What is your background?
I graduated from Penn / Wharton in May 2019 was involved in JHP across my 4 years, starting mainly in my sophomore year. I served as Lead Intern / President my Junior and Senior year and really enjoyed my time. Working with the executive board team and Menachem to enact positive changes within JHP that increased membership and impact was a meaningful & rewarding experience.
Now that you have graduated, what lessons and memories stick with you from your JHP experience?
Some of the biggest takeaways from JHP centered around the importance of Jewish community and power of the Jewish cultural, social and professional network. I started my career in IB at Morgan Stanley, and I was a leader on the Penn recruiting team. I very often did networking and mentorship calls with folks, but there was just a different level of positive connection when the person on the other side of the phone had a shared experience as a JHP alumni. That is not just me, as this applies to all people who are a part of JHP who come from a variety of different classes, years, generations, etc. Just to give a small anecdote, I went through the normal investment banking recruiting process, and it can be hard to get on the phone and talk to people to learn and seek advice. For me, Menachem connected me with a managing director as my first call into the firm. We immediately hit if off discussing our shared JHP experiences from different generations. It is a unique bond and relationship that unites members of all ages. The whole mindset of paying it forward really holds true in both JHP and my fraternity, ZBT. The more time that progresses since college, the more I’ve realized how significant it was to have a sense of belonging and purpose, which was offered in the most rewarding of ways by JHP.
What was your birthright experience like with JHP?
I went after my sophomore summer and it was probably the best trip I have ever done and definitely one of the most fun trips I have ever been on. It was a large group of close friends across fraternities and sororities, united by our membership in JHP. Spending time in such a special place with such close friends was an incredible experience.
One standout experience we had was a shabbat dinner at a beautiful apartment overlooking the Western Wall. This was towards the end of the trip, so the comfort level amongst the group was high, and we all gave various toasts, messages and reflections. It was shocking because everyone fully opened up and it was quite an emotional experience. That level of connection was unparalleled, and I had never seen something like that, a group of friends just pouring their hearts out. It was a truly special experience that I will remember forever. I don’t do a Shabbat dinner every week but when I do I realize how special they are, and this made me want to do more.
Did you have the dilemma of going either with home friends or through JHP?
I grew up in New Jersey and went to camp in a very popular area where a lot of Jewish kids went and there was always a season where kids I knew would go on Birthright. However, the JHP trip was the best decision I made because 1) it was awesome to have a big squad of my school friends going on an international trip together and 2) the JHP enhancements were way better than the “normal” trips. We had unique access. We had fascinating experiences learning from the IDF. It is 100% worth it to go through JHP.
Did you have a favorite JHP event?
I loved the mentoring retreats in Philly and NYC. Of course, the schools at Penn have their tracks & resources to help you be successful but the access that JHP has is on another level. There is nothing more useful than personal interaction in professional networking. The mentors are more than willing to volunteer their time and continue the conversations going forward. Then you also have a great time going out at night for Shabbat dinners. These were some of my fondest memories in terms of social events. It is such a vibrant community that I really hope translated into meaningful experiences for everyone involved.
How do you think JHP impacted your Jewish experience personally in college?
I was brought up Jewish and did many of the traditions, but I wouldn’t say I am more religious than the next guy. But coming to Penn and being an involved JHP member broadened my perspective on Judaism. I was exposed to a number of different traditions and customs that I had not previously known about and then the biggest aspect for me was the community and shared values aspect. Meeting people with similar values, many outside of my social circles, who all deeply recognize how important Judaism is in their lives for various different reasons. The togetherness was one of the biggest factors for me. Regardless of the stressors of school, all of the trivial things were put to the side when you all come together for a shabbat dinner. Not only was it an avenue to decompress mentally and see the bigger picture, but it also helped provide purpose and cultural belonging. This made me realize how important it is to promote your Jewish identity. Also, the pride behind it. I definitely became a prouder Jew for sure.
