At Emet Outreach, education is central to engaging unaffiliated Jewish students with the beauty of Torah and mitzvos. Emet’s inspiring programming begins on local college campuses with its flagship “Leaders Fellowship.” The fall Fellowships are currently underway at St. John’s University, Stony Brook University, Baruch College, and in Forest Hills for students from multiple campuses. This co-ed introductory learning program is the first step to gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for Judaism. Over the course of ten weeks, students participate in meaningful learning sessions that begin with dinner and a group lesson. Students then break into smaller groups for learning, facilitated by Emet educators.
As part of this Fellowship, students attend two immersive Shabbatons. These Shabbatons are an integral part of the program, and for many it provides their first Shabbos experience. Rabbi Reuven Kigel, Emet’s Campus Director, said, “Our Shabbat experience makes our students part of our family and allows them to focus for 25 hours and truly feel what it is like to be an observant Jew.”
Students who successfully complete the Fellowship program will have an opportunity to participate in Emet’s life-altering Poland and Prague trip.
“We created the Fellowship program to reach motivated college students with limited Judaic background,” said Rabbi Akiva Rutenberg, Emet Director and Co-Founder. “Our goal is to empower our students to become future Jewish leaders who are equipped with the knowledge to inspire their communities and build their own families. A solid Jewish education is the first step in ensuring the future of Jewish continuity.”