At 19 years old, I finally got the first job of my life this summer. After applying to more than twenty places, Heritage Commons Retirement Community had an opening, and I took it. The opening was in the DayTymersSocial Club, an adult daycare program for senior citizens who have early memory loss, or simply just need some company during the day. I help with the planning and executing of various activities throughout the day, as well as serving them lunch, and snacks as well. Besides working with the DayTymers, I also went to concerts with residents of Heritage, and did any other small jobs or requests needed of me.

This job has molded me into a better version of myself, and taught me valuable lessons I will carry in me and teach to others for the rest of my life.

1. Lunch time is the best time

Do not disturb them while they eat their lunch, it's one of their favorite parts of the day. Nothing beats kicking back and relaxing for a few minutes, before its time to clear their plates once again.

2. Family always comes first, no matter what

Blood is thicker than water after all.

3. Fall in love and don't let that love go

One DayTymer only dated one man, and ended up marrying him and living her happily ever after. When we find a love as beautiful as that, we should never let it go.

4. Don't be afraid to be sassy

If sass is a part of who you are, embrace it. A little spunk is good for the soul.

5. Don't spend life on the sidelines. Get up and dance like no one is watching.

As silly as you may feel in the moment, memories like that will never be forgotten.

6. Dessert is essential

Forget the main meal, dessert is what really matters. Hello, homemade cookies and fudgy chocolate cake goodness.

7. A laugh a day keeps your problems away

Don't forget to laugh. It's better to have laugh lines than frown lines.

8. Elvis Presley will always be the GOAT

Seriously, we listen to him constantly and it never gets old. Having a bad day? Pop in some Elvis and shake those hips... with discretion, of course.

9. In a world full of plastic copies, just be your true, original self

We were born the way we are for a reason. Changing yourself to fit in with what the world deems "beautiful" is a leap in the wrong direction. People who never change to find happiness are always the happiest, while those who change never truly find it.

I wouldn't trade this experience for the world, and can't think of a better way to have spent my summer.