Junior studies abroad at Buddha boot camp

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Cyprien Bullock, English junior (second from right) meditates alongside other students during his study abroad program in India. Bullock said his three months at a Buddhist temple made him a more compassionate person. Photo credit: Cyprien Bullock

Natalie Hatton
February 9, 2017

As a Buddhist, learning how to meditate had been a lifelong dream for Cyprien Bullock. That dream became a reality last year when the English junior traveled to India to live in a monastery alongside Buddhist monks.

“I kept that dream in my head, and then when the opportunity to study abroad came along, I said, that’s a great chance to try and go to India,” Bullock said.

Traditional study abroad destinations did not interest him, so Bullock took matters into his own hands to find the right one. He found a Buddhist Studies program running out of Antioch University in Minnesota, which allowed him to live, study and meditate in Bodh Gaya in India.

“Bodh Gaya is kind of like Mecca for Muslims or Jerusalem for Christians. It’s the holy site, so Buddhists across the world go there to pay their respects. It’s a very special place for Buddhists,” Bullock said.

http://www.loyolamaroon.com/10012763/religion/junior-studies-abroad-at-buddha-boot-camp/