Maybe you're worried that your professional skills are falling a bit behind. Or perhaps you've always wanted to learn woodworking or knitting or conversational Japanese and have no idea where to start. Or maybe you're recently retired and looking for ways to keep your mind and body active while making some new friends.
The solution is simple, though not always easy: Take a class. Here are a few ways to get back in the classroom, whether virtually or in person.
* Check your local craft store. Big chains like Michael's or Joann Fabrics usually have single session and multi-session crafting and sewing classes available. Small mom-and-pop quilting and sewing shops may provide more advanced instruction or even blocks of unstructured time to socialize while you work on your own project.
* Visit your public library. Public libraries are much more than just books — most offer activities and classes for people of all ages. Your library card may also include access to online courses and webinars for everything from business to languages to university-style STEM classes.
* Research community colleges. If you're looking for a more traditional academic experience or want to work on a degree or certificate, look at community colleges near you. A number of states have drastically reduced or eliminated community college tuition to make it more accessible — check with your state's education agency for more information and eligibility requirements.
* Go virtual at your own pace. eLearning platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera and LinkedIn Learning don't offer accredited degrees or certificates, but can be a great and cost-effective way to pick up new skills at your own pace. Course quality can sometimes vary, so make sure to read reviews and look up instructors before you select a class and dive in.
