Rumi's Field

Named after a renowned peace-seeking Sufi poet, Rumi’s Field offers a space for students who wish to learn, live, and interact using the skills of Nonviolent Communication. Taught and practiced around the globe, Nonviolent Communication (NVC) strengthens one's ability to inspire compassion from others and respond compassionately even under difficult circumstances. This mixed community of John R. Lewis College first-year and continuing students from all different parts of campus will have the opportunity to engage in dialog and resolve conflict using NVC consciousness as a tool for personal and societal transformation.

Please note:

  • Rumi's Field is located in a Residence Hall at John R Lewis College. For Fall 2022, the floor will be located in Ohlone House.
  • Attending a one-unit course in Nonviolent Communication fall quarter is a requirement for living on Rumi's Field. Nonviolent Communication involves communication skills that foster compassion, the consciousness of the interdependence of our well-being, and the use of power to work with others toward meeting the needs of all concerned. This course is offered Sunday evenings from 4:00 - 6:00 pm in the relaxed and comfortable environment of the Terry Freitas Cafe at John R. Lewis College. A one-unit course is also offered winter quarter for those wishing to go deeper with the skills and make NVC a life practice. 

To learn more about Rumi's Field, check out the Rumi's Field Video!

Apply to live in Rumi’s Field

Register online for on-campus housing at housing.ucsc.edu and indicate Rumi’s Field as one of your housing interests. Be sure to fill out the online supplemental application for Rumi’s Field. For more information contact Monisha Murjani at mmurjani@ucsc.edu.

Apply to be a Peer Facilitator

Applications are available now in the College Nine and John R. Lewis College Res Life and Housing Office or Co-Curricular Office, or you can download one here: Peer Facilitator Application

Peer Facilitators will:

  • Reside in Rumi’s Field (Nonviolent Communication Floor) in Ohlone House, John R. Lewis College. You will receive priority placement.
  • Facilitate Nonviolent Communication practice sessions with residents
  • Work closely with the instructor of the Nonviolent Communication class associated with the floor and participate as a peer mentor in the class (you will receive course credit).
  • Gain valuable leadership and facilitation experience, and develop life-long skills in Nonviolent Communication.

For more information on how to apply to be a peer facilitator for the quarterly 1 credit course, please contact Alec Santos at aljusant@ucsc.edu.