2025 Testimonials of Student-Teacher Weekend Retreat at MABA

“What a wonderful place to visit and spend time getting to know the monastic and sangha community of MABA.  And what a wonderful moment in my life to study the Teachings with a dedicated group of teachers (also part of the monastic community!).  My time here and in the DBS program has significantly changed my life and my view of the world.  I am truly grateful for this opportunity to learn and grow with such dedicated practitioners and my hope is that many people will receive the same inspiration and benefit from taking refuge in the Triple Gem with MABA and with everyone affiliated with the DBS program as I have.  I am so blessed to be part of this community.”

- Ian Rogers, DBS class of 2026

“While at MABA, I embraced the process of “strong back, and soft chest.” The presence of my teachers and classmates provided me with strength and a profound sense of belonging as we journeyed together. Witnessing the personal stories of resilience, love, gratitude, and compassion in every interaction with my classmates softened my heart.”

- Gabriela Leyva, DBS class of 2027

"In our classes, we’re just classmates. At the DBS Student-Teacher Retreat, we became kalyāṇa mitta—friends on the path. The weekend brought our studies to life with collective, in-person practice. I’d call that essential for a well-rounded education in Buddhism. If you get the chance, give it a try." 

- Brien Seyle, DBS class of 2026

“I recently attended a three-day retreat with MABA, and it was a deeply enriching experience. Private conversations with the monks offered thoughtful guidance, while the meditation sessions brought stillness and clarity. Volunteering in the kitchen was joyful, and the food was simply beyond words.

I left with a clear two-year blueprint for my meditation practice and the inspiration to return and give back by teaching at MABA. With pleasant weather and a warm sense of community, the retreat was truly uplifting and transformative.”

- Ravi Sudalaimuthu, DBS class of 2025

"When I joined the DBS program, I expected to learn directly from monastics and academics and to meet other lay practitioners. The program has far exceeded those expectations. The wealth of knowledge and kindness held by the teachers and my fellow students can not be overestimated. Participating in the DBS Program has been an illuminating experience. I now view Buddhism and respond to the world differently as a result. I would recommend anyone practicing Buddhism or academically interested in utilizing the opportunity." 

- Matt, DBS class of 2026

“This weekend was an incredible opportunity to meet Dhamma Teachers who are all experts in their fields. The participants are compassionate people, the vegetarian food was great, and I was able build relationships with people all over the US and the world. I was very impressed and inspired to make a commitment to the 5 precepts under Master Jì Rú and join the MABA sangha. Overall, I had a wonderful time! Namo Dhammakaya!”

-Teresita, 2nd year student

"I'm very grateful for the time that we had together during the student and teacher's meetup at MABA. It's a very unique opportunity to learn about Buddhism from monastics and experts of different lineages. The time that we were able to spend together in person was not only inspiring but deeply moving. There are so many incredible individuals from diverse backgrounds coming together to study and practice, and the community is embracing and accepting. The hands on experience of a monastic lifestyle strengthened my understanding and resolve to practice the dhamma and live compassionately."

- Kaera, DBS class of 2026

 "I have been very happy with the course so far and learning more about Buddhism and its roots in Indian culture and history.  With the online format it has been a pleasant surprise to meet students from all over the world and have us all share our perspectives.  The experience has enhanced my understanding and appreciation of the interconnectedness of all things.   I look forward to deepening my understanding and practice in Buddhism through continued learning and participation."  - Ian Rogers 

 “The Diploma in Buddhist studies program is an excellent opportunity to learn about Buddhism from skilled educators whose depth of knowledge is remarkable in scope. Because of the teachers and students' varied cultural backgrounds, each discussion is a gateway to glimpse the global human experience. If you are interested in studying Buddhism, I would highly recommend this edifying course.”  

- Matt McAninch

 "I have finished the first class in the diploma course "Historical background of Buddhist culture," taught By Dr. Bhante Sumitta. The teacher was a great inspiration, and I sincerely admired his vast knowledge. The students are from different backgrounds and cultures from all over the world. I enjoy interacting and learning from students who live in Buddhist countries. The depth of knowledge and faith in the Dhamma continue to inspire me. The fact that they live according to the five precepts is impressive. I feel this is so much needed in the Western world, where essential human values have been lost. The class surely opened my eyes to the vastness and timelessness of Buddhist teachings, which are applicable to individual growth and socio-ethical as well. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone that is seeking a way out of the norm, the pervasive discontent and hamster wheel effect of mundane suffering." 

- Toni Staicu 

 “I’ve only taken one class so far but I really enjoyed it, with a much richer understanding of the socio-historical conditions that set the stage for the Buddha's teachings. Our teacher, Bhante Sumitta, is a recognized expert on these texts, and he made an excellent guide to beginning sutta studies. The DBS program is a unique opportunity for world-class education in Buddhist studies. It's particularly helpful for Western converts, I think, but I'd recommend it to anyone interested in learning about Buddhism in a setting that balances academic rigor with work-from-home convenience. I can't wait for the next class to start!” 

- Brien Seyle 

 "As a student of the DBS program, my learning experience thus far has been wonderful. The first course was taught by Bhante Sumitta, it was on the Historical Background of Buddhism. I found the course engaging, insightful, and very thought provoking. The contributions and open dialogue amongst my fellow classmates allowed me to see the subjects from different viewpoints. The Buddha's teachings and understanding of the world went against the societal standards of the time in many ways. He was able to let go of the biases that his society would have established in him. For prospective students, or for anyone who is interested in learning more about Buddhism, I highly recommend this course. It allows students to gain new perspectives, discuss topics and real world implications of Buddhism. I want to thank both DBS, Bhante Sumitta, and my fellow students for the wonderful class. I learned so much from all of you." 

- Kayra Goddard 

 "Historical Background of Buddhist Culture is my first course in the DBP program. This course greatly deepened and broadened my understanding of Buddhist culture. We have explored so many topics through the lens of Buddhist culture. Many of these topics might not seem to be related to Buddhism at first glance. However, our instructor, Bhante Sumitta, inspired us with his deep understanding of the sutras and other resources. It was such an enriching experience learning from him and I am so grateful for MABA who provided this opportunity for all of us!" 

- Jie Yan