Gabriella Niedbala, a student pursuing a with dual concentrations in aging sciences and has been named one of two recipients of the 2025 Better Living for Seniors Hillsborough Scholarship.
Each year Better Living for Seniors awards a $1,000 scholarship to a Hillsborough County student who is enrolled in a post-secondary program in preparation for a career working with older adults.
Niedbala said the recognition affirms both her academic path and her commitment to serving older adults.
鈥淏eing named a Better Living for Seniors Hillsborough Scholarship recipient is both deeply meaningful and incredibly motivating,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ot only does this scholarship make me feel as though my work to the aging community is recognized, but it was also a meaningful moment to recognize the impact the older adult community has had on my life and academic and future career.鈥�
A lifelong Tampa Bay resident with aspirations of becoming a nurse, Niedbala said she chose USF for its strong health care presence and opportunities to work with older adults. Her respect for the aging population has guided her academic choices, volunteer work and leadership roles.
鈥淚 have always carried deep respect for the aging community,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hile I knew that not many people may be pursuing my concentration of aging sciences, I was still determined to make a difference in the local aging community.鈥�
In addition to clinical interests, Niedbala is pursuing health care administration to better understand the systems that support long-term care and senior services. She said she hopes to one day hold a leadership role in health care management.
鈥淢y experience at USF has greatly shaped my interest in serving older adults through its strong emphasis on public health, community engagement and evidence-based practice,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the aging population and the importance of prevention, equity and advocacy.鈥�
Looking ahead, Niedbala plans to pursue a nursing career focused on senior care and to advocate for policies and programs that promote dignity, independence and holistic well-being for older adults.
鈥淪upporting the aging population is an important public health priority as the number of older adults continues to grow,鈥� she said. 鈥淏y prioritizing prevention, education and community-based engagement, we can reduce isolation, improve health outcomes and strengthen intergenerational connections.鈥�
Niedbala also serves as co-president of at USF, an organization focused on enhancing the quality of life for older adults, as well as outreach ambassador for Medi-Futures and head of marketing for the Health Policy and Advocacy Coalition.
Her advice to other students interested in aging services or health care administration is to seek hands-on experience early and remain committed to service.
鈥淲orking with the aging population is rewarding, but it is essential to stay passionate, patient and service oriented,鈥� she said. 鈥淢ost importantly, invest your time in something that is making a positive change.鈥�