Farewell Yeshiva University
Dear readers,
It is near the end of my time as an undergraduate student at Yeshiva University, which has been my home for the past four years. Looking back, it has been a long journey with many ups and downs, new experiences and impactful moments. Preparing to leave, I reflect on the steps that led me to where I am today.
I grew up in San Diego, California, and after high school, I went straight to university without attending a yeshiva year in Israel. I chose YU because of its strong Jewish community and commitment to Torah values. Acclimating to college life at YU as an out-of-towner and a true freshman took some time, but, like many challenges, it led to growth and helped me find my path along the way.
Over the past four years, I have learned a lot about myself and discovered meaningful lessons — here are a few of them I would like to share.
It is natural not to have everything figured out right away.
Starting YU, I did not know anyone and was unsure what to major in or what my journey would be like. It was a new, exciting period, but also one filled with uncertainty. Like other students, I was learning to navigate this unfamiliar stage one step at a time. My major changed more than once, and through trial and error, I gradually discovered what I enjoy.
An important lesson I learned is that you do not need to have your life mapped out from day one — most people do not. It is completely normal to take each chapter slowly and allow clarity to unfold over time. What matters is being willing to explore, beginning with small steps and making decisions with the understanding that you can change paths. This took me a while to learn, as I exposed myself to new challenges and discovered my interests, strengths and what does and does not motivate me.
Embrace new experiences.
College is a defining stage to explore your interests inside and outside the classroom. You can select fun and engaging courses, try new activities, and discover what you enjoy. Getting involved in clubs and extracurricular activities is a great way to find out what excites you and where you thrive.
For example, I am passionate about writing, so I wrote an article for The Commentator, which led to many more contributions. I joined Tamid, the tennis team and several other activities. Participating in two morning programs, IBC and SBMP, gave me different perspectives. There are numerous ways to be involved with the broader university community: through clubs, extracurriculars, student life events, shiurim and chaburas. These experiences helped to make my journey much more enjoyable.
Take advantage of YU’s resources and build meaningful connections.
YU is a great place to form professional relationships and connect with people who can guide and support you. Although considerable resources are available, most students fail to take advantage of them. In my experience, the Shevet Glaubach Center has been very beneficial to me, offering practical career skills and access to dedicated advisors. In addition, YU features support services, tutoring, networking events and mentorship opportunities for students.
One of the benefits of studying at YU is the small class sizes, which make it easier to build connections with professors. I connected with faculty members who became my mentors, offering thoughtful advice and support throughout my college journey. You can learn a lot by simply reaching out to a professor, advisor or someone in your network.
Most importantly, be proactive. YU has many resources, but it’s up to you to take the first step and make the most of them.
Make time to enjoy life outside the classroom.
As a student in New York City, there are so many opportunities to explore and have fun. A short subway ride from the university can bring you to an entirely different neighborhood with fresh sights, sounds and energy. Set aside moments to enjoy the city, attend sports games, walk through Central Park and visit museums like the MoMA, the Met and the Museum of Natural History. You can also see live performances on Broadway and go to Carnegie Hall.
Closer to campus, Fort Tryon Park became one of my favorite places to relax and unwind. I found walking through the park surrounded by nature very peaceful and relaxing. Make the most of your time outside of class by exploring the city and immersing yourself in all that New York has to share.
Do the best you can.
Like any new stage in life, YU comes with its own distinct set of challenges. The schedule can be incredibly busy and demanding as students balance the dual curriculum alongside extracurricular activities and daily responsibilities. Socially, YU can be a challenging environment to meet people and form connections. Living in Washington Heights is also a unique experience and an adjustment at first. Now, I have come to realize that this period is not an endpoint, but a stepping stone to something greater.
At YU, students must learn how to manage a dual course load and develop strong time management skills. Work hard, focus, and try your best. It is OK to change directions, expose yourself to different opportunities and grow through each transition. Through it all, I have made meaningful and lasting friendships and developed personally and academically. While I am excited to graduate and begin a new chapter, I look back at these last few years as a learning experience and am ready for what comes next.
Photo Credit: Gavriel Factor
Photo Caption: Sunset on the YU campus
