Why Are More Retirees Going Back to College? : Shared by John Gilmartin

Back to school for pop pop.
Gramps will pay for time with someone who won’t call him ‘dear’ or ‘honey’.

John

Why Are More Retirees Going Back to College?

Sarah Bahr – The New York Times
Click here for the article

Summary
Across the U.S., at least 86 URCs now operate, linked to major institutions like Penn State, Michigan, and Stanford.

The boom reflects the educational attainment and social outlook of the baby boomer generation—wealthy, active, and eager for stimulation and purpose. Residents, many retired academics and professionals, often work as teaching or lab assistants, join campus programs, and attend classes alongside undergraduates.

At Arizona State University’s Mirabella retirement community, residents aged 62 and older live on campus, take classes, mentor students, and join university life. They pay entry fees starting near $500,000 and monthly fees above $5,000 for apartments in a 20-story tower. The model, now used at more than 80 U.S. universities, combines luxury senior living with lifelong learning and intergenerational connection.

Quotes
“Some of us are looking at 20, 30 more years. So we want to do something other than just play another round of golf.” – Andrew Carle, Georgetown University
“I took a Spanish class last semester with 12 teenagers. They were all very friendly and respectful.” – Cindy Adams, 76, Mirabella resident
“I’m not going anywhere. I just love it here.” – Roger Weinreber, 80, Mirabella teaching assistant