Featuring
Tova Kam
What is your major, and why did you decide to pursue this degree?
I am a nursing major, and I chose it because I like biology and the human connection aspect of being a nurse. A nurse has the ability to exude a warm presence that can have a strong effect on a patient's experience.
Why did you choose Binghamton University?
One of the reasons I chose Binghamton was because I heard that the Jewish community is vibrant and close-knit. I visited, and people were so friendly and welcoming. I also love all of the mountains!
Where are you from? Where did you go to high school?
I am from Dallas, Texas, and I went to Mesorah High School.
What do you love about Jewish life on campus?
I love how there is always some way to get involved in Jewish life on campus through different committees and programming, and people can find their niches to contribute in ways they enjoy. It is also really nice to see people at Jewish events and then run into them all around campus. It gives Binghamton a smaller feel.
Do you have any siblings?
Yes, I have three siblings! Zander is 17, Daphna is 12, and Elana is 7.
Do you have a hobby? Why do you love it?
I really like painting! It is so relaxing and a way for me to unwind. I have randomly decided to start a wall in my dorm room of different fruit paintings. So far we have a peach, banana, orange, and watermelon- let me know if you have any ideas for the next fruit!
What is your favorite Jewish food?
I love matza ball soup. And even just matza balls without the soup… I know, I know.
What is your favorite Jewish childhood memory?
Each Sukkot in middle school we would have a competition called “extreme sukkah makeover.” Each group made a mini cardboard sukkah with a different theme that somehow connected to sukkot. One year we made an iphone-themed sukkah, and our slogan
was “disconnect to reconnect”. A little cheesy, but at the time it was the coolest, most genius thing ever. I loved the creativity of the projects and getting to decorate.
What is your favorite Chabad experience?
Some of my favorite Chabad experiences so far have been the challah bakes. The process of making challah dough is so cool. It is also special to have the opportunity to make challah with others because of its significance in Judaism. And taking the challah back to my room to snack on is the best!
What's your favorite lockdown experience?
I very much enjoyed making my daily acai bowls during my breaks in between zoom classes!