COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of daily life since arriving in the United States. One unexpected effect the virus has had is the inclusion of coronavirus-related questions in interviews. Interviewers are now asking questions such as “how have you been spending your time?,” with the goal of receiving answers that include new skills you have been learning, online classes you have taken, or volunteer work you have done.

Whether you would like to have answers for interviews or you are genuinely interested in learning new skills, we have comprised a list of free ways to learn new skills and hobbies.

Academic Resources

Alison

Alison offers free modules in topics which include IT, marketing, health, humanities, business, and math. All you have to do is go to their website, create a free account, and start finding modules that appeal to you. After completing the modules, you will receive a diploma or a certificate.

Open Education Database

Open Education Database is another helpful, free resource that consists of college level courses in a range of topics. By clicking on this link, it will bring you to their website, where you can then search for subjects that will benefit you.

Fitness Resources

Life Time

Life Time has a variety of workout videos using minimal equipment, available by clicking here. Classes range from strength to cardio to yoga, so there are many options to fit your fitness level and goals.

Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is offering free home workouts on their Facebook page, no equipment required. These videos are available to everyone, even if you aren’t a member of Planet Fitness.

YMCA 360

YMCA 360’s website provides on-demand videos of a wide variety of activities, including activities for children and older adults. Some options include tai chi, dance fitness, and barre, giving you the option to try some classes and see what appeals to you.

Cooking Resources

Budget Bytes

Budget Bytes is an extraordinarily helpful website for those looking to cook on a budget. The website provides recipes with the price per recipe, and price per serving listed. There are plenty of healthy options, as well as meals you can make ahead for a busy week. Check out their website here.

The Chopping Block

The Chopping Block provides downloadable reference guides for common cooking scenarios, such as grilling, holiday baking, and cooking vegan meals. Go to their website, click on the course you would like to download, then put in your name and email address.

YouTube Channels

Youtube channels are a great way to learn a variety of skills, from yoga to playing an instrument, or in this case, cooking. Some popular channels include Food Wishes, Binging with Babish, and Bon Appétit.

Language Learning Resources

Duolingo

Duolingo is a free app that you can use to begin learning a new language, or practice a language you already know. You can download the app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Although Spanish is the most popular course on Duolingo, there are many other languages offered, such as French, Arabic, Russian, and Chinese. If English is not your native language, then Duolingo offers English courses as well.

SignBuilder

Interested in learning sign language but aren’t sure where to start? Download the free Sign Builder app and start learning sign language vocabulary in minutes! The language offered is American Sign Language or ASL.

Bonus

Cell-Ed

We’ve teamed up with Cell-Ed to educate and elevate 1 millions learners. Cell-Ed offers free mobile classes on a variety of topics including math, citizenship, history, and reading in both English and Spanish. Learn more and sign up here.