5 Ways to Keep Learning

By Siobhan Murray

Just because you graduated, doesn’t mean it’s time to stop learning. Educational and engagement opportunities abound at Oregon State, whether in person or in the virtual sphere. Here’s a breakdown of ways to learn, grow and connect with fellow Beavers.  

1. Enjoy science with a side of beer  

Nine times a year, OSU experts tackle questions like: free range or cage free eggs? Why do scientists and social justice warriors need Star Trek? What’s the future of craft beer? Even better, you can enjoy these thought-provoking presentations along with good food and drink. (There’s a virtual option for out-of-towners, minus the beer.) Access recordings of previous Corvallis lectures and learn about the upcoming Sept. 6 event at Old World Deli at beav.es/5uC. To learn about upcoming OSU-Cascades Science Pubs in Bend, visit beav.es/cascadepub.   

2. Get an insider look at public health challenges 

Deepen your knowledge of critical health issues and learn how to answer the challenge of lifelong health for all. The Public Health Insider webcast series is hosted by the OSU Alumni Association and OSU Foundation in collaboration with the College of Health. Public health experts demystify metabolism, grapple with caregiving for elders and early education for children, examine mental health challenges in Latinx and LGBTQ communities and more. Find an upcoming event and browse recordings of past ones at ForOregonState.org/PHI.

3. Ask early career questions  

The Ask Alumni series of virtual panels gives you the chance to connect with alumni, learn about their career paths and ask them questions, all while growing your professional network. As recent graduates, panelists are well-equipped to reflect on navigating today’s job market. The webcasts are especially beneficial for alumni trying to land a first job in their chosen field or anyone curious about working in a particular sector. Each event features a group of alumni in an industry, such as agriculture, recreation leadership or public service. Find a panel that’s suited to your professional goals at ForOregonState.org/AskAlumni.  

4. Listen in to OSU podcasts  

If you need something to listen to on your morning dog walk or daily commute, Oregon State University offers more than a dozen podcasts with insight into many areas of our community and mission. Some highlights: “Engineering Out Loud” explores how the college’s innovations are helping change the world, “In the Woods” brings the world of forests to listeners and “Beaver Sports” discuss in-depth sports topics with different voices of Beaver Nation. On the “What’s Next?” podcast, listen as host and College of Business graduate Cody Stover, ’15, explores the big dreams and ideas of ambitious Beaver alumni. Check out your options at oregonstate.edu/podcasts.  

5. Audit an OSU course for free  

Did you know that Oregon residents aged 65 or older can audit OSU courses at no charge, including Ecampus courses? Explore a new subject or build your existing knowledge by learning from faculty experts — without receiving a grade or credits. Those wishing to audit courses must first be admitted to OSU and submit an Audit Registration Form. Auditing opportunities are dependent on available space in the course. For more information, visit beav.es/audit.