What would it look like to serve young people, those at the forefront of changing the world while also embarking on a journey of waking up?

To answer this question and support the next generation of change-makers, we launched the Compassion in Action Fellowship— a yearlong inner & outer change journey that helps undergraduate students learn meditation practice, build community, and engage in meaningful social change.
This year, we are joined by 15 students leading campus and community-based chapters that host weekly or bi-weekly learning circles, social events, team meetings, and opportunities to help create a more just, compassionate, and connected world.
You can read all about the program HERE. Over the coming weeks and months we will feature the students who are the heart of Compassion in Action.

With immense joy and admiration, we introduce you to Priya, a fellow at Temple University.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a Senior completing my final year at Temple! I possibly want to pursue law school after graduation so I can become a civil rights attorney.

What’s your major and why did you choose it?

I’m pursuing a Bachelor’s in Communication and Social Influence. I chose this major because I longed to be a part of something larger than myself. I’m passionate about advocating for people who may not have a voice due to systemic oppression, and I really wanted to get involved with a community of like-minded people also interested in social justice. I specifically focus on the lens of conflict resolution.

What drew you to the CiA Fellowship?

The word “compassion” is what initially drew me to this program. I was seeking out a loving space to cultivate a more positive life for myself and others.

What are your goals for the semester?

As I approach the final couple weeks of the semester, I’m just trying to get through finals! My chapter was fortunate enough to have 10 Learning Circle meetings, and I’m happy to see how much we’ve all flourished. I hope I can end the semester stress-free and on a strong note.

What’s been happening in your chapter (if your chapter is underway)?

Our chapter hosted our closing ceremony for the semester at the end of November.

What types of meditations are currently resonating with you and why?

I love practicing Tonglen meditation, because it brings me back to my most grounded, intentional, and loving self. Extending compassion to others brings me great joy and when I practice Tonglen, I feel so in touch with the collective consciousness.

What social causes do you feel passionate about and why?

The #MeToo movement is close to my heart, as well as advocating for victims of domestic violence.

If you could invite anyone to dinner alive or deceased who would that be?
The singer FKA Twigs.

What does a more compassionate world look like to you?

A more compassionate world to me is one that swaps out power, competition, and greed for kindness, love, and boundless altruism.

Do you have a favorite quote or mantra?

“If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” Jack Kornfield

How can people join your chapter?

Reach out to [email protected] and ask about Compassion in Action at Temple University.

Thank you for sharing, Priya! We hope your semester ended on a strong note!
Stay tuned to meet more of the fellows and learn about how they are changing the world!