Connecting Judaism to Israel

By Jessica Mandell
Binghamton University

Conservative Judaism has always been an important part of my life. Back in high school, I was extremely involved with my local USY chapter, as well as the Hagalil region. I held several leadership positions, as well as participated in numerous events and activities throughout my four years in USY. Being a part of USY taught me a lot about being Jewish. I learned about many of the core values of being a Conservative Jew, resulting in the ability to gain a better sense of who I was and what I wanted to become.

It was because of my experiences in USY that I decided to go to college at Binghamton University. Binghamton is very unique because of the large population of Jews on campus and extremely active Hillel organization. When I came to Binghamton and saw the way so many students were involved in Hillel, it gave me a sense of belonging and a feeling of community.

Getting involved with Hillel and their KOACH group has just strengthened my values as a Conservative Jew. I love participating in Shabbat services and dinner at school, and I always look forward to coming home to celebrate the holidays with my family. I was even able to go to Israel last summer for the first time as part of the Hillel Birthright group. That was definitely a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget!

One of the most important values in Conservative Judaism is keeping a focus on Israel. My involvement with Hillel has definitely helped me become more connected to Israel and has encouraged me to go back. After I graduate from college, I plan to return to Israel for a little while. While I am there, I want to get involved and find a way to make a difference. When I was there over the summer, I felt such a connection to Israel and the people there. Israel is our homeland, and as Jews, it is necessary to do what we can in order to ensure that we remain part of that strong Jewish community.

Jessica Mandell is a sophomore nursing student at Binghamton University. She is very involved with the Hillel on campus, as well as the American Cancer Society's Colleges Against Cancer chapter.

[Posted 2/13/10]