A: Study, Activity, Growth and Enrichment, Learning in Retirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of courses are offered?
A: Topics for study / discussion groups are submitted by members and reflect member interests. Typical categories include History, Science, Economics, Music, Literature, Film, Art and Travel.
Q: How many courses can I take?
A: As many as you want. We recommend new members start with one or two to determine the time commitment and add on from there.
Q: How many days does SAGE LR meet?
A: Sage has four quarters per year. Each quarterly session lasts from 7 to 8 weeks and offers 12 study groups. Each study group meets once a week for two to three hours, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays. You can view the current study group offerings on our main SAGE Website under Study Groups / Current Study Group List
Q: Is there a social life component?
A: Yes, of course. Collegiality and community spirit are key attributes of who we are. There are group social activities outside of formal study groups. Many friendships (and partnerships) have been made at SAGE. We foster active engagement with each other as we share SAGE’s core value of life-long learning.
Q: Does SAGE LR have other activities?
A: SAGE has other events and activities that engage members beyond the classroom: for example, our Speakers or Encore Series where guest speakers or SAGE members are invited to present on topics of interest to our members; field trips; performances; informational forums and special interest groups like opera, play reading, current events, or simply sharing meals. Members are encouraged to initiate new groups depending on their interests. You can check our activities on SAGE calendar.
Q: What does membership at SAGE cost?
A: Annual dues are $250 for a single membership and $450 for a couple. Two quarter trial memberships are available for $50. Trial members who then opt to join SAGE pay pro-rated dues for the remainder of the membership year.
Q: Do I need a college/university degree?
A: No, just a love of learning and sharing in active discussions.
Q: Can I visit a study group?
A: Yes! Non-members may sit in on 1 – 2 study group sessions to see how SAGE discussion groups work. Your visit is coordinated by our Membership team and the study group coordinator must be informed prior to your visit.
Q: Where do study groups meet?
A: In-person study/discussion groups meet at The Episcopal Church of Saint Andrew & Saint Charles at 16651 Rinaldi St in Granada Hills (SAGE has no religious affiliation but we rent classrooms). We also offer study groups on ZOOM.
Q: Is there a New Member program?
A: Yes, we have a trial program to let new members try us out before committing to regular membership. This program lasts for for two quarters and only costs $50. For the first quarter, you can audit our study/discussion groups with no presentation/lead requirement. For the second quarter, you fully participate in the study/discussion groups, including taking the lead for at least 1 hour. For both quarters, you are a full member and can participate in events and other activities.
Q: As a new member of SAGE LR, will I receive a mentor to help acclimate me?
A: Yes. Your study group coordinator or a member of your study group will familiarize you with the ins and outs of our study groups, our approach to participating in and leading discussions, and will be available to answer your questions and help in any way they can. If wanted, SAGE volunteers can provide training sessions on using Zoom and using various presentation software.
Q: What is my responsibility in a study group?
A: Regular attendance and participation. In each of the study/discussion groups you sign up for, you will choose a sub-topic or a chapter of the theme, research it, develop discussion questions and lead the class on your scheduled day.
Q: Is Sage a non-profit?
A: Yes, we are a 501(c)(3)
Q: How long ago did SAGE start?
A: SAGE was founded in 1987 in affiliation with California State University at Northridge (CSUN).
Q: Is there an administrative staff?
A: Except for a part-time administrative assistant, all organizational responsibilities and duties are performed by SAGE members.
Q: How is general information passed along to members?
A: The best source of information is our Website which is regularly updated. SAGE also sends out Global emails, and we have a lively newsletter, SAGE Observations (also available on the SAGE Website.)
Q: Are there any additional costs beyond the membership fee?
A: There may be an additional fees to cover the costs for special events or trips. Our event flyers will notify members of any special costs before they sign-up.
Q: When is the fee payable?
A: Your full-year membership fee is payable before registration for the Fall Quarter in August. New member who join mid-year will have their fee prorated based on the number of terms remaining in the academic year.
Q: How are the study group offerings determined?
A: SAGE members propose possible topics for consideration throughout the year. Our volunteer Curriculum Committee reviews these topics and votes to provide the most interesting, relevant study groups spread over multiple topic categories
Hopefully, we have addressed all your questions. If not, call us at 818-831-5064 or email membership@sagelr.org and leave a message and we will respond as quickly as possible.
Testimonials
Signing up for a SAGE course is like embarking on a mini-adventure. The terrain is always new and interesting, there’s much to explore, the conversations are stimulating, and I’ve met some delightful fellow travelers along the way.
COOKIE
SAGE has been a lifeline to me for almost eight years. After retiring, I tried a few local classes requiring no homework, but I lasted only a few weeks. I realized I wanted something much more enriching. Then, I discovered SAGE. It is amazing to be able to learn so much that is new about the world.
I have met like-minded seniors at SAGE, with whom I share classes and outside activities. It is very gratifying to be learning in a group setting where we learn from each other. Continued learning has made a positive difference in my life.
ROSA
When the pandemic hit, SAGE saved my life! Instead of being “stuck at home”, I was taking 3 Zoom classes a week, feeling involved and stimulated.
The people in SAGE come from all different careers and this means we learn a lot from each other. And if you don’t find a class or a group that interests you, can create one.
If you are a retired person who has always enjoyed learning, SAGE is a highly satisfying place to continue your journey
BARBARA