Interview with Zachary Ciperski,
Master of Arts in Religious Studies

What were you doing before you came to Naropa?

I was a student at the University of Colorado, studying religious studies. Before that I was a student at New York University. I received degrees from both and then enrolled at Naropa.

What motivated you to come to the MA in Religious Studies?

I think the better question would be what motivated me to come to Naropa in general. I had a religious studies background and wanted to continue along that path. I wanted to go to a school that was different. I didn't want to be just a number. I didn't want to be at a school where academics are everything. I came here for the experiential part of contemplative practice. I wanted to work directly with my professors and truly be apart of a community. And that is exactly what Naropa provides. At Naropa, you can actually say how you feel and not be judged. It's much more of a growth experience than anything. I think that's why we all come here, to work with ourselves, and be able to work with others as a result.

How has your time in the program been so far?

Naropa has exceeded all my expectations. I am honestly grateful for having the opportunity to study at Naropa; you come in touch with teachers and professors who are different from what you'd normally encounter. They guide you through a life and classroom situations. They will make a positive impact on you, and empower you to be a more wholesome individual. I love the contemplative side of Naropa. It's very addictive. I know when I leave; I will not have the same educational experience elsewhere. So, I keep wanting more and more. Each and every day at Naropa you walk away inspired, and you know you are apart of something very special.

How do you regard the academics of the program?

The academic side is strong but it really varies class to class. In specific, the Buddhism classes are very demanding. One doesn't come here just for the academics. Naropa is not Harvard. Naropa is a place where you cultivate not just your mind but your body and spirit too. As a result, I believe Naropa is the only complete school in the country. You are challenged in specific courses. However, some courses can be a little less challenging because of the undergraduate / graduate ratio.

Do you find the program challenging?

The majority of the classes are challenging. The key point is how challenging they are on the emotional level. You have to study, take exams, and write papers, just like every other school. However, you learn more about yourself in the process, and by doing that you put yourself out there more. It is a big risk and not easy for everyone.

What do you have to say about contemplative practice as an aspect of this program?

Contemplative practice is the foundation of the program. It varies course by course but is an important part of each class. It's integral. It's not just about learning facts; it's about putting it all into action. Every class has a contemplative component; it's just a matter of what they want you to do with it. For example, Meditation Practicum is one of my favorite courses. It encourages me to work on my own. Whereas, Contemplative Christianity is about integrating personal work with what is happening as a group. Contemplative Judaism is much more outside of class; working with yourself and finding how the texts relate to your life.

How would you describe life in Boulder and the connections to the religious studies community?

I don't think Naropa could have found a better place and vice versa. Boulder is a spiritual hotbed, very welcoming of what we do here. If we were in Denver, I probably wouldn't say the same things. In Boulder, we are very much a part of the community. The things we do at Naropa impact the community and the things that the community does, impacts us. It's good to have a place where people welcome us with open arms; people ask what we're doing and have a positive reaction. Boulder is definitely a good place for Naropa and a religious studies student as well.

What would you say to prospective students?

The best thing I can say is if you take the risk in coming here, come without an agenda. Come with open arms, eyes, and heart. Let the program impact you. If you let the program change you, it will. It will make that difference in your life. Naropa is not for everyone. It's what you want to make of it. If you want to have that experience, transformation will happen.