You can obtain a good introduction to Hindu religious vocations by working as a temple volunteer. In this position, you might greet visitors, clean the temple, and assist office staff in their duties. Talk to a purohit about the rewards and challenges of being a priest. Visit https://www.nriol.com/america-visitors/hindu-temples-in-usa.asp for a list of Hindu temples in the United States. Biographies of resident priests are sometimes provided at these sites, which can help you to identify potential purohits to contact regarding an interview. Visit a temple and observe a purohit performing puja. Hinduism Today offers a helpful primer on visiting a temple and the various aspects of the service at https://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=5315. The Hindu American Foundation provides a wealth of information about the career of priest and other temple jobs at its Web site, https://www.hinduamerican.org. Finally, check out the following resources to learn more about Hinduism:
- Hinduism For Dummies (For Dummies, 2011)
- The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism (Lorenz Books, 2012)
- The Little Book of Hindu Deities: From the Goddess of Wealth to the Sacred Cow (Plume, 2006)
- Hindupedia: http://www.hindupedia.com