HDS communications reached out to our 2021 graduating students to hear from them in their own words about their experiences at HDS, the people who've helped and inspired them along their grad school journeys, and their plans for the future.
Words of Inspiration
"The best things in life are on the other side of fear."—Will Smith
How I've Changed
Since studying Buddhism at HDS, I have been learning to tear down my sense of self. I used to think in terms of "me" and "I" but have since learned about "non-self" and the interconnected nature of life. As such, I can better empathize with others by viewing matters through their lens as "we" and "us". By learning to take my constructed ego out of the narrative, I have been able to let go of mundane problems that would have caused me grief in the past, thereby lessening my reaction to situations.
Additionally, I have been able to work through challenges that I did not think I could overcome. Simply getting through these difficulties has been evidence enough that I have the ability to withstand whatever gets thrown my way, which in turn, has renewed my confidence in myself.
Memorable Moment
Playing "I love it! What is it?" with my Engaged Zen Buddhism class. There, we gave each other imaginary gifts in which the recipient responded, "I love it! What is it?" before being told what the gift was.
That game taught me to appreciate whatever gift was being given, no matter what it was. It also taught me to welcome and embrace the unknown.
Favorite Class or Professor
My favorite class was "Engaged Zen Buddhism" with visiting professor Jitsujo Gauthier. I was able to learn about Buddhism and apply it to my daily life in terms of meditation practice and volunteer work. Rev. Jitsujo's class fostered community and relationships, and from that, I met incredible people from HDS and other Harvard graduate schools. Currently, I am in the process of preparing to take my precepts in Zen Buddhism with Rev. Jitsujo in the near future!
Message of Thanks
I am extremely grateful that I got to work with Dr. Elon Goldstein and Buddhist denominational counselor Chris Berlin. Dr. Goldstein is a compassionate and understanding person, and through him, I learned a great deal about Buddhism.
Chris's good-natured personality and peaceful approach to teaching provided me with the calm environment I needed at HDS. I appreciate that I learned from these two people. Their kindness is what Buddhism really is all about and was necessary for my time at HDS.
Future Plans
I hope to continue fine-tuning my Buddhist practice through regular meditation practice, retreats, and exploration of different centers.