Grow as a Leader in Hospitality Driven Senior Living
Solera Academy is a highly selective, paid rotational internship program designed for exceptional students interested in exploring careers in senior living. With a limited number of internship positions each year, participants gain hands-on experience across multiple departments while working on meaningful, real-world projects that support community priorities. Interns receive weekly mentorship, leadership development, and executive exposure throughout the program, culminating in a capstone presentation that showcases their growth, impact, and professional development.
Why Choose Solera?
At Solera Senior Living, we believe exceptional careers begin with exceptional experiences. Our hospitality-first philosophy, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to innovation create an environment where ideas are welcomed, collaboration is encouraged, and every team member has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Unlike larger organizations where interns may observe from the sidelines, Solera offers a culture of accessibility. You'll build relationships with leaders across the organization, gain insight into how strategic decisions are made, and become part of a team that values curiosity, initiative, and fresh perspectives.
Most importantly, you'll discover that senior living is about more than providing care—it's about creating meaningful experiences, building lasting relationships, and enriching the lives of older adults every day. It's an experience that not only prepares you for a successful career, but helps shape the kind of leader you become.
Our Values in Action
Our values guide the way we work and the connections we build with each other, our residents and our community.
Compassion
We lead with kindness and empathy, creating meaningful moments and a true sense of belonging.
Communication
We listen with purpose and communicate openly, fostering trust and strong relationships.
Creativity
We embrace new ideas and fresh perspectives to inspire solutions and enrich the experience.
Commitment
We are dedicated to excellence in all we do, showing up each day with integrity and shared purpose.
Explore Our Senior Living Communities
Locations Nationwide
With internship locations nationwide, Solera Academy gives students the flexibility to learn and grow wherever opportunity calls. Our program connects real-world experience with mentorship and career-building skills in communities across the U.S.
Application Requirements
All candidates must submit the following for consideration:
Resume
Cover letter
Two essay responses
One academic or professional reference
Internship availability (start date, end date, weekly availability)
Open Application Period:
2027 Summer Internship:
October 1, 2026 - February 1, 2027
Start Your Internship Journey With Us
Take the next step toward your professional future by applying to our internship program. Designed to provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and practical learning, this opportunity allows you to grow your skills in a real-world environment. For questions regarding the Solera Academy Internship Program, please contact Jason Villena at jvillena@soleraseniorliving.com
Intern Experiences
Hear from our interns, about their journey, growth and the impact they're making every day.
Maxwell Read, Columbia University - Political Science and Economics -
Internship at Modena Cherry Creek
As I reach the halfway point of my internship at Modena Cherry Creek, I want to reflect on what has stood out most so far. First, I've found the expert sessions, led by some of Solera's most experienced leaders, to be both informative and engaging. They've given me the chance to connect with the other interns stationed at communities across the country, and we’ve been building wonderful friendships. I've also thoroughly enjoyed the rotational structure of this program. Each week, I join a new department, learning the day-to-day work, getting to know the employees, and seeing how they interact with and support residents. I'm piecing together a fuller picture of what it takes to run Modena Cherry Creek and how it represents the best of what Solera is. Lastly, it's been incredibly inspiring to talk with all the staff about my final project. Every conversation adds a new perspective to my vision for what the future of queer senior living will be. It has been a pleasure and an honor to work here this summer, and I intend to make the most of the weeks I have left.
Veda Patel, George Washington University - Health Care Administration -
Internship at Hunters Woods at Trails Edge
I spent my internship at Hunters Woods at Trails Edge working with Carla Shipley and had the chance to learn from different departments throughout the community. My two main projects were creating the Recognizing YOU team member recognition program with Caitlin Daley and auditing the community’s HR files. One of my favorite parts of the internship was being able to work on projects of my own while also seeing what goes into running a senior living community day to day. Everyone at Hunters Woods was so welcoming and always willing to answer my questions, include me, and help me learn. I’m really grateful for the experience, and it has made me even more excited to continue working in senior living.
Britney Nguyen, George Washington University - Health Care Administration -
Internship at Modena Reserve Kensington
The team is so talented and kind-hearted. I have taken away many new skills, experiences and perspectives that will stay with me as I begin my career. This internship has truly been an unparalleled experience that I could not have replicated.
Priya Tandon, George Washington University - Health Care Administration -
Internship at Modena Reserve Bethesda
My internship with Solera Senior Living has been one of the most rewarding parts of my MHA program, giving me the opportunity to take on meaningful projects and gain firsthand experience in senior living operations. At Modena Reserve Bethesda, I conducted a competitive analysis of six assisted living communities, combining mystery shopper research with pricing and service comparisons, while also working directly with residents in memory care and assisted living, conducting interviews, and participating in resident and professional events. I also gained insight into hiring and team-building by sitting in on dining director and chef interviews and tastings, and worked closely with the Inspiren team to see how technology and data support resident care and safety. This experience showed me that senior living sits at the intersection of healthcare and hospitality, where excellence extends beyond quality care to every touchpoint of the resident experience—from initial tours and dining to the everyday interactions that make a community feel like home. Most importantly, I learned the value of combining data-driven decision-making with genuine relationships, shaping how I hope to approach healthcare administration in any setting. I am grateful to the Solera team for trusting me with meaningful responsibilities and giving me the opportunity to contribute and grow.
