Zakhar Berkovich's UAlbany experience broadened his future horizons while returning him to his roots.
In 2001, Berkovich's family moved to Staten Island, NY, to escape religious intolerance in Belarus, a former part of the Soviet Union. Berkovich chose UAlbany-SUNY because it offered an excellent education at a great value. Plus, it afforded him a world of opportunity not far from his Staten Island home.
Tapping the range of UAlbany's academic programs, Berkovich accomplished two very important personal goals. First, as a biology major, he was able to prepare himself for a career in medicine. His double major in Judaic studies helped him gain a better understanding of his personal background and roots.
He attributes his success to his Honors College experience and to several professors.
Mentored by Rachel Harris in the Department of Judaic Studies, Berkovich chose an eye-opening research topic: "Identity of the Russian Jewish Immigrant Writers in U.S.A and Israel, 1980 - Present."
He credits Harris and other accomplished faculty members with inspiring him to become more involved in the University and the community. As a result, he joined Hillel, the student judicial board, and the Western Turnpike Rescue Squad, and became an admissions tour guide and resident assistant, among other activities.
His contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including President's Awards for Leadership, Residential Life Outstanding Achievement Award, School Spirit of the Year Award, and the Outstanding Senior Award.
Berkovich will delay medical school to continue his work with Harris and pursue a master's degree in educational administration at UAlbany.
Read Zak's senior memoir.
