Culture and Education

Hi:

In his book Retire in Style, Dr. Warren R. Bland further delineates leisure into more specific categories. One of these is culture and education.

Cultural and educational opportunities are an extremely important consideration for many. The chance to visit fine musuems, art galleries and exhibitions add interest and learning. Attending plays, concerts, gallery openings, operas, and special events are fun and deeply satisfying.

Continuous learning is paramount for some, especially those with an intellectual bent.

When you consider moving to a new area, and culture has been a big part of your life, make sure there is a strong cultural base within that community. Also, you may have never had the time to develop knowledge of the arts or music in the past because of your busy lifestyle. As you retire, this may be an ideal time to do so.

M.

College and University Offerings for Seniors Low/No Cost

Hi:

So you've always wanted to study Greek Mythology, Philosophy, or Linguistics?


Many colleges and universities incorporate policies where seniors can attend courses free of charge, subject to class sizes. If classes are not full, seniors are welcome.


Some choose to audit a class, while other seniors do write the essays and take the exams. Auditing a class means no homework - you are free of assignments and exams, and can participate in class discussions.


There are valid arguments that you learn much more when you do the work. However, if you goal is to study topics that have interested you, but you don't want all that work, why not audit?


Most people are surprized by the community services available, of which few take advantage. Check out your local colleges and universities - you may be pleasantly pleased.

M.

Retirement and Continuous Learning

Hi:

Further to the thread of the last few days, choosing university towns are a fabulous choice for retirement. Universities provide a cornucopia of opportunities to participate at the edge of learning. Newly explored premises and findings on research can be fascinating.


Excellent programming exists in the continuing education offerings, often taught by leading professors in their field. Being an active member of a university community can be a great way to go.


Travel offerings include guided tours by professionals with specialized expertise in the topic. Examples of this are trips to the Galapagos, to Greece to study ancient civilizations, or to Europe to see the art of great cities and archeological ruins.


Cambridge University in the U.K. offers short courses during the summer months. The chance to learn, to meet with others from around the world, and participate in stimulating discussions cannot be equaled.


The most well-known grand-daddy of them all seems to be Elderhostel, with hundreds of tours every year. Participants are sometimes housed in university dorms and report the camaraderie gained from these trips is incomparable.


A focus on life-long learning adds to our appreciation of the world and its wonders.


M.