“I definitely feel like [Judaism] has become more important to me as I've started to see myself as an adult and starting to shape my own life. When I think about what I want to do and be after I leave Brown, Hillel has definitely solidified to me that Jewish community is something I want to be a part of. I knew I wanted to be involved in Hillel in college but I also wanted to get involved in other things and not have my Jewish life completely define my college experience. I went to Jewish camp but I didn't go to Jewish high school, so it was kind of weird coming to Brown where so many people are Jewish. And while not everyone is observant, it’s exciting to connect with people that are Jewish just because they are. Hillel was so important my freshman year in making me feel comfortable because I found a community of people that got me and understood a part of my identity without me even having to share it. Then in the spring semester I became Holidays Chair and along with the party and event planning and getting things organized, I got to get other people involved, and I was excited to share that with Jews on campus who weren't yet Hillel regulars. I then decided to stay in leadership and ended up the Executive Vice President. It was great to be part of e-board and have big discussions about things that were going on at Hillel. Being able to give back and shape Hillel, and make it a comfortable and meaningful space for everyone was really important to me. I also live with my Hillel friends and I’m here almost every Friday night, except when I have weekend shifts as an EMT, so Jewish community is all around me. It’s not like we pray everyday at home but we have a kosher house, we always have Shabbat candles out before Hillel, and we have this understanding that is comforting and wonderful to share. I’m going to Medical school next year and throughout the interview trail visiting schools I always try to get a sense of what Jewish life is there. I’m going to be starting over and joining a shul or a less formal Jewish community will definitely help make me feel comfortable.“
Next year Rachel will be starting Medical School.
Next year Rachel will be starting Medical School.
