I am currently enrolled in the Joint Program at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America and Columbia University. I grew up in Orange County, California, where I had the privilege of attending Tarbut v’Torah Jewish Day School from kindergarten through 12th grade. This extended period of immersion in a Jewish educational environment not only equipped me with a profound understanding of my faith, but also instilled in me a strong sense of Jewish identity, community, and values.
Throughout my academic career as a whole, I have always had a strong passion for Jewish learning, which in turn has been a guiding force in all areas of my life, leading me to delve deeper into my faith, exploring its multifaceted interpretations, and evolving role in contemporary society.
Beyond the classroom, I have actively participated in various community activities. These experiences have allowed me to develop essential life skills, such as effective communication, teamwork, and leadership. Furthermore, they have given me the opportunity to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the diverse academic and cultural environment that New York City offers. As I continue to advance in my academic and personal journey, I am eager to leverage the knowledge, skills, and passion I have developed to make a meaningful impact on the world around me. Whether through further academic pursuits, community engagement, or professional endeavors, I am dedicated to embodying the values and principles that have guided me on this remarkable path.
As an Intern with NCSY, I recruited dozens of teens to join the OC NCSY chapter. I led a weekly program called “Lattes & Learning” in which Jewish teens, from across the county, gathered to connect with their fellow Jewish teens. In addition to weekly club meetings and activities, I planned regional shabbatons with hundreds of teens. I also conducted weekly board meetings and worked closely with the director to restructure the Orange County NCSY board, primarily by implementing a system involving assigning board members to various subcommittees to ensure that all board members felt included and valued.
Student to Student is a peer-led initiative of Jewish students that leads presentations at local schools on combating Antisemitism through education and awareness. As a Group Leader, I was responsible for creating, organizing, and scheduling presentations. In speaking with these students, I discovered the primary cause for most hatred is ignorance.