Elgin offers Edgewater residents many choices for extended learning.

You ask a real estate professional to tell you what’s the most important factor to consider in buying a new house. What is the one answer that you’re almost certain to receive? The answer, of course, is always: “Location. Location. Location.”

Well, the same holds true from a builder’s perspective when developing a community. Del Webb brand for active adults have developed a well-respected process for identifying lifestyle locations over the past 40 years.

So are builders and active-adult buyers both looking for something similar in their search for the “perfect place?” It’s less obvious than you think. If you’re guessing scenic views, convenience to shopping and entertainment, access to transportation, or other standard realtor spin, there’s more to the story. Both builders and buyers are finding benefits of having a college or university in the neighborhood!

Michele Lerner of The Washington Times writes recently that “active-adult communities, restricted to households with residents age 55 and older, are frequently located near educational institutions so that residents can participate in classes and continue learning as they age.”

She explains that staying mentally and physically fit, as well as socially active, is made simpler in these communities. Many residents are pre-retired, semiretired or retired, with extra time to spend on their own interests, including volunteering outside the community. Establishing such valuable connections with nearby cultural and educational outlets encourages an enriched environment and lifestyle for everyone.

Near Del Webb’s Edgewater in Elgin

Elgin has many diverse educational options. Within a 15-mile radius, there are more than 60 public and private elementary, middle and high schools. Elgin has three public school districts, several private religious schools and college-prep academies. Higher education opportunities include Elgin Community College, Judson College and branch campuses of National-Louis University and Keller Graduate School of Management.

Elgin Community College

ECC’s comprehensive offerings, guaranteed degrees, convenient locations, affordable tuition, small classes and a caring staff and faculty enable Edgewater residents to pursue many avenues of interest. The College was founded in 1949 and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Of interest for adult learners is the fact that one of every 12 in-district adults takes at least one course at ECC every year. The average class size is only 20. The campus is accessible to students and visitors with disabilities. Registration is currently underway for ECC’s Spring Semester that begins Tuesday, January 20.

The campus offers ample opportunities for active Elginites who may be looking to join the ECC Foundation; rent facilities and use catering services; access career services; or enjoy a massage. For music, arts and drama lovers, check out the Visual & Performing Arts Center events; volunteer at the Arts Center; or visit Writers Center. For sports & fitness fans, attend athletic events or use the fitness center. Grandparents, parents and children, explore the library and bookstore. Dining enthusiasts will enjoy the Spartan Terrace Restaurant.

Judson University

Judson University welcomes students of all ages. Many students bring a depth of knowledge in specific subjects that may have been acquired experientially. Judson has an outstanding, creative and dedicated faculty. Among the full-time faculty, over 80% hold the appropriate terminal degree in their field of teaching, with over 60% holding the doctoral degree. Faculty and administrators exemplify high standards of academic excellence in the context of the Christian faith. They place a high priority on relating personally with students.

Judson’s Adult Undergraduate Programs are designed for busy adults who are completing their college degrees. Professionals in Elgin area are able to take advantage of additional opportunities including Professional Development and Online Programs. For those who are interested in just earning a certificate or taking an individual course without completing the requirement for a degree, they may do so as a unclassified student by submitting the Distance Learner Application.

Near Del Webb’s Grand Dominion in Mundelein

Mundelein is conveniently located 10 miles southwest of Waukegan and 33 miles northwest of Chicago. The village is included in the Chicago metropolitan area and is home to almost 31, 000 residents. The University of Saint Mary of the Lake, in Mundelein, is a seminary offering graduate level degree programs. Other colleges and universities close by include College of Lake County, William Rainey Harper College, and Trinity International University.

Programming specific for active adults was found at the College of Lake County. Most colleges and universities typically provide non-credit options or special student status for degree and elective courses and provides an excellent outlet for non-traditional adult students.

College of Lake County Discovery! A Program for Adult Learners with a Young Attitude The Discovery! Program is designed especially for adults over 50 who share a love for learning. Classes, lectures, and tours are offered on a variety of subjects covering art, history, current events, computer and personal enrichment topics. Most classes are scheduled during the day, usually on weekdays, at various sites including the Southlake Educational Center in Vernon Hills and Waukegan Township Park Place Senior Services in Waukegan. To receive a current brochure or to be added to the mailing list, call the Discovery! Hotline at (847) 543-6507. View, download or print the Discovery! brochure.

Quest – In-Depth Summer Learning for Active Minds Patterned after the Elder-hostel model, Quest meets for four consecutive days each summer to study a topic in-depth. New topics are explored each year through lectures, discussions and field trips. For more information or to be added to the mailing list, call the Discovery!/Quest Hotline at (847) 543-6507. View, download or print the Quest brochure. Follow these steps to apply to the College of Lake County, register for classes and pay course fees.

Del Webb’s locations provide an enriching environment for residents that encourage lifelong learning opportunities. From education to entertainment and vocations to volunteering, college towns offer plenty of perks for people looking to keep active. For additional information specific to our Edgewater or Grand Dominion communities, visit DelWebbChicagoland.com. We encourage you make an appointment with our consultants or onsite lifestyle coordinators who are knowledgeable and skilled at matching personal interests and lifestyle needs.