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Navigating College Admissions as a Jewish Student

In recent months, the college admissions process has become much more complex for Jewish students, especially in light of increasingly antisemitic environments on some campuses. In October of 2023, the terrorist group Hamas launched a violent attack on Israel that killed more than 1,200 Jews;  the largest attack on a Jewish population since the Holocaust. Following this tragic event, Israel launched a military offensive which quickly became an excuse for a surge in antisemitic rhetoric, especially on college campuses. From the harassment of Jewish students at Columbia University to anonymous threats of violence at Cornell and incendiary letters at Harvard, Jewish students in the U.S. have faced hostile, unsafe circumstances in environments that are supposed to foster safety and security. In this blog post, we’ll address some important questions about navigating the college admissions process as a Jewish student.


1. Should I Mention My Jewish Identity in My Application Essay?

One of the most frequently asked questions from Jewish students is whether to reference their Jewish identity in their application essays. Here are some considerations:

Pros:

  • Highlighting your Jewish background can add a unique perspective to your application. It can be a way to share how your cultural heritage has shaped your values, beliefs, and experiences. 
  • Sharing your identity may create a more personal connection with admissions officers, helping your application to stand out.

Cons:

  • In a perfect world, students would not face discrimination for their religious background. However, the reality is that bias may exist, even within admissions offices. Mentioning your Jewish identity could potentially expose you to this bias, even though it is illegal for a school to reject an applicant based on religion.
  • It’s important to avoid making political statements in your essay. Focus on your personal experiences rather than broader geopolitical conflicts surrounding Israel and Palestine. Keep the essay about your background rather than your views on current events.

Recommendation: Don’t hide your Jewish identity, but consider how prominently you feature it in your essay. If your Jewish heritage has been a central part of your life, there is no reason to downplay it. Just be mindful of how you frame your experiences, focusing on personal stories rather than political opinions.


2. Choosing the Right College as a Jewish Student

Given the current climate, some Jewish families are reconsidering which colleges to apply to. Here are three general approaches:

Option A: Attend a Jewish University

Some Jewish students may find comfort in attending a university with a strong Jewish identity. Schools like Brandeis University, Yeshiva University, and the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) offer robust Jewish communities. JTS, for example, is affiliated with Columbia University, allowing students to earn a dual degree from both institutions while being part of a dedicated Jewish campus environment. 

These institutions often have supportive infrastructures for Jewish students, including observance of Jewish holidays, kosher dining options, and classes on Jewish history and culture. For some, this can provide a safe and welcoming environment amidst growing antisemitism on other campuses. 

Option B: Consider Universities with Strong Jewish Populations in Supportive Regions

While universities with the largest Jewish student populations have also seen some of the highest numbers of antisemitic incidents, many Jewish students still find strong, supportive communities on these campuses. Columbia, Cornell, and Harvard have significant Jewish student populations, which can help create a sense of solidarity and community, even during difficult times.

Alternatively, many Southern universities, such as Tulane and the University of Texas at Austin, have become attractive options for Jewish students. These schools often have stricter rules regarding on-campus behavior and tend to have policies that ensure a safer environment for Jewish students. For example, at UT Austin, incidents involving anti-Israel or antisemitic protests were handled swiftly and effectively by campus security.

Option C: Attend a University to Maintain Jewish Presence on Campus

For some, the solution isn’t to avoid campuses with rising antisemitism but to face the challenge head-on. Jewish voices are crucial to fostering dialogue, fighting prejudice, and ensuring Jewish representation on American college campuses. Without them, campuses may see an even greater rise in intolerance. Students who are prepared to actively engage in campus life and advocate for themselves and others may choose to attend elite universities, even if these schools have seen antisemitic incidents.


3. Tips for Navigating College Life as a Jewish Student

Once on campus, there are several steps Jewish students can take to build a supportive community and feel safe:

Join Your Campus Hillel: 

Hillel International is present on most college campuses and serves as a hub for Jewish students. It offers opportunities to celebrate Jewish holidays, meet fellow Jewish students, and participate in social justice initiatives. Hillel also provides a space to build friendships and network with peers who share your values.

Connect with Campus Rabbis: 

Many universities, even those without strong religious affiliations, have campus rabbis. Building a relationship with a campus rabbi can be a great way to get advice on balancing religious practice with academic life, ask questions about Judaism, or simply have someone to talk to. 

Take Courses with Jewish Professors: 

Courses taught by Jewish professors can provide a deeper understanding of Jewish history, culture, and thought. These professors may also be more attuned to the unique challenges Jewish students face on campus, and they can be a valuable source of support and mentorship.

Join Jewish Interest Groups: 

Beyond Hillel, many campuses have Jewish cultural clubs, advocacy organizations, and social groups. These groups can be a way to explore specific aspects of your Jewish identity, whether through social events, political activism, or cultural programming.

Connect with Jewish Alumni: 

Jewish alumni can be valuable mentors and supporters as you navigate college and think about your future. They often have a deep understanding of the challenges Jewish students face and can offer guidance and encouragement.


Bottom Line

The college admissions process is challenging for all students, but recent events have added a new layer of complexity for Jewish applicants. Deciding where to apply, how to present oneself, and what kind of campus environment to seek are all important considerations. Ultimately, each student and family must make decisions based on their own comfort levels, priorities, and long-term goals.

For Jewish students who choose to attend campuses with higher levels of antisemitic activity, it is crucial to connect with supportive communities, seek out allies, and not be afraid to speak up against prejudice. Regardless of the campus environment, Jewish students have the right to feel safe, supported, and proud of their identity. By making informed decisions and seeking out communities that align with their values, Jewish students can find a college experience that allows them to thrive.

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Navigating College Admissions as a Jewish Student
Izzy Tanashian October 30, 2024
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