At SPS the Bucks...
- Audited classes in many subjects
- Took advantage of the Lifelong Learners Discount
- Contributed insights from their life experience
- Pursued a passion for New York History
- Joined an intellectually stimulating community
What brought you to Columbia?
After fifty years of marriage, we decided to move from New Jersey and live in New York City full-time,” says Mary Buck. Adds Walter, “The city offers a lot of opportunities, one of which really appealed to us, and that’s the Columbia Lifelong Learners program.
What kinds of classes have you been taking?
Everything from New York City History,” says Mary, “to Jose Moya’s Barnard class on World Migration.” According to Dr. Moya, the Bucks and other auditors offer something invaluable. “They contribute a type of diversity, generational, that often goes unnoticed in universities. Their intellectual curiosity and passion for learning are contagious.
Does what you study connect to your life experience?
It really does. My time in the military helped me participate in Dr. Jackson’s Modern Warfare class,” says Walter. “In fact, there were a number of veterans there who served in Vietnam and Iraq. We had a chance to speak about our experiences. This was really intellectually stimulating.” Adds Mary Beth, “I’ve been a docent at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, so I’ve really enjoyed Art History.
Do you feel part of the Columbia community?
Says Walter, “We enjoy our classes, and the time we get to spend with bright young Columbia students. They are so honest, dedicated and smart.” Adds Mary Beth, “Columbia people are open minded. Students tell me they’ll recommend this option to their parents. The brain is a muscle and you have to use it. Prioritizing intellectual curiosity is a way to approach later years with vigor."
