In this talk I discuss the relationship between student and teacher which is at the core of our tradition and practice. This talk answers the question what is involved in becoming a student? What is a zen student? How do I become a zen student? What does it mean to practice in a non-monastic setting? The talk also discusses my experience of the student – teacher relationship and explores the question, what does it mean to be a teacher? Finally I ask the question should zen teaching be professionalised or should we continue with the dana (donation) culture?