In May 2007, I graduated with honors from the University at Albany with a double major in Judaic Studies and Psychology and a minor in Educational Studies. In 2007, I was a recipient of the Calvin and Patricia Zippin Endowment Scholarship and in 2006 the Fishman Fund Grant.

Being a Judaic Studies major provided me with a greater understanding about my Jewish identity. I was able to gain knowledge about the vast history, the languages, and the culture. When reflecting on my undergraduate years, the challenging coursework certainly prepared me for graduate school - which I am very grateful for. Professor Trachtenberg and Professor Harris were wonderful mentors in guiding me on the path towards academic success.

With a passion for learning about language and culture, I continued my graduate education here at the University at Albany. I am pursuing a Master of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). I recently received the Paul Saimond Memorial Scholarship (School of Education) and the Albert N. Husted Fellowship (UAlbany Alumni Association). I am a member of Omicron Delta Kappa (a national leadership honor society) and was recently inducted into Kappa Delta Pi (an international education honor society). I will be graduating in May 2009 with certification as a K-12 TESOL Specialist. In July 2009, I am getting married and will be moving to Northern Virginia.