Ongoing Learning Opportunities
When I was attempting to figure out what to do with my life after my migraines got out of control, I took a look at going back to school. I went to check out a local college and found it ridiculously expensive. They didn’t take federal aid - but they were all too happy for me to fall into debt.
I chatted with my tour guide. As we spoke about what he was doing, I realized that as an author and researcher, I was already doing what he was describing - without the school debt.
My point is you don’t need a degree. We’ve been sold the story that a college degree makes you a more valuable member of society. However, the truth is that many people are not able to afford the college system, so they make their skills and pathways somewhere else.
I’ve been writing since I was in fifth grade. My writing skill set is growing, because I’m finding opportunities to use it. Are these career makers? Not always, but they are making a difference.
Your ongoing learning opportunities often show up in:
Volunteer efforts - pick a cause you like and find someone local who wants to fix a problem. It’s a great mental health opportunity and a community building exercise.
Seminars/lectures - these are everywhere too, online and in person. Look around for something that interests you. This is a community effort, just like volunteering.
Podcasts - like a radio broadcast or talk show. Pick a topic and you’ll probably find a podcast on it. Most are free. Some shows have extra episodes for fans that are behind a paywall.
Books - can be from online or physical libraries. Most are free.
Video Courses - yes, they’re still a thing, and Youtube can count as long as the person teaching has specialized knowledge or life experience in the topic
Online courses & Apps - numerous options here, all digital, all low or no cost. Duolingo would be a good example.
Open Courses - these are courses from various colleges and universities that are copyright free and can be used anywhere at low or no cost
Scholarships - I’ve found its best to ask even if you don’t see anything on their websites.
Speciality Learning Organizations - I got my ancient history degree from a school like this. It was started by ancient history scholar.
Professional Trade Organizations - I’m working on getting a Traumatic Stress Studies Certificate from a professional organization like this.
Some of these will offer certifications for low or no cost. If the tasks or topics interest you - you will make and take time to learn. You will also know what your learning style is, so you can figure out what resources will suit you best.
I want to leave you with the story of a money manager:
I apologize for not having names or details because I can’t find the article. But I think it was the father of Jaspreet Singh, (https://theminoritymindset.com) or Patrick bet David (https://www.patrickbetdavid.com).
This man’s family was an immigrant family. They escaped 1970s Iran (???) and ended up in New York City. His father drove a taxi cab for decades to feed his family… even though he was an experienced heart surgeon. He taught his son, “The regime took away my health practice. They took away my medical license. They took away our home. They tried to take away our freedom and our lives. But they didn’t take away my education or the skills that I learned. Even though I drive a taxi, I am still a heart surgeon, because no one can take those skills from me. I earned them. They are mine.”
His son is a major money manager who offered his father’s advice in an era where many people are uncertain about what to invest their resources in. He said, “Invest in yourself, your skills and your education. No one can take that from you.”
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