement?
Yes. Atria’s tuition reimbursement program provides full-time employees with up to $5,250 a year for approved courses toward degrees and certifications.
After talking with community leaders about his long-term goals, Michael learned about the program and decided to return to school. “I want to stay and grow with this company. Because they support their employees fully.”
The benefit has gone further than the base amount for Michael. He says it combines with a Pell Grant and a scholarship his school awards Atria employees – one free class for every five completed – bringing his total support to an estimated $15,000 over the past year and a half.
Michael has already earned his associate degree and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in Business Fundamentals, carrying a 3.91 GPA along the way.
“I applied for tuition reimbursement and within a week or two, I got a check for that first class.”
Going to school while working in the bistro is helping Michael prepare for the future. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology.
How does Atria support employee growth?
Michael says his community leaders encouraged him to pursue new opportunities while continuing to serve residents. His story shows what employee support can look like in practice:
- Career conversations with leaders who know his goals
- Tuition support for approved courses toward degrees and certifications
- The chance to keep gaining work experience while going to school
- Opportunities to build skills for future roles
Looking ahead, Michael hopes to move into a sales director role, supported by leaders he describes as “very nurturing when it comes to someone growing in their skills.” For now, he’s focused on adding to the skills he’s developing today.
“I believe that with the support this company provides, the possibilities really are endless,” he says.
That same optimism carries into every shift at the bistro. Michael knows a thoughtful conversation, a carefully prepared meal or a familiar greeting can make someone’s entire day a little brighter.
“I’m proud to say that because of this program, I have this opportunity,” Michael says. “I’d like to promote it to as many people as possible – this can be done.”
Explore careers at Atria
Michael’s story shows how a job at Atria can support both education and long-term career goals. Learn more about Atria’s employee benefits and search open positions near you.