Fast Facts: 23 Years Old, From Philadelphia, Vanderbilt B.A. 2024, Jewish
My relationship with Judaism has ebbed and flowed. I grew up in a Conservative synagogue, my parents kept a Kosher household (and still do), encouraged me to become a Bar Mitzvah, and made Shabbat and Holidays special. When I went to college, I drifted away from the traditions my parents had proudly transmitted. I stopped eating Kosher, annoyed at all the restrictions, and often neglected the Holidays, …… Yet, I joined a Jewish fraternity (Alpha Epsilon Pi), and frequented Chabad and Hillel events. I was still an engaged Jew.
In the summer of 2023, I was drawn towards reading the Bible (Tanach). I was embarrassed at my interest, and hid it from my family and friends. I went to a Church, asked for a Bible, and stuffed it in my backpack. In the beginning I would drive 30 minutes before feeling comfortable enough to read. By the time I got to Exodus, I worked up the courage to tell my Mom. She thought it was awesome (and was a little perplexed that I didn’t ask to borrow her Tanach). I’ve since come to cherish our discussions on Torah & Jewish history. That summer taught me just how Interesting the Bible was; the fall of 2023 showed me how important it is to be a Proud Jew.
Profoundly impacted by October 7th and its aftermath, I knew I needed to focus on the significance and miraculous nature of my Jewish identity. Already an active member of Vanderbilt’s Jewish community I doubled down on my commitment. I made Torah a weekly habit, borrowed (and then bought) Tefillin, and showed up for Shabbat dinner week after week. A few months before I graduated from Vanderbilt University (B.A. May 2024) one of my close friends introduced me to the beauty of Shabbat: No Phone. No Work. Just Joy. Shabbat has become a favorite part of my week. I’ve come to love learning about Torah and Judaism; and embracing Judaism as part of my daily life.
After graduating from college I joined the staff of Alpha Epsilon Pi - The Jewish Fraternity, as a Chapter Leadership Consultant, and visited dozens of campuses. I saw a diverse range of Jews and Jewish communities reacting to a changing campus environment - and a changing world. Despite the present challenges, it was clear that so many people love their Jewish background and are looking for ways to embrace the goodness of Judaism. I read, listened, observed, discussed, read some more, and Journaled all the while. Thou Shalt Journal was born.