It has been years since I graduated from the University of South Florida. But I clearly recall thinking in my senior year, “I will always pursue learning. It will not end at graduation.” Even now, in my AARP years, I seek classes and other forms of continuing education in order to stay sharp.
Several years ago, I learned about the Senior Scholars program at the Rath ConNEXTions Center in Lakeland. Speaking with the executive director, Rosemarie Lamm, I learned they have talented and devoted volunteers who teach classes ranging from computer skills to conversational Spanish. There are usually two semesters per year, each six weeks long. Each class is about two hours per week. Some are free; most are $50.
This year I joined the volunteer instructors and will teach “Age and Enlightenment: Let’s Get This Aging Thing Right!” beginning the week of Jan. 29. Imagine the mental stimulation that comes with preparing this new class. It is thrilling.
This semester Rath will have classes in calligraphy, "A Matter of Balance," Retirement to Re-fire-ment," life writing/publishing and historical anthropology, in addition to the popular computer and Spanish. Some classes are taught at Family Fundamentals and others are taught at Florida Southern College.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, better educated adults are healthier for a longer time and better off economically. No surprise there. At the very least, learning is a lifelong adventure that ensures continued intellectual and personal growth.
If you are older than 50 and a lifelong learner, please check out the Rath ConNEXTions Center’s Senior Scholars classes. To register or for more information, contact Rath at rathsrconnextions@gmail.com or (863) 686-1221, ext. 256.
Gail Bagley, Lakeland