Plato Study Discussion Groups
Engage in Meaningful Dialogue with Lifelong Learners
The PLATO Society of Los Angeles is a community of retired and semi-retired professionals dedicated to lifelong learning. Members meet weekly to explore topics in philosophy, literature, science, politics, and more, with each discussion led by a PLATO member.
Since 1986, the PLATO Society has invited one UCLA College Honors student per group to participate, offering a unique chance to engage in deep discussions with experienced professionals. While PLATO credit does not appear on transcripts or count toward degree requirements, it will fulfill a College Honors/Scholars Experiential Engagement or may be considered towards honors elective coursework.
How to Enroll
Enrollment for Spring/Summer 2026 has closed. Please check back in late Summer for Fall enrollment.
Enrollment for a PLATO Study Discussion Group is on a first-come, first-served, rolling basis and may fill before the posted deadline. If you’d like to receive information about enrolling for the next available term, please submit your information through the Interest in Joining a PLATO Study Discussion Group form. Below is an overview of the enrollment process throughout the year.
Enrollment Process:
- Review the Plato Study Group schedule for the upcoming session.
- Schedule an appointment with Honors Counselor Lorena Rivera.
- After meeting with Lorena, you will receive the registration form.
- Submit your materials to Lorena by the related deadline.
Plato Resources
Download this step-by-step guide for a detailed overview on how to join and participate in a discussion group.
How to Receive Honors Credit
Students may earn up to 4 units of honors credit for PLATO SDGs. However, PLATO courses do NOT apply toward your UCLA degree.
| Discussion Length | Units Earned |
| 12 – 14 weeks | 4 units |
| 9-11 weeks | 3 units |
| 7-8 weeks | 2 units |
Note: The PLATO term does not align with UCLA’s academic calendar. Please take this into account, especially with regards to Spring/Summer breaks.
Receiving Credit
To receive honors coursework credit and 1 Experiential Engagement:
- You must complete the PLATO Study Discussion Group: Evaluation Form about your SDG Coordinator.
- Your SDG Coordinator will submit an Honors Student Evaluation Form. To receive Honors credit, you must earn at least a ‘Satisfactory’ rating in overall attendance, weekly discussion participation, preparation of your discussion guide, and leadership of your assigned discussion.
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- Credit is awarded only after verification–no petition is necessary.
Attendance & Participation
- Attendance is mandatory
- A PLATO Study Discussion Group pre-meeting is highly recommended.
- You will also be asked to do a presentation and facilitate the discussion in at least one of the sessions.
- In-person PLATO Study Discussion Groups are located at 1083 Gayley Avenue, 2nd Floor Los Angeles, CA 90024-1333.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PLATO (Partners in Learning Actively Teaching Ourselves) ?
The PLATO Society of Los Angeles is a lifelong learning community for adults who are intellectually curious and enjoy engaging in peer-led discussions.
What are Plato Study Discussion Groups (SDGs)?
Small, peer-led groups where members collaboratively explore various topics, including history, literature, science, politics, and the arts.
What is unique about PLATO?
There are no instructors. Members take turns researching and leading discussions, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning experience. PLATO offers a stimulating intellectual community for individuals who appreciate critical thinking, civil discourse, and lifelong learning.
Who can participate in PLATO?
At least sophomore standing College Scholars Program and College Honors Program students who want to engage in a collaborative learning environment without the pressure of grades or exams.
How do I attend a Plato Study Discussion Group?
PLATO Study Discussion Groups are offered in person at Westwood Village, on zoom, or hybrid (hybrid gives you the option to select your preference for in person or remote, however, the ultimate decision will be up to the SDG Coordinator).
○ In-person location: Westwood Village Address, 1083 Gayley Avenue, 2nd floor, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1333 ■ NOTE: Enter the building from the back (Weyburn Terrace side).
How do I decide which Plato Study Discussion Group to enroll in?
Prior to enrollment, the Plato Society typically hosts a 2-Minute Pitch Zoom meeting to introduce available SDGs and help students refine their top three choices.
For Spring/Summer 2026, this session will not be offered. Students are encouraged to review available materials and send a message to Counselor Lorena Rivera with any questions as they prepare their selections.
How many honors credit units will I receive?
- 4 units for 12-14 week groups
- 3 units for 9-11 week groups
- 2 units for 7-8 week groups
- (Note: A maximum of 4 unit-equivalents of PLATO Society may be applied toward College Scholars Program or College Honors Program requirements.)
What type of honors credit will I receive?
Upper Division honors coursework credit
How can I receive Experiential Engagement credit?
Once you complete your PLATO Study Discussion Group is completed:
- You will submit the PLATO Study Discussion Group: Evaluation Form about your SDG Coordinator. Counselor Lorena will send it to you after finishing up your term.
- Your SDG Coordinator will submit the Honors Student Evaluation Form.
- Once both forms are completed and if your participation is confirmed, you will receive honors coursework and experiential engagement credit which will be reflected on your Honors Progress Card–no petition submission is required.
- You will only receive one experiential engagement credit.
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How can I apply?
Please check the How to Apply tab for the most up-to-date details.
When is the deadline?
Enrollment occurs for the Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer. For Spring/Summer 2026, the deadline is Wednesday, March 25 at 4:00pm.
When will I hear back regarding my application?
For Spring/Summer 2026, you will receive a decision by Monday, March 30.
What is a pre-meeting?
- The Coordinator and Co-Coordinator meet with the group to discuss a variety of issues, but, most importantly, this meeting determines which group members will lead the discussion during each session of the SDG.
- They will take place between April 13-17.
- Your SDG coordinator will confirm the exact date and time.
When does the Spring/Summer term start and end?
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- The Spring/Summer term starts Monday, May 4, 2026.
- The 2nd 7-Week of classes begins June 22.
- The Spring/Summer term ends: Friday, August 7, 2026.
Contact Information
Meet the Plato Society Coordinator
Honors Counselor Lorena Rivera coordinates the Plato Society Discussion enrollment. For questions or to schedule an appointment, please submit a request through Message Center.