Starting in a part-time role, one team member built connections with residents and grew into a leadership position. Her story shows how careers in senior living can develop at Atria.
Some people spend years searching for their calling. Nicole S. knew hers immediately after high school, when she began work as a home health aide. At that time, Nicole found purpose in her passion for working with older adults and supporting their daily lives.
Today, she works as the Engage Life Director at Atria Bay Shore in Bay Shore, NY, an assisted living and memory care community. Her impressive journey shows that when passion meets opportunity, careers can grow in meaningful ways.
A passion that started early
Nicole’s connection to seniors didn’t begin in a senior living community – it began in their homes. When working as a private in-home aide, she built one-on-one relationships with those she served.
“I love seniors. I love hearing their stories and their histories. And I just connect well with older folks. I always have,” Nicole says warmly.
Her comfort with seniors became the foundation of a career that has taken her through multiple roles in senior care and senior living. In every position she’s held, she’s showcased the compassion for seniors that she learned as a home health aide.
Finding her home at Atria
Nicole joined Atria Bay Shore in a part-time capacity in December 2019. She first worked as a Life Guidance Program Instructor in memory care and then as an Engage Life Program Instructor in assisted living, both recreation-focused roles.
That work gave Nicole regular face-to-face time with residents. Even when her schedule shifted to per diem for a period of time, she stayed closely connected to the community, regularly picking up shifts and continuing to build relationships with residents and team members. During this period, she made sure to stay connected to Atria and never lost sight of where she wanted to be.
Stepping into a new role
After a period of working flexible, as-needed shifts while also gaining experience at other senior living communities, Nicole returned to Atria Bay Shore full-time a year ago and stepped into a leadership role. The opportunity came through word of mouth from colleagues who knew her well and understood that Nicole would be a great fit.
The promotion shifted her work in a fulfilling way. Nicole now plans, schedules and produces the full calendar of events for residents. Because of her good work, residents enjoy weekly outings, themed social events and on-site entertainment that support engagement, connection and overall well-being in senior living.
Planning with purpose
As Engage Life Director, Nicole schedules a calendar shaped by resident input. She hosts community planning meetings where residents share what they’d like to do, helping ensure programs reflect their interests and preferences.
With a smile, Nicole recalls a standout event this past year – a petting zoo that brought the whole community together.
“I had a big petting zoo come, and the residents loved it. They enjoyed the animals and being outside. Some family members came and sat on blankets on the grass. It was just such a nice day,” Nicole says.
Connection behind the scenes
The shift from running programs to directing them has deepened the nature of Nicole’s connection to residents.
“I feel like I connect with them more in hosting those meetings,” she says. “In making events happen for them, I’m connected with them differently than when I was running the programs myself.”
Her work reflects how Engage Life® programs in senior living communities help residents stay active, social and connected.
Looking toward a bright future
Nicole’s goals are clear: keep growing, keep learning and stay close to the residents who inspire her work. Whatever professional opportunities arise, Nicole plans to be ready. Right now, she’s focused on mastering every part of her current role, which she loves.
“This type of work is my passion. I’m so happy to be at this community in this role. Making the seniors happy has always been my goal. And being with Atria gives me that opportunity,” she says.
Nicole’s journey is a reminder that careers in senior living aren’t just jobs – they’re a chance to do work that truly matters. And at Atria communities, professional growth can happen at every stage.
Where your work can lead
From part-time roles to leadership positions, careers at Atria can grow with you. See how your experience and passion can make a difference.