Course

This is the first of a two-part course. The second part will take place during the winter term. Each part can be taken alone but the power of the lessons expands with each topic.

In this course, we will examine the "foundations of your story," which will guide you through four essential themes that form the backbone of every life: the branching points that changed your direction, the family influences that shaped you, the career that gave your days meaning, and your relationship with money throughout the decades. The follow-up course, “Enriching Your Life Story,” scheduled for winter 2026, will take you deeper into your own story.

Faculty Bio

Sara Orem, PhD has taught at OLLI for more than a decade, bringing both academic expertise and practical wisdom to her popular workshops. As a founder of OLLI's Vital Aging in 2020, she has helped countless adults discover the power of personal storytelling. Her academic study is in positive psychology and the ways in which we can enhance our emotions to live a more satisfying and fulfilling life.

This is an In Person-Only Workshop

• Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 300, at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
• Limited to 18 members
• You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.

Schedule Highlights

• Course starts on Thursday, Oct. 16, and ends on Thursday, Nov. 6
• Classes meet for 4 weeks, 2 hours per session (10-noon)
• All course materials will remain available to view and enjoy through Dec. 31

 Member Praise for Sara Orem 

"Sara is a marvelous instructor! So happy I took this class!"

"Sara gave me the tools to capture the important things in my life and to express them to the important people in my life. A treasured gift indeed. Thank you, Sara!"

I found this course to bring many emotions to the surface in my 83-year old body. Tears flowed liberally. Life is so short."