Three years ago, Olga Morales Sanchez left Guatemala to build a better life in the U.S. Today, she’s making her dream of becoming a nurse come true – one step at a time, with help from her team at Coterie Cathedral Hill in San Francisco, an Atria Senior Living community.
Olga’s story shows that you don’t need healthcare experience to build a career in the field. What you do need is hard work, heart and the right place to grow – all of which she’s found at Atria.
From a new country to a new beginning
When Olga moved to the U.S. from Guatemala with her two children, she faced big challenges: learning a new language, understanding a new culture and getting used to new routines. But she brought something powerful with her – a strong will to succeed and a deep desire to help others.
She started working at Coterie as a housekeeper, where she quickly stood out for her excellent work and the genuine warmth she shared with every resident she met.
“I love seeing our residents smile when I help them,” Olga says. “Making their day a little brighter makes my day better too.”
Finding a path in senior care
While Olga has always enjoyed her housekeeping job, she’s had a bigger dream – becoming a nurse. When Olga realized her caring nature and positive attitude with residents could lead to more, she didn’t just keep dreaming. She started taking action toward her goal.
At Atria, that kind of career change isn’t unusual – it’s something leaders actively support and help with.
With her team’s backing, Olga is now:
- Studying English to improve her communication and confidence
- Enrolled in caregiver training to build practical healthcare skills
- Gaining hands-on experience by continuing to work directly with residents
- Balancing family and career goals with the help of a supportive team
“My dream is to become a nurse and help people feel better,” Olga explains. “At Atria, I’m not just dreaming – I’m doing something about it every day.”
Her journey shows that no matter where you start, there’s room to grow.
Why work at Atria?
Across more than 200 communities in the U.S. and Canada – including Coterie, one of our luxury brands – Atria is a place where motivated people can build careers that matter.
What made Olga’s transformation possible? The same things that set Atria apart for all our team members.
Leaders who see your potential
- Managers who notice your strengths and help you develop them
- Career coaching and mentorship opportunities
- Clear pathways for advancement across departments and communities
A community that supports you
- Coworkers who celebrate your wins and help you through challenges
- Flexible scheduling that works with your life
- A workplace culture built on respect and recognition
Work that makes a difference
- Direct impact on residents’ daily lives and well-being
- Go home knowing your contributions mattered
- Build meaningful relationships with residents and their families
Many people, like Olga, start in one role and find a clear path toward their long-held dreams. Whether it’s caregiving, culinary, life enrichment, operations or memory care – there’s an opportunity waiting for you here.
Is this the right fit for you?
You might thrive at Atria if you’re someone who values connection, wants stability with growth potential and finds satisfaction in work that directly improves people’s lives.
If that sounds like you, we’d love to meet you – whether you’re starting fresh or looking for your next chapter.
Ready to start your journey?
Olga’s story is just one example of how a career at Atria can change lives – not just for residents, but for team members, too.
Whether you’re applying to Coterie Cathedral Hill or another Atria-managed community near you, you’ll find a place where your contributions are valued and your growth is supported.
Ready to write your own success story? Explore opportunities now and discover where your potential can take you.