Jewish Stories that Inspire
Jewish life at Hunter is shaped by the people who call it home—students, alumni, staff, and board members. Explore personal stories that reflect resilience, growth, and the power of community.
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By Stephanie Pincus, Student President, Class of 2025
Sometimes, I forget how much has changed. I walk into the Hunter Hillel lounge, and it feels so natural—greeting students, checking in with my team, setting up for another Not Shabbat Shabbat. It’s routine now. But if you had told freshman-year me that I’d be running student leadership meetings… Read more →
A Lifelong Commitment to Jewish Life & Leadership
By Zena Kaufman, Board Member
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching students walk through our doors unsure of where they belong, only to leave as confident leaders, ready to shape the Jewish future. I’ve seen them take on internships, advocate for Israel, organize meaningful programs, and create lasting friendships… Read more →
A Defining Moment
By Ester Shamailova, Former Student President, Class of 2019
We had just set up the chairs when I heard the shouting. At first, I thought it was noise from the hallway, but then I saw them—students standing outside our event, holding signs, chanting. My stomach twisted. I glanced around the room. Other Jewish students were shifting uncomfortably, exchanging nervous glances... Read more →
Finding My Own Jewish Path at Hunter Hillel
By Ezra Avitsur, Hunter College ’27
I used to think I didn’t have a place in the Jewish community. My journey with Judaism has never been simple—it’s been filled with twists, turns, and a lot of questions. I grew up Orthodox, deeply connected to tradition, but at some point, I drifted. I moved away from religious observance, and with that came a struggle to figure out where I truly belonged.. Read more →
I Came for the Community, I Left with a Purpose
By Leah Rubin, Hunter College ’24
I never expected to find a real sense of community at Hunter. People always say that making friends here is impossible—everyone is in a rush, running to class, commuting home, or heading to their next internship. But when I moved into my single-unit dorm, the loneliness hit me harder than I thought it would. I wanted something more, a place where I could connect with people who actually saw me.. Read more →