Being a Jewish student in the American college system over the last few years has brought many beautiful moments into my life. Nothing comforts me more than finding a Jewish community wherever I go. Being a very active member of Chabad has taught me just that. The Chabad at the University at Buffalo has truly become a home away from home – a community unlike any other throughout my time both at and away from school. I have learned that wherever I am in the world, finding a vibrant Jewish community is like finding an anchor in a storm.

Following the tragic events of October 7, 2023, the world has become a very hateful place towards Jews. Antisemitism and tension has surged across college campuses worldwide. Protests, hatred, and security requirements, became part of our everyday reality. These incidents certainly sting – especially when those you thought you knew well, reveal themselves to be very different.

Yet, we have not let that bring us down. What those who engage in malice fail to understand is that they drive us to only further deepen our Jewish identities. The outcome is a much stronger Jewish population than our generation has ever known. Out of this comes far more pride and bravery.

Still, how does the hatred and the yelling benefit them? This is something I have been trying to understand. The conclusion I have come to is that their strength and unity comes from hostility, while ours comes from love for our people, our communities, and from simply defending ourselves.

When the environment around us feels dark, we don't dim our light to match it. We turn it up instead. That is the true essence of Kiddush Hashem (sanctifying God's name). Rather than shouting back, we hold our heads high and do good as we have learned our entire lives.

The Chabad of Buffalo has gifted me with the most valuable and inspiring aspects of my entire college career. I am graduating early in December, but I am taking so much with me – including some of my very best friends in the world. From immersing myself in Friday night dinners and event planning as a board member, to celebrating holidays, taking Jewish U classes, and running our social media, these experiences have shaped my college years.

While my personal story was shaped by the Chabad of Buffalo, Jewish campus life across the country offers incredible spaces for everyone — from local Hillel organizations nationwide to our very own Rockland Hillel serving students right here at RCC.

Of course, the experiences won’t look exactly the same for everyone, however I simply want to emphasize how truly enriching they are. I encourage any Jewish students who are living college life disconnected from the Jewish communities around them to try experiencing these moments just once. Who knows? It might just win you over. :)

That same impulse to stay connected applies wherever life takes you, whether traveling or moving to a new place. Even if it may not be your first instinct, make it a point to seek out a local Jewish community or Chabad for Friday night dinner or simply a chat. We all have the “Jewish Geography” trait engraved in us anyway, so we might as well exercise it!

Building those connections everywhere you go creates an incredible support network. In fact, that exact habit of staying engaged within our community is what led me directly to my internship position right here at the Jewish Federation of Rockland County. I am ever so grateful for all it has offered.

Warmly,
Jessica Sperling
Communications Intern, Jewish Federation of Rockland County
University at Buffalo, Class of '27