I am from a Jewish community in Queens where religion is a key factor in the way I run my life. After I graduated high school I studied overseas at a rabbinical studies program, basically covering the deep meaning of what it means to be Jewish. This year of change and identity search is the reason I am who I am today. Some experiences included going to the ‘shuk’ or an outdoor market with all kinds of fruits and bakery stands run by hardcore Israelis. By going to the ‘shuk’ you see how business was managed at least 50 years ago in the average marketplace in the world. At these flea market styled booths there are no computers or any advanced technology in place. The advertising that is done is the shouting of the products’ prices. What made Israel change me was my ability to explore my religion with the access to speak with almost 100 experienced rabbis everyday. My mindset has changed from an American view of the world, where money is the goal, to a religious view of the world; where the world revolves around faith and action.
I was expecting college to be my chance to delve into the real world and meet people with different mindsets as me, which unfortunately I have never met due to the uniform ideology I received as a student in Jewish schools. For the first semester of college I was planning on attending a wide range of classes because I am unsure of the major I am looking to study. I also want to join many clubs and see what really interests me and can help me earn a decent livelihood in our tough economy. Even though it is difficult to come to college after being in a religious society, I am excited to explore what the world has to offer; especially a business world that technology is taken advantage of and where everyone is diverse.
