Growing old is a privilege that not everyone gets to experience. As we age, we gain wisdom and experience that can enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. Higher education can be a powerful tool to enhance this privilege.
One of the biggest benefits of growing old is that we have a better sense of what truly matters in life. With age, we tend to focus on the things that bring us the most joy and fulfillment. This can include spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and engaging in activities that give us a sense of purpose. Higher education can be a great way to explore new interests and continue to learn and grow as a person.
Another privilege of growing old is the opportunity to share our knowledge and experience with others. Whether it’s mentoring younger generations or volunteering in our community, we can make a positive impact on the world around us. Higher education can provide us with the skills and knowledge we need to be effective leaders and advocates for change.
Finally, growing old can give us a new perspective on life. As we age, we may come to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and find joy in everyday moments. Higher education can help us develop a deeper understanding of the world around us and inspire us to make a difference in our communities.
As famed actress Ingrid Bergman once said of aging, “Getting old is like climbing a mountain; you get a little out of breath, but the view is much better!”
Commit to a Lifetime of Learning
Learning is a lifelong commitment that has some of the best benefits for your overall happiness, health, and well-being. Keeping up on areas that interest you and learning about new subjects has a way of keeping us young, even as we age.
We’ve gathered the top four reasons why it’s important to continue your academic journey:
- Lifelong learning nurtures curious minds and keeps you up-to-date in a constantly changing world.
- Taking courses will help you build new skills, and improve those you already have!
- Wisdom comes with age, but not without some help, and continuing your education will open your mind to new perspectives and opportunities.
- When you commit to lifelong learning, you’ll see an improvement in your memory and self-esteem!
Explore the Osher at SDSU Lifelong Learning Institute
If you have dedicated yourself to lifelong learning, you may benefit from taking the next step with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at SDSU and joining our vibrant, inclusive community of like-minded peers.
Osher at SDSU is a non-profit education program designed for adult learners aged 50 and better who want to fuel their passion for learning, develop new interests, and share a forum for friendship and socialization. Each year, Osher hosts intellectually stimulating classes, interest groups, local trips, and special events for our members.
The best part? There are no tests, grades, or attendance requirements – just the joys of learning, connectedness, and personal fulfillment.
We offer Osher courses on a wide range of topics, ranging from aging finance and retirement to the arts and humanities, personal development, politics, religious studies, and sciences, so you’re sure to find something that interests you. Osher courses are taught year-round, both online and in person on the SDSU campus and other locations.
Growing old is a privilege that comes with many benefits. Higher education can help enhance this privilege by providing us with opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive impact on the world around us. Whether we are pursuing a degree or simply taking a class for personal enrichment, education can be a valuable tool for enhancing our lives as we age.
