Featuring
Joel Varnai
What is your major, and why did you decide to pursue this degree?
I am a nursing major. I always wanted to be an engineer, but during covid, I became an EMT, and fell in love with patient care.
Why did you choose Binghamton University?
Originally, I wanted to go to Rutgers nursing, but Hashem had other plans for me. Coming from NJ, Binghamton was a far commute, and I really didn’t know much about it. B”H, I accepted a spot at Binghamton’s nursing program, which led me to Chabad and continues to enhance my Yiddishkiet on a day-to-day basis.
What is your favorite book? Why?
None. I was never a big person on reading, more on doing. I love experiences, and how they mold you into being you!
Where are you from? Where did you go to high school?
I grew up in Queens NY, and moved to Teaneck NJ for high school, and attended Yeshivat Frisch.
What do you love about Jewish life on campus?
Everything! So many opportunities to do mitzvot to help others and get out of your comfort zone!
Do you have any siblings?
I have an older brother named Adam and a younger brother named Robert.
What is your favorite Jewish food?
As a Hungarian I love Goulash. If you’ve never tried it, try it!
What is your favorite food?
A nice hamburger. Plain and simple.
If you were a breakfast cereal, which one would you be and why?
Rice krispies. Snap. Crackle. Pop.
What is your favorite Jewish childhood memory?
Friday night dinner with my family. The dynamic totally changes when Shabbat comes, and creates an amazing environment.
What is your favorite Chabad experience?
The Jew’au. It’s an amazing adventure. We go on a yacht (more like a boat) and just schmooze and meet new people.
What's your favorite lockdown experience?
Becoming an EMT. It provided me with a pathway for getting into medicine, and the ability to help people.
