For those of you graduating from Binghamton University this year – congratulations, not only have you successfully made your way through the rigorous curriculum demanded by the “Ivy of the SUNYs,” but, even more impressive, you have effectively navigated your way through the intricacies of the General Education requirements. For those of you who will be returning to BU next year and have not yet completed this supposedly simple set of guidelines (remember that 3 week spa you had to attend following the insomnia that was Freshman Orientation?), here are some tips on how I have been able to fulfill these requirements through Chabad:

A Aesthetic Perspective – Helping prepare for meals, I’ve learned the coolest ways to cut up a million tomatoes and how to make a stack of set tables blend into a room (not to mention which side the fork goes on).
G Global Interdependencies – While Chabad does amazing things within the Chabad House, the work they do does not happen solely within its walls. Whether running meaningful events on campus, providing for starving college students over on the West Side or running Birthright trips on the other side of the world, Chabad knows how to help Jewish Students where they are.
N Social Science – I’ve learned that one of the best ways to impress a yiddishe maydl is by carrying her chair over to her table for her. I’ve also learned that spilling soup on her new skirt is probably not the best way. (As far as getting the rest down to a science, I think that’s one place Chabad has failed me.)
O Oral Communication – Rabbi Slonim has often helped me improve my public speaking skills, allowing me to make important announcements and then complimenting them with his additions of minor details, such as the date, time and even the things I’ve forgotten to announce.
W Wellness – Chabad has helped create and maintain the strong and vibrant Jewish community that exists on our campus. It seems as though every year I return, eager to see the new extensions added over the summer, there is a need for another expansion.
Y Physical Activity – Of course, reminding me about the importance of Not Rolling on Shabbos.

Hopefully I’ve given a clear guide to the infamous Gen-Ed requirements necessary to matriculate at Binghamton University. Even if not, I’m sure it’s better than any explanation you’ve gotten from the Academic Advising office.