Imagine a class where there is no homework and no test; it is learning for the joy of learning. Sounds too good to be true, right?
Well, McHenry County College’s Retired Adult Program (RAP) does just that.
Formed in the spring of 1998, the membership-based, noncredit program is designed for individuals aged 50 or better “who are active, inquisitive and have a genuine desire to continue learning,” according to a release regarding the program.
With MCC’s RAP program, students ‘50 and better’ can enroll in and enjoy an array of classes. (Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
“We try to think what would be of interest to our membership,” said Dori Sullens, continuing education director for the college. “We’re essentially looking for courses where they can’t go and get the information on their own or from someone else.”
Among the classes offered are “Fire Science & Investigations,” taught by the deputy fire chief of the Crystal Lake Fire Department; “Micro Lab: Infectious Disease Diagnosis,” taught by an MCC faculty member who is an expert in the subject matter, and “Arrowheads and Artifacts: The Native American Story.”
Hours for the classes vary. For instance, a class on history’s greatest voyages began January 13 and meets every Wednesday until the end of February.
“Some meet once a week, some every other week,” Sullens said. “Schedules vary based on the class and the topic.”
A full list of courses is available on the program’s website at mchenry.edu/rap, but Sullens noted any and all who want a physical copy should contact Sullens at 815-455-8559 and a hard copy will be mailed.
A one-year RAP membership carries a $25 fee and is renewable every July 1. Any and all can join the program at any point throughout the year by paying the fee, but will be required to renew his or her membership every July 1.
Faculty member Todd Culp discusses with RAP students his experiences in conflict zones around the world. (Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
Once a member, there is no limit to the number of classes one can take. While the program started with an aim at retired individuals, Sullens acknowledged that some may continue to be working in a part-time capacity. That is okay.
“If you’re 50 or older and love to learn, as well as be socially engaged, you can be a member of RAP,” she adds.
Members are also not bound by in-district or out-of-district fees because it is not for credit. Additionally, Sullens said they are always seeking new ideas for classes, adding she “would roll out the welcome mat” for any and all new ideas.
The classes are just one aspect of the program. About a year and a half ago, the college started taking educational field trips. These trips occurred at least once every semester, sometimes twice, to areas of interest such as the Northern Illinois University Anthropology Museum in DeKalb or the Coronado Theater in Rockford. The fee for those trips is a flat $25, according to Sullens.
“We’d love to have all of the folks [in Sun City] come up here and have everything that MCC has to offer, not just RAP,” she said.
For more information about the program, visit www.mchenry.edu/rap.
