Before coming to Binghamton, I was cautioned by certain individuals about the Jewish life on campus. Some of you might find this surprising, but I came into this university having prepared myself for a small, inactive Jewish community. At the time, I was not aware of the spiritual heights that I would be able to reach during my three years at Binghamton University.
Having come to Binghamton right after years of Yeshiva schooling and my year in Israel, I had a strong connection to Judaism. I have always been a firm believer in the importance of sharing Torah knowledge with others, which accounts for the creation of “Torah Time with Tah” a program that allows students to teach each other topics in Judaism. Learning from my peers and taking part in others’ learning about Judaism are memories over which I will smile and reminisce fondly.
Summarizing my experience at Binghamton University would be incomplete without mentioning Chabad House and all their efforts to augment the Jewish life in the Binghamton area. Anyone that is familiar with the scene can easily recount a list of things they do each day for the students on campus and the members of the Binghamton community to help Jews maintain or create a connection to Judaism. I have learned from the Chabad staff how important it is to show concern for all individuals with whom I come into contact and to do so in the nicest way possible.
To this day I cannot understand why people were afraid of me attending Binghamton. There were times when I had to take initiative and surround myself with the right environment, but I feel that that has only strengthened my Judaism. Besides, when I needed guidance or encouragement, I definitely had amazing role models from whom to learn!