Make a Commitment to Lifelong Learning

As summer turns to fall, students across the country return to the classroom, ready to learn for another year. However, if you are a recent graduate or have not seen the inside of the classroom in years, your learning experience does not have to end. Here are a few steps you can take to keep your brain active:

Take up a new hobby: Challenge yourself to learn a skill that you have always wanted to try: knitting, salsa dancing, graphic design, whatever. Seek out online tutorials or how-to books from the library. Look for classes or skill-sharing workshops in your area; if your local library or community college does not offer the workshops you need, try looking to local businesses that support your desired hobby, or ask a talented friend to host a workshop.

Learn on the go: Do you want read more, or attend informative lectures, but find that you simply do not have the time? Try listening to an audio book while you commute or run errands, or watch a TED Talk while you do chores around the house.

Teach others: By volunteering as a tutor or mentor, you can share your knowledge with others and give back to the community. Also, tutoring others can help you brush up on skills you may have otherwise neglected. Contact your local library about mentoring opportunities in your area, or search for opportunities on Idealist.

Make learning a group effort: Sharing a learning experience with friends can help keep your curiosity alive and allow you to bounce your ideas off of someone else, so bring some friends together to start a book club or current events discussion group.

Plan a field trip: Looking to broaden your horizons and experience something new? Spend a weekend afternoon exploring a museum, planetarium, or science center. Take a notepad with you to jot down interesting new facts or inspiring ideas, and use those notes as a guide for further research.

These ideas are just a jumping-off point; through your passion and curiosity, you will find ways to create even more learning opportunities. Keep yourself open to new experiences and feel free to explore the world around you. Remember, learning does not have to occur inside the classroom, and the possibilities to expand your mind are limitless.


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