For a membership application and specific deadline information, call (617) 495-4072, or e-mail Lydia Sheehan, Lydia_Sheehan@harvard.edu. Criteria for admission are generally based on an applicant’s education, avocation, or career background. But the Institute does seek candidates who are likely to consider HILR a major commitment of their time and energy, who enjoy and contribute actively to class discussion, and who show willingness to become study group leaders or to serve on one of the program’s many committees. Once members are accepted by the Admissions Committee, they are required to attend courses immediately and not to defer admission, except under extenuating circumstances.
Yes, in the sense of retirement from a full-time career. Because the Institute’s success rests on member participation, applicants who have the time to commit are generally favored over those whose time is limited.
No. Although almost 30 percent of members are Harvard graduates, membership is open to people from all educational backgrounds with a keen interest in intellectual pursuits.
No. HILR is a noncredit, nondegree program. Members take courses at HILR for the pure pleasure of learning.
No. Members come from the far reaches of New England. Regular attendance is important and is stressed to foster the sense of collegiality that is central to the program. Therefore, they must demonstrate an ability to travel to classes through all normal weather conditions.
No. There is no requirement for course leadership. Members often find, however, that, after several years of class participation, they are ready to assume the responsibility of leading a study group. Prior teaching experience is not necessary. Anyone at HILR can develop and lead a course on an area of their expertise or interest. Most agree that leading a study group is a rewarding experience.
Members may take up to three courses per term.
No, once accepted, a person remains a member of HILR until such time as his/her ability to participate actively is compromised. The vitality of HILR as a stimulating community of intellectually curious retirees depends on its members being conscientious, disciplined students and leaders, who are prepared to participate actively in their study groups and in the HILR community. Therefore, the possibility exists that new members are subject to a five-year review that would provide both the Institute and the member the opportunity to assess the mutual benefits of continued participation, based on the member’s contribution in the classroom and as a volunteer in the HILR community.
Meanwhile, the bylaws state that, to maintain membership, members register for classes each semester, and that any extended leaves of absence not exceed two consecutive terms. Following two such terms of absence, a member must reregister or relinquish his/her place in the membership.
HILR members pay no initiation or annual membership fee, only tuition fees for each semester of enrollment. The fees are in the range of $400 per semester.