Beginner’s Mind is an ongoing special project from Buddhistdoor Global collecting insightful essays written by college students in the US who have attended experiential-learning-based courses related to Buddhism. Some of the authors identify as Buddhists, for others it is their first encounter with the Buddhadharma. All are sharing reflections and impressions on what they’ve learned, how it has impacted their lives, and how they might continue to engage with the teaching.

Beginner’s Mind offers a platform for these students to share their views on the Buddhadharma from the perspective of the “beginner’s mind.” Through commentaries, insights, and observations, these essays address some of the imminent challenges facing young people and the world today, from social and economic inequality to environmental sustainability and beyond, filtered through the lens of Buddhist philosophy.

Beginner’s Mind is updated monthly.

With special thanks to Susanne Ryuyin Kerekes, Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Religion at Williams College, and Jessica Xiaomin Zu, Assistant Professor of Religion at USC Dornsife.