This document describes the evolution of the Exploratory College at Rio Hondo Junior College (Whittier, California) from its inception at a faculty retreat in 1970 through its first year of operation in 1972-73. The Exploratory College was designed as an alternative center for exploring new ways of learning within the college community. By being a smaller, primarily interdisciplinary nucleus, it reflects the need for modes of experience that are more commensurate with individual and group goals than is traditionally possible. Goals of the Exploratory College include: (1) the creation of a center for exploring new ways of learning; (2) the creation of a relaxed learning setting with flexible scheduling; (3) the provision of guidance in the determination of personal and professional goals; (4) an increase in the self-awareness of students and faculty; (5) the perception of the interrelatedness of various academic disciplines; (6) involvement in the community as an integral part of the learning environment; (7) the provision of standard college credit within a non-threatening grading system; (8) the development of personal values and attitudes through exposure to the values and attitudes of different cultures. A general student evaluation is appended, along with a list of goals and specific objectives. (Author/NHM)