Course

Guided Autobiography is a certified process of writing about your life. Rather than following a chronological approach, it uses a series of topics to prompt memories and stories. The process emphasizes two things: storytelling and community building. This four-session course will explore the topics The First Time, Risks I Have Taken, Cultural Heritage, and Food and Drink.

Note: This course explores different topics from Guided Autobiography I, offered in fall 2026. No need to have taken Part 1 — you’ll be able to fully enjoy this course on its own.

Faculty Bio

Sara Orem has taught for OLLI @Berkeley for 10 years. Her background and academic study is in positive psychology, and the many ways we can enhance positive emotions to live a more satisfying and fulfilling life.

This is an In-Person-Only Course

• 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, Jan. 21, and ends on Thursday, Feb. 11
• Classes meet for 4 weeks, 2.5 hours per session (9:30 AM–noon)
• All course materials will remain available to view and enjoy in Member Dashboards through March 28

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."