Upcoming Educational Seminars In OC

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While the kids are enjoying band camp or visiting grandma this summer, consider planning some time for your own personal development. A commitment to lifelong learning is possible in Orange County, where educational seminars and talks abound at local colleges and private institutions. Enroll in a lecture or workshop where you can learn life strategies for success, dabble in ornithology or even become a wine connoisseur.

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Achieve your goals by developing more confidence, improving your communication skills and discovering your creative side. PSI is the longest running personal development company in the country and aims to train people to achieve their full potential in business, relationships and in life. More than half a million people have participated in these seminars over the past 35 years. Many say they have experienced increased productivity and focus in their careers, health and financial pursuits.

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If you love wine and want to learn how to better identify the tastes and smells present in your libation, sign up for this Wine 101 seminar by “M” Wine Education. This course is part of a series introducing students to wine and offering them a tour of the senses. Pinpoint the aromas and scents in your glass as the wine connoisseurs do. Learn how the different wines are made and identify the grapes used by growing region. Through taste tests, you’ll also learn to evaluate a wine’s acidity, sweetness and alcohol level. Visit the ‘M’ Wine website for information on classes and prices.

Related: Best Music Workshops In Orange County

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Women Investing in Security and Education (WISE) seeks to empower women with the education and expertise to make smart financial decisions and secure their financial independence. This year, enroll in a workshop that will help you build your financial wealth through stocks. This course will teach you when to buy or sell your stocks and discuss which stocks are safe and which pose the most risks. Taught by leading financial planners and educators, WISE workshops provide a friendly, non-intimidating environment for women to learn everything from the basics of financial planning to long-term money management.

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Visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and immerse yourself in the rich history and ecology of this natural Orange County wetland. Guides will take you on a free tour of the reserve where you’ll learn about the local and migrating birds that can be found in the area, the many endangered species that call the reserve home and what efforts are being made for restoration of this important wildlife area.

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Sea & Sage is the Orange County Chapter of the National Audubon Society, which strives to improve public understanding of nature and the environment through conservation, research and educational programs. The Society holds nature-themed workshops year-round. This year, start learning to identify the local flora and fauna around you by enrolling in the birding skills workshops taught by Sylvia Gallagher. The Birds of Southern California introductory workshop series is a 10-week course focused on teaching you to identify local species by behavior, habitat, bird calls and visual features. Become a birding expert and impress your friends and family on your next nature outing.

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Truc Dever is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.