Photo by Christina Pompa

Seniors returning to school, again

A new program at Cal State Long Beach provides golden-aged adults with an opportunity to return to school.

"Senior University," the first of its kind on campus, offers a broad curriculum covering academic, creative, social and wellness pursuits.

"It's part of a movement across the country involving learning and retirement," said Sue Perisi, director of Senior University. "Just because they've retired doesn't mean they want to quit learning."

Perisi explained that the curriculum was created by the students in the program.

"They are also doing all of the teaching because it's about their issues," she said.

Senior University topics include current events, health issues, big band jazz, Tai Chi Chuan and computers.

"Computers are the number one interest," Perisi said. "Everybody wants to learn about computers."

The program is supported by students' tuition fees, $10 for each class and annual membership dues which are $25 per person or $40 per couple.

"The funds to run this program are self-generated," Perisi said. "They also received a small grant from my salary."

Benefits for members include voting privileges, access to the library and computer lab, special events, travel and tour opportunities and service on the Senior University governing council and committees.

The fall session classes are offered Monday through Thursday from Oct. 14 to Dec. 13 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. All classes are held in TE2-100. For more information about the program, call (310) 985-8237.