Back to School for Adults

As school children across the metro area strap on shiny new shoes and sturdy backpacks to head back to school, adults are left with some free time to learn something new on their own.

Classes and courses for adults generally bring up images of continued education or MBAs, but many grown-ups are finding courses offering everything from dance to jewelry-making to cooking and more. For those dreaming of learning a new hobby or skill, the metro area offers dozens of classes for every interest. Now is the perfect time to go back to school. Check out these four fun courses just for grown-ups.

Get Cooking

Ever wanted to learn how to make the perfect sushi roll? Thought about creating those sweet and mystical dessert concoctions you only see at fancy restaurants or cooking up an exotic Thai dish?

At Francis Tuttle Technology Center, adults can enroll in cooking classes that cover all the flavors of the world. In addition, new this year, students can also audit the culinary school professional courses to pick up cooking techniques taught to aspiring chefs.

“Everyone likes someone who can cook,” said Marc Dunham, director of culinary arts at Francis Tuttle. “Beyond that, it’s a never-ending educational process and it’s never dull. We have a ton of classes, but the dessert, pastry and bread classes are very popular. Sushi class fills up quickly, too.”

Students ranging from young adults to senior citizens can explore a world of tastes without ever leaving the country. Classes range from Taste of India to making Baba Ghanoush to Filipino cooking. “People like to branch out and try different cuisines,” Dunham said. “You get the chance to explore the world without having to actually take the trip. Cooking classes are extremely popular.”

For more information, visit francistuttle.edu/classofferings and click on the adult and career development link for a catalog view.

Need for Speed

If you’ve ever dreamed of driving a real racecar on a real racetrack as fast as you want, you’re in luck.

Hallett Motor Circuit in Jennings, OK, offers small classes with experts on racecar and racetrack driving. Whether you’re just looking for a thrill or wanting to become a serious competitor, the Hallett Racing School lets you get behind the wheel of Spec Racer Fords for the High Performance Driving School.

Even if you don’t become a NASCAR star, the school also improves everyday driving skills. In fact, the most important part of the school is teaching students how to handle a car properly.

The car, the proper safety equipment, fuel, tires, instruction, on-track experience, lunch and a framed certificate upon successful completion are all included in a course.

“People who come to the school love the thrill,” Stephens said. “Adrenaline is the most natural drug in the world.”

For racetrack information or class details, call 918-356-4816 or visit hallettracing.net.

Pottery Pastime

For many adults, taking an arts class just for fun could seem like a mere luxury. At the Edmond Fine Arts Institute, however, flexible classes and skilled instructors make learning an art like pottery a fun and challenging endeavor for adults.

Tim Louis Haller Jr., the pottery instructor, says adults can learn to make a simple coffee mug or cylinder piece on a spinning wheel or a slab roller in as little as one to three classes.

“You can choose to do a one-time class for up to six weeks,” said Haller. “We have students who repeat, but we make sure to add on to techniques they already know. For absolute beginners, we start with the basics of using two techniques, and then we build up to composite pieces like tall vases or teapots and then experiment with glazing and other techniques.”

“This class is popular with families, teens, couples and retired individuals,” he said. “We help you along every step of the way.”

For information or to enroll, visit edmondfinearts.com or call 340-4481.

Etiquette for Execs

Today’s professionals can boost their career and personal relationships with a few simple classes and tips on proper behavior in work settings, networking events and business meetings. Research shows that 85% of success in the business world is based on soft skills like etiquette while only 15% rests on technical skills.

“Many people do not take the time to invest in the most critical part of their professional training, the crucial social skills that enhance your ability to communicate, negotiate and lead,” according to Carey Sue Vega, founder of Expeditions in Etiquette.

The Executive Success Series is for action-oriented, self-motivated professionals. It’s a three-part, once-a-month class that focuses on the proper etiquette for formal business dinners, daily business and the oh-so-nerve-wracking networking event.

“The workshops give you the tips and tricks and tools to make more meaningful business relationships,” said Vega. “If you know what to do, then you can focus on business instead of worrying which fork to use.”

Although registration for the current series closed Aug. 31, those interested in enrolling can email info@ExpeditionsInEtiquette.com or visit expeditionsinetiquette.com.