Our OMA Interns develop one-on-one relationships with our OMA artists (people living with dementia). Interns engage in weekly volunteer meetings and trainings, where they reflect on their experiences, and learn about the importance of intergenerational connections.












Student Interns and Volunteers needed for Spring 2023!
The Claude Pepper Center is seeking student interns and volunteers for the Opening Minds through Arts (OMA) program during the Spring 2023 academic semester.
As an intern, you will work closely with Dr. Dawn Carr (CPC Director), Suzanne Monroe Smith (program lead), and other program support staff. Interns will learn about dementia, work one-on-one with older adults living with dementia in a formal care environment in Tallahassee, help with coordination of the weekly art-making program, complete weekly journal entries, and complete a pre – test and a post – test. Participation includes at least five hours per week during the 15-week academic semester. The OMA internship may be completed for course credit for Sociology majors. For other majors, please contact Suzanne Monroe Smith to see if you are eligible for credit.
We are also seeking volunteers. Student volunteers will attend the OMA sessions, directly assist the OMA facilitator in guiding the art projects, deliver art supplies to participants, and interact closely with older adults living with dementia. Volunteers will be involved in OMA with a lower time commitment than interns, but still have immersive experiences with adults living with dementia.
Interested or curious? Please email pepper-oma@fsu.edu and we can answer your questions and/or set up a meeting. In your email, please clarify if you are interested in an internship or volunteer job, and please feel free to share your resume for potential selection as an intern.
Contact:
Suzanne Monroe Smith, OMA Facilitator
Email: pepper-oma@fsu.edu
