These days, many of us would like a little expert help with making the right decisions when it comes to financial planning, career paths, education and health. The Alumni Association is offering free workshops and has recruited UofL professors, alumni and other experts to lead four-week sessions starting in January.

Participants of the UofL Personal Development Series may choose from four tracks: financial planning, career development, continuing education or health. Each class meets once a month for four months.

Unless otherwise noted, all classes will meet in the second floor board room of the University Club on Belknap Campus 6:30-7:30 p.m. Parking is available adjacent to building. Register for these free workshops online or call the UofL Alumni Association, 502-852-6186. For questions, call Valerie French, assistant director of alumni relations, 502-852-0089.

1. Career Development Track
Meets the first Tuesday of the month, January-April
Led by Leslye Erickson, UofL Career Development Center

Register online for the Career Development Track

• March 3: “Developing a Strategic Job Search”
  Discover the most effective methods of job searching, learn ways to increase job hunting success, discuss how to access a job offer, negotiate salary and other strategies for job search success.
• April 7: “Panache that Pays”
  Dining etiquette can make or break your career. Participate in a full four-course meal and learn the “ins and outs” of dining etiquette. The meal consists of bread, soup, salad, an entree and dessert. Acquire such skills as: Which utensils, glasses and flatware to use, and when to use them; table manners and the importance of etiquette; managing food and drinks at receptions; interviewing over a meal; appropriate/professional conversations that pay; business card and cell phone do’s and don’ts; how to make introductions; and much more, guaranteed to polish your professional style and grace ($15 cost).

2. Continuing Education Track
Meets the second Tuesday of the month, January-April
Choose from four options; led by instructors from UofL’s Delphi Teaching and Learning Center

Register online for the Continuing Education Track

• February 10: “Screenwriting,” led by writer John Risner
  During this class, you’ll discover how and why a screenplay works, then learn how to plot your story, create the characters, and structure the three acts.
• March 10: “The Magic of Thoroughbred Racing,” led by Manny Cadima
  Prepare for Derby by attending this fun-filled class. You’ll learn the elements of the thoroughbred experience: breeding, owning, training, riding and racing, as well as the art, science and strategy of betting to win.}|
• April 14: “Spanish Language Instruction,” led by Susan Mike
  This introduction to the Spanish language will cover basic vocabulary, grammar and cultural information. No previous knowledge of Spanish is required or expected.
  
  

3. Financial Development Track
Meets the third Tuesday of the month, January-April
Led by instructors and UofL alumni Kevin Woodall and Chris Puffer of Money Concepts

Register online for the Financial Development Track

• Feb 17: "Give Me Some Credit"
  We’ll discuss why and how to establish and care for credit, how to budget for what you want, and the pros and cons of saving.
• March 17: “Taking Advantage of Knowledge”
  What are the appropriate strategies for wealth building? Start early and establish the habit. We’ll also explore various investment vehicles.
• April 21: "Insurance, Insurance, Insurance"
  Medical, disability, life, home and auto: there are so many insurance options. We’ll discuss where to start, what companies to consider and the cost of insurance.

4. Healthy Lifestyles Track
Meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, January-April
Led by a variety of instructors

Register online for the Healthy Lifestyles Track

• Jan 27: “Nutrition, Healthy Eating and Healthy Cooking on a Budget,” led by Mary Rose Mattei
  When money is tight, many of us grab a quick but unhealthy meal. But healthy, delicious meals are possible on any budget.
• Feb 24: “Exercise and Body Composition,” led by Charles Lambert
No matter our shape or size, getting regular exercise is key to staying getting and staying healthy.  

• March 24: “Exercise on a Busy Schedule,” led by UofL Health Sciences Campus Gym Director Debby Woodall
  It can be hard to fit exercise into our hectic lives--but it’s actually easier than you may think. We’ll discuss how to begin an exercise program or maximize the effectiveness of your current one.
• April 28: “Stress Relief and Meditation,” led by Paula Kommor
  Stressed out? Meditation and yoga can help. Learn how to incorporate stretching techniques into your day to relieve unwanted stressors.