What is your major, and why did you decide to pursue this degree?
I’m majoring in Accounting with a concentration in Finance at the School of Management. I decided to pursue this degree because I’ve always been interested in how businesses operate and how financial decisions impact real outcomes. A big turning point for me was my sophomore summer internship, when I got a JBIZ internship through Meor and worked under a CPA. That experience really opened my eyes to the field and ultimately changed my career path, pushing me toward pursuing my CPA. I love that finance gives me a strong foundation, while accounting allows me to have a deeper understanding of what’s behind a company and how they generate profits.

Why did you choose Binghamton University?
I chose Binghamton because it offers a great balance of strong academics and a vibrant Jewish community. A big part of my decision was the Jewish life on campus. I grew up in Franklin Lakes, NJ, where being part of the Jewish community took a lot more effort—going to Chabad of NWBC, the Chabad I grew up in, meant walking about four miles each way for Shabbat services, and my high school graduating class had maybe five Jewish students total. Because of that, I really valued having access to a strong, active Jewish community. Coming to Binghamton gave me the opportunity to be surrounded by that environment every day, which was a major factor in my decision to come here.  

Where are you from? Where did you go to high school?
I’m from Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, and I went to Indian Hills High School.

What do you love about Jewish life on campus?
What I love most about Jewish life on campus is the sense of community. There’s always a place to go, people to be with, and something meaningful to be part of. It’s a community where lifelong bonds are made and where you can foster connections. It’s truly one of a kind, and I highly recommend taking advantage of it and getting involved. This Jewish community has been such a blessing for me, and I only wish I could have done more to have made a larger impact.

Do you have any siblings?
Yes, I have an older brother and sister. They are both working in the city and have been amazing mentors for me.

What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why?
My favorite Jewish holiday is either Simchat Torah or Purim because of the joy that surrounds both holidays. My sophomore year Simchat Torah was one of the most meaningful Jewish holidays of my life. I’ll never forget going to services and running into Rabbi Slonim, who was asking the security guard for updates on what was happening in Israel on October 7th. Despite everything going on, Rabbi Slonim was emotional with all of us, yet still tried to bring joy and uphold the mitzvah of being joyous on Simchat Torah. He kept dancing with us and helped elevate the holiday, even during one of the most difficult times.

What’s your dream job?
I want to do work that challenges me, gives me room to grow, and allows me to make a meaningful impact in the world. I’m very thankful for all the opportunities I’ve been blessed with and am excited and grateful to be working at BDO next year in Third Party Attestation(TPA) assurance in the city.

What’s a quote or saying that you like?
A quote I like is: “The day you were born was the day G-d decided the world would not work without you.” It was actually my high school yearbook quote.

What is your favorite Jewish childhood memory?
I’m really blessed to say I have too many to choose just one. I would say any of the holidays or Shabbats I’ve spent with my cousins. Each of my older cousins are great mentors to me and have helped my Judaism grow while guiding me toward the right paths in life.

What is your favorite Chabad experience?
I’m also blessed to have too many to choose from. Chabad has truly been a gift that has only elevated my college experience. I can’t thank the Rabbis and Rebbetzins enough for always being there for me, especially during my lowest moments.

What makes you proud to be a Jew?
The Jewish family in my life. My biggest mentors are all Jewish, and I’ve seen how Jewish values have elevated both their lives and my own.