Full-Time Work Study Program
Residential Work-Study Program at a Buddhist Center of Learning
Immerse yourself in a life of discovery and service in a Tibetan Buddhist educational center founded by Tarthang Tulku Rinpoche, one of the last Tibetan lamas to receive full education and training in pre-occupation Tibet. Here we focus on personal development with a style of learning that integrates work with study, practice, and a life of doing good.
As a participant in the residential work-study program, you will live at the Nyingma Institute, a historic building rich with Tibetan sacred symbols situated in the foothills overlooking Berkeley. Mindfully prepared vegetarian meals will be available to you as well as the opportunity to attend the classes or workshops offered here.
Daily life includes morning practice, working with the Co-Deans and other long-term community members, and opportunities to learn about Tibetan Buddhism, meditation, and more. We practice together, eat together, and take turns cooking vegetarian meals.
We hope for a 6 month commitment so that you have time to settle in and get a feel for our community, as well as to participate effectively in the projects here. We are dedicated to making opportunities for growth and transformation available through our classes, workshops, retreats, and special events.
Our residential work-study program is a way to live, study and work as a part of a dedicated and resourceful community guided by Tibetan Buddhist practices and principles. We are one of the earliest and longest standing Buddhist centers in the U.S., with a history shaped by tremendous efforts to support the survival and transmission of Tibet’s living wisdom tradition.
You do not have to be Buddhist to be part of this program, just open to living in community and learning about the mind. The schedule is Monday – Saturday from 9 am – 5pm. Roles that you may be involved with include bookkeeping, IT, front desk, administration, cleaning, maintenance, marketing, cooking, gardening, and more. Experience is very helpful; however the most important qualities are a willingness to learn and join in where needed, enthusiastic participation, and interest in making a difference in a small, non-profit setting. Current areas of focus here include program development and a major garden renovation project.
Application Process
We are happy to see you are interested! Once you send in your completed application, we will be in touch with you to chat further and set up an interview to see if we are a good fit for each other.
Contact
If you would like to talk about our program or set up a tour please feel free to reach out to: (510) 809-1000 or