This article describes the R15, Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) mechanism available through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for institutions that do not typically receive substantial NIH funding. Equipped with training received at the St. Scholastica National Institute on Social Work and Aging, I was able to secure AREA funding for a project examining turnover and retention among home care workers in Maine. Increasing research experience of students was a primary aim on the project, as is required with R15 awards. Student activities on the project and student perspectives on their learning outcomes are described followed by reflections on the benefits and challenges of engaging students in research on aging.