Learning for the love of it

Ken Back

Are you 50 or older with a curious mind and a keen interest in learning? If so, consider joining with more than 1000 like-minded Tucson area residents who are members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arizona (OLLI-UA). OLLI-UA is a nonprofit membership organization that recognizes the unique experiences, capabilities and wisdom of mature members of the community. It emphasizes the sharing of ideas through peer learning, member participation and collaborative leadership. OLLI-UA operates out of four campuses including a northwest Tucson campus serving the SaddleBrooke, Oro Valley and Marana areas.

As a member you may choose from among an extensive array of courses/study groups in the liberal arts and sciences. Each campus has distinct offerings. You can renew your enthusiasm for learning in the relaxed atmosphere of OLLI-UA classes; the courses are peer taught, there are no entrance requirements, grades or tests. It’s your experience and love of learning that counts. Courses vary from one 90-minute session to multiple sessions over several weeks.

During class you’ll engage in discussions on course material, enjoy lectures or presentations from the instructor and contemplate life’s questions and answers. As one member recently stated, “Free from the pressures of tests and grades, this is simply learning for the joy of it.”

Registration for the northwest campus spring semester begins on January 23 and courses begin February 6. To learn more about OLLI-UA, plan to Discover OLLI-UA at 11:00 a.m. on January 23 at the Oro Valley Community Center (10555 N. La Canada Drive). For further information about OLLI-UA and to reserve your space at the Discover OLLI-UA orientation please visit their website at http://olli.arizona.edu/about-olli-ua or contact the OLLI-UA office at 520-626-9039.