How did you decide to major in Jewish Studies?
I was majoring in Business Administration but found there was a missing layer of discussion, text study, and critical thinking. I wanted to learn more about my religion, culture, and ancestry through Jewish Studies, while engaging in smaller, more intimate classroom settings.
What were a couple of your favorite academic experiences and why?
I studied abroad in Prague last summer with the Center for European Studies, which was absolutely incredible. My classes, however, have been my favorite academic experiences. I’ve taken courses that challenged my previous notions about Israel studies, engaged my wider thinking about American history and popular culture, and questioned what Judaism looked/looks like around the world.
How did your choice of major help with your chosen career path?
Jewish Studies through its liberal arts curriculum will greatly assist me in law school next year at the University of Virginia School of Law. I’m proud to have written thought-provoking papers, to have become friendly with my classmates, and to have delved deeper into readings during my time in CJS classes.
What would you advise other students when choosing a major?
Take classes in something different, something that sounds interesting and fun! You never know where it will lead you. I took my first Jewish Studies class freshman fall, and it wonderfully lingered until I started the major until Junior year. I always thought I needed a major that was super tangible and career-oriented, but I didn’t. I just needed to learn, and the CJS offered me many classes to get there.