Nursing homes begin to accept new senior patients
With CMU in the top 15 of the US News National Universities Rankings, students are looking for ways to leverage their school’s newfound reputation to prepare for the post-college lives. “Before, I was worried I’d have to live out my final days in the eighth best nursing home in my city, but now I’m sure the fourth or even third might let me in,” said Edith Soon, a junior with an undeclared major in Dietrich.
The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) has taken note of the excitement and is working to address student needs. CPDC Director Sean McGowan told Readme, “A larger number of students are beginning to look at more selective assisted living facilities and we intend to provide as much support as we can. After all, a good nursing home is an important first step for success in life.”
CPDC now offers counseling on when to move into assisted living, how to get along with other seniors, and what to do if your children get divorced and you no longer qualify for financial assistance. “63% of the 2026 senior class is in off-campus assisted care,” McGowan said. “So this is a top priority for us.”
The advent of AI has also opened new opportunities for students. Brianna Trooper, a senior in policy management, is using LLMs to prepare for nursing home applications. “I’ve been using AI as much as possible on all my assignments. AI psychosis is something that retirement homes are looking for, so I’m trying to use my mental faculties as little as possible.”
While most new graduates aim to get into a comfortable retirement home after a fulfilling career, it’s not the only way. Some are instead hoping to get into the United States Senate in their 70s or 80s to ensure a lasting legacy, despite almost universally having worse afterlife outcomes.