Even though I am well into my thirties, come a new season all the adult in me still wants to do is grow, learn and self-improve. These days my curriculum for the new year consists mostly of cleaning, repairing and maintenance courses.

So how do you take on a new skill when much of your spare time is spent running from Home Depot and Best Buy to Whole Foods?

For many singles, today's educational alternatives provided at the retail level are a convenient, flexible and affordable solution. Whether you want to perfect your golf swing or learn how to re-tile your bathroom, here are some of the workshops and clinics offered at superstores throughout the nation that will help you get started.

Creative Expression
Michael's, The Arts and Crafts Store:
The Arts and Crafts superstore is a one stop shop for creative types! Courses, available for both grown-ups and kids, are continuously revolving based on seasonality. In September they are offering Jewelry Making and One Stroke Painting Techniques for adult students plus a bunch of fun Halloween craft-making lessons for kids so be sure to check your local store for specific dates and times.

Home Improvement
Home Depot:
Need some home improvement lessons that are more hands-on than the DYI network? Home Depot offers Do-It-Yourself workshops throughout the year at location nation-wide where Individuals can learn everything from how to paint a faux finish to tile a backsplash. They even offer how-to clinics for children, so if you are alone with the kids it can be a perfect interactive learning activity to keep them out of trouble.

Pottery Barn:
Who needs a decorator when you can get design lessons for the perfect home at Pottery Barn. Yes, to compliment their line of cozy, casual furniture good and accessories, the company hosts a series of decorating classes. The seasonal classes teach you how to arrange the perfect space. So whether you find new shell accessories, wooden bedframe, or just some inspiration, these decorating classes are worth the free trial!

Nutrition and Health
Whole Foods:
Not sure how to prepare turn those hard to handle Halloween gourds into a tasty meal? Want a first hand Kitchen Confidential from a famous, local, chef? Whole Foods, the purveyor of organic better-for-you brands, is more than just a food market. A Culinary Center is available (in select cities throughout the country including New York, New Jersey, California and Texas) where you can drop in for cooking lessons on a broad range of topics including "The Adventures in Squash" and "Vietnamese Comfort Foods." They also have a regular program schedule complete with lectures, demonstrations and tasting events where you can learn about everything from anti-aging to belly dancing!

Fitness and Sports
GolfSmith:
If you have always wanted to take up golf but too intimidated to get out on the green, then the Golfsmith is just the place for you to get started. GolfTEC, the sport retailer's on-site training program, will teach you the fundamentals of the game. Certified personal coaches will show you everything you need to know about grip and stance, basics of the full swing, along with basic rules and etiquette of the game. Three levels are offered to allow for effective progression.

Technology
Apple Retail Stores:
In this case, too much of a good thing is never enough, especially when it is FREE. Yes, Apple Retails stores offer free workshops to help you increase your knowledge and skills (and meet people with similar interests, according to their website) using their software, hardware and other gadgets. Bless their marketing genius, they even have a PC to Mac Workshop for those who want to switch over to the other side.