When I graduated with my first B.A. in Anthropology from SUNY Plattsburgh, I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do. I spent six months abroad in Chester, England studying archeology and backpacking through Europe, and it was while I was touring world- famous cathedrals and art museums, that I discovered I possess a real passion for world religion. After enrolling in religion classes at Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA, I had my first encounter with the Jewish religion and soon realized that it was the discipline I wanted to spend the rest of my life studying. I immediately transferred to SUNY Albany where I now study for my (second) B.A. in Biblical history, Hebrew and French.

I am incredibly enthusiastic about my studies, an enthusiasm that my professors and I both share. Because the Judaic Studies department is so small, it permits for individual attention and interaction that allows me to thrive as a student. Also, the department offers such a wide variety of courses that I feel I am able to study any and all periods of Judaic history providing me a well-rounded understanding of the Jewish religion and culture. In the future, I look forward to completing an Honors thesis in the field of Ancient Israelite culture and anxiously await my opportunity to travel and study Hebrew in Israel this summer at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. One day, I hope to participate in archeological digs in Israel and eventually earn a doctorate in Ancient Israelite culture and religion.