Residential Student Program
The Art of Living Inquiry
The Intention
In a rapidly changing world and an increasingly demanding, competitive and materialistic society, an understanding of oneself and an exploration of the inner world are essential for a radical transformation of society and culture. The program is based on the understanding that without, as Krishnamurti stated, the “awakening of intelligence” and a “flowering of goodness” in the individual, one has little or no basis for action.
Program Description
Our residential student program is a vibrant aspect of the Krishnamurti Educational Center. For the past several years, we have welcomed individuals who have felt called to reflect deeply upon the teachings of J. Krishnamurti. They have been high school graduates and individuals facing “middle of life” transitions. Their homes have been as far away as China or as close as the neighboring town. Regardless of their cultural background, familial circumstances or place of origin, all of them have had one thing in common – a true desire to question the life they’ve come to know as their own.
Residential students live on campus and find ample opportunity for self-inquiry and exploration of interpersonal and group dynamics. There are several retreat programs hosted by the KFA that residents can join, including Yoga and Inquiry and the Summer Teacher Education Program. The opportunity to explore one’s thoughts and feelings through written reflection is an integral part of the program.
The residential student program at the Krishnamurti Educational Center is a unique opportunity in that it is a living and evolving community. The vitality of the program, and its momentum throughout the year, relies on the sincerity, care, and responsibility of each of the participants as they live and work together. The intention of the program is above all, to allow for open exploration of all aspects of one’s life, with the ongoing potential of gaining insight into the nature of one’s life, the world, and the activity of human relationship.
Work / Study / Activities
Work
In exchange for room and board, residential students will support various aspects of the center including – online and in person book sales, retreat breakfast, landscaping and maintenance, data entry – as well as cooking lunches for themselves and the staff.
Study
Studying Krishnamurti’s teachings means giving one’s time and energy to a careful exploration of the issues and questions raised. The program will provide the necessary forum for such study and exploration. Time is available for dialogue and discussion, and for study using text, video and audio recordings.
Activities
Through the year, there are several educational programs designed exclusively for the residential students. The approach to Krishnamurti’s work differs from program to program and depends on the background of the facilitator. There are dialogue intensive programs, which focus on collective inquiry-based engagements within the residential student community. And there are programs that are organized with a more academic style, which offer a comparative study of K’s teachings with various other realms of thought and/or research. Often there is some sort of project that is associated with each of the programs. Each residential student is asked to participate in these programs, as well as the weekend retreats offered to the public on an ongoing basis.
What to Expect
- Access to the Krishnamurti library and quiet room
- Opportunities for shared inquiry with staff and retreat guests
- Living on a lovely wooded campus among orange trees and an herb garden
- Several hiking trails within easy walking/driving distance
- Single or shared living space. Accommodation photos and information available upon request.
Residential students receive simple accommodations, food, and a small stipend – $200/month before taxes for students eligible to work in the U.S. International applicants with proper visas are encouraged to apply as volunteers. We are unfortunately not able to sponsor people through any work visa/permit process.
This program tends to challenge people in various areas, which may not always be comfortable but is generally illuminating. One of the intents of the program is to provide the space to explore as these moments arise.
Who is this for?
The program is intended for those with a strong interest in Krishnamurti’s teachings.
Now Accepting Applications for 2022
Please contact us for an application and more information.
Fill out my online form.
F.A.Q.
What to bring
A complete list of essentials will be provided once you are accepted into the program.
Can my partner join me?
This program is intended to set aside time for self-inquiry. It is our experience that couples can me more exclusive together with does not work well if the group of students is small. We therefore try not having two partners in the program the same time. We make exceptions with creating some overlap, like 2 months maximum overlap.
Are pets allowed?
We are located in an area where wildlife is plentiful and we want to preserve this natural space for the animals that inhabit the land. We ask that you leave your pet with someone while you are in the program.
I am in school/have a job. Can I still join the program?
The intention of the program is to set aside space and time in one’s life for self-reflection and inquiry. We’ve found it to be a distraction to try and maintain outside commitments while in the program. For this reason, we ask that you make space in your life where you are free of any additional obligations (work or school).
Public transportation
The center is located approximately 5 miles from downtown Ojai. Unfortunately there is no public transportation to the center. Most students choose to bring their own car. Transportation can be arranged for arrival and departure from the program.
Dietary preferences and restrictions
Vegetarian meals are prepared and provided on campus. Eggs and dairy are included. We strive to offer gluten-free and vegan options during meals. Particular dietary concerns would need to addressed with the program coordinator.