FAQs for Parents
What tangible “skills” will my kid learn at C.S.?
While CS is focused on contemplative practice, we teach these tools in a way that integrates into daily life. As a result, your child will gain skills that will be transferable to their relationships, career & life at large, such as:
active listening
how to deal with stress & other challenging emotions
tools to self-regulate
collaborative problem-solving
leadership skills
conflict resolution
how to build real community
tools to stay grounded and in integrity with oneself regardless of social pressure
Your child will also . . .
gain self-confidence to forge their own path
feel more connected to their inner voice
love & accept themselves more deeply
be able to express themselves
feel supported by a close-knit community of peers & mentors
What are your health and safety protocols?
Student health and safety is one of our highest priorities. We are advised by the Cornerstone Safety Group, who advises dozens of semester programs around the world. They provide licensed health professionals who advise us in shaping our health & safety policies, including a licensed medical doctor who is available for consultation in emergencies. We also have two licensed mental health professionals who staff our program on-site who are there to support student well-being and provide emergency mental health support when necessary.
Can my kid get college credits for participating in the Contemplative Semester?
Yes! We are offering optional college credits through Naropa University. Students can receive credits for 1 - 4 courses, at 3 credits per course. The cost of credits is $500 per course (3 credits), in addition to the tuition fee.
Is C.S. something that my kid can put on their resume?
Absolutely!
How will this program look to future employers?
Good!
C.S. provides a foundation for emotional intelligence & leadership skills, which are proving to be ever more vital to professional success.
Through developing greater self-regulation, self-awareness, empathy, communication & social skills, your child will be a stronger candidate for future employers.
Is C.S. going to make my child a Buddhist?
No. And, this is far from our intention. We offer practices and teachings primarily rooted in Buddhist philosophy in a non-dogmatic way - as a way for students to explore & understand their human experience.
It’s a “come see for yourself” approach. Students won’t be pressured to subscribe to any particular ideology. There will be lots of room for healthy dialogue & questioning.
Our family is religious - is that ok?
Yes! Whatever your family’s religious background is, your child is welcome at C.S.
We will not be proselytizing or trying to convert anyone to Buddhism in this program.
Rather, we offer Buddhist teachings & practices as a way for students to deeply understand their experience & decide for themselves what they believe.
Is my kid gonna be “behind” if they do C.S.? I’m worried that their peers will be ahead of them.
We believe this program will give your child a huge leg up. It’s an opportunity to develop invaluable skills in emotional intelligence, leadership, self-awareness and skills for resilience and inner peace through all the tribulations of life that will help them soar.
We also offer optional college credit, which means your child won’t be held back timing-wise if they’re still in school.
Can my child continue to see their therapist while they’re at C.S.? What kind of Mental Health support will be available?
Yes, your child is welcome to continue working with their own therapist or mental health professional while at C.S.
We’ll have a dedicated mental health coordinator who’s a licensed therapist on campus. A number of the faculty & mentors are also certified mental health professionals & social workers.
Additionally, students will meet weekly with a small group of students that includes 2 mentors, as well as a weekly 1-1 meeting with a mentor.
PLEASE NOTE: C.S. is NOT a program for young people in crisis. If your child is actively suicidal or in need of an inpatient care program, C.S. is not the right fit.
Can I come visit my child?
Yes! You are welcome to visit your child on weekends. We cannot host any parents on site, but there are ample bed & breakfasts and AirB&B’s around.
Can I send my child packages?
Yes! Once accepted, we will give you and your child all the info to ensure you can send them mail.