Cookie decorating, soapmaking, cooking, yoga, dog training. What do all these things have in common? They’re all non-traditional, non-credit classes available within the
Lifelong Learning series at Mid Michigan College.
Lacey Badelt is the community relations specialist at Mid Michigan College, and oversees the Lifelong Learning series for campuses in Harrison and Mt. Pleasant.
Though the series has always been a part of the college, Badelt says in recent years, the series has received additional resources to continue the commitment. They’ve also listened to community feedback to learn more about what topics folks are interested in.
“Mid offers a rich variety of personal interest classes on campus and online,” she says. “From discovering a new hobby to staying informed, Mid has the class you’re looking for. Lifelong Learning encompasses a variety of offerings that inspire community members to try something new.”
“We have instructors that are experts in their respective areas and teach anything from Kung Fu to learning to play piano,” Badelt continues. “We offer creative classes such as Fun with Free Verse Poetry class and Stained-Glass Mosaic Planters, to practical classes such as Fit Kitchen Kickstart and Natural Soapmaking.”
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Courtesy Mid Michigan CollegeThe goal of the series reflects the larger mission of Mid Michigan College to offer opportunities to continue learning throughout all stages of life.
Badelt says some of the most popular classes are royal icing cookie decorating, basic and advanced skills dog training, and artistic welding.
“People love being creative and learning new skills—these classes represent each of those goals, are hands-on, and fun for all involved,” she says.
New offerings within the series this year include lifestyle classes such as exploring hygge, and homesteading skills like making sourdough from scratch. Some classes, like the basic and advanced dog training classes are even offered outside of the traditional classroom, off-site at Mt. Pleasant Tractor Supply Company.
These non-credit, nontraditional classes provide attendees the opportunity to focus on new skills, physical activity, practical applications, and creative pursuits. Some classes are one session, and others are weeks-long, ranging in price from $25 to $110.
These classes can also help foster curiosity, a deeper understanding and personal growth, says Badelt.
“Lifelong Learning is all about the learner,” Badelt says. “It is about branching out and meeting new people. It is about the opportunity to grow your knowledge of things you love or to be bold and discover a new passion in your life.”
“The sky’s the limit when it comes to learning throughout your life, and Mid Michigan College is honored to provide that opportunity.”
Lifelong Learning classes are available to anyone in the community. Registration is available
online.
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