Four Ways to Become a Lifelong Learner By Myriah Strivelli

“Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.”

― Albert Einstein

Studies show that those who actively pursue knowledge throughout their lives are more likely to be healthy, wealthy, and happy (Moeller). Here are four ways you can increase your knowledge:

1) Learn beyond the typical classroom setting 

Did you know that there are thousands of free online courses that are offered from prestigious schools such as Yale and Columbia? Open Culture is one website in which you can access over 1,000 college-level non-credit courses, audiobooks, e-books, and more, free of charge!

Also, HCC offers many continuing education courses for career enhancement, personal enrichment, and special interests. These classes provide a fun way to meet people and learn new skills for a reasonable cost. They offer courses in allied health, creative arts, public safety, special interests, and more. Look at the continuing education schedule on the HCC website to find out more information! (Workforce Continuing Education).

Check your local newspaper for free or low cost activities. You may want to join a group, such as a book club, a Spanish club, or a church. Click on this link to view a list of student organizations at HCC. (Student Clubs and Organizations).

2) Always have reading material on hand

There are most likely many times throughout the course of your day when you have extra time to squeeze in some reading, such as when you are waiting in line at the grocery store or stuck in traffic. Read a variety of materials including magazines, blogs, comic books, books, newspapers, fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Take advantage of the library for free resources. Improve your vocabulary by learning the meaning of new words. When you come across a word you don’t know, look it up!

3) Write a bucket list of things you want to learn

Write a list of things you would like to learn in your lifetime. This will give you goals and help you understand yourself better. Choose one or two priorities to work on at a time, as to not overwhelm yourself. Create a timeline, and break it up into small steps to reach your goals. Be realistic with yourself to avoid disappointment. 

4) Surround yourself with others who are passionate about scholarship

It is a great privilege to associate with people who actively seek knowledge. When you surround yourself with intelligent people, you will be challenged to succeed to a higher level. Being around those who have room to grow will also be fulfilling, as you can help them along their learning path. Keep up with the news and current events, and you will always have something to converse about. Lastly, stay tuned with the Learning Support Services blog and Facebook page to read informative articles and to connect with a scholarly community.

Please share some of your favorite ways to incorporate learning into your daily routine!

Works Cited

Moeller, Philip. “Why Learning Leads to Happiness.” US NEWS & WORLD REPORT. April 10,

            2012. Web. 9 October, 2014.

Open Culture. 2006-2014. Web. 9 October, 2014.

“Student Clubs and Organizations.” Haywood Community College. 2003-2014. Web. 9 October,

            2014.

“Workforce Continuing Education.” Haywood Community College. 2003-2014. Web. 9 October,

            2014.