Magdy Taha began working for Free University, Penn State's alternative to "institutionalized academia," at the suggestion of the organization's coordinator.

Now a professor of Arabic, Taha still finds time to act as adviser for Free U, a collection of students, professors and local residents offering free classes on everything from "An Introduction to Holistic Health" to "Medieval European Armored Combat."

"A community is comprised of many individuals who have some kind of skill, knowledge, or excitement which is special to them ... these individuals can benefit from sharing this with everyone else," Taha said.

Penn State's Free University began in 1971, with seven courses offered as an alternative to "institutionalized academia." The tenth largest Free U in the country, about 4,000 people participate in its classes each semester.

Anyone may teach a course in practically anything within legal limits. Free U publicizes these courses -- up to 50 courses a semester -- mainly through a catalogue and its supplements.

"In the past we used to have over 200 classes, but I would rather have less classes of better quality," Taha said, adding that a person can receive as much experience from life as from a formal degree.

"When someone wants to start a class, I ask them, 'What do you want? What do you have in mind?' " he said. "Some come to socialize, not to teach."

Coordinator Lynn Schopf (senior-marketing) said many of the teachers actually are hired by the University. Schopf, who has been involved with Free U since 1986, is in charge of putting the catalogue together and coordinating the teachers.

"The Free University gives people the opportunity to go to classes that otherwise might not have the chance," said Schopf, who is also the secretary-treasurer of a Free U group, the Akido Club.

And many people who make the effort to attend the classes are often more motivated than their tuition-paying counterparts.

"I think Free U students might be more interested in learning than regular students because they do not get credit or anything," Taha said.

Both Taha and Schopf said the most popular class is vegetarian cooking. All classes are offered free of charge, although some may charge a minimal fee for class materials. For instance, the cooking class is offered without charge, but a charge of two dollars is suggested if a student wants to eat the meal afterwards. Other popular classes include Hebrew and aerobics.

In addition to classes, Free U sponsors lectures, workshops, and a film once a semester.

"Our goal is sharing and strengthening the ties between PSU and student organizations with local and nearby communities," Taha said.