At Menorah, our morning Jewish studies, as are typical in Orthodox schools, focused primarily on Gemara/Talmudic studies. I genuinely enjoyed my Jewish learning there and have no regrets.
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However, it was only after moving to Miami that I realised just how much I had been missing. Alongside continued Talmudic study, I began to delve into the rich world of Chabad philosophy and partake in hands-on outreach work - something that is central to the activist way of Chabad.
The days in yeshiva are quite intense if you take your studies seriously. We begin at 7.30 in the morning and usually finish around 9.30 in the evening, sometimes even later, depending on the day.
Our day is divided between studying Gemara - a collection of complex Jewish legal debates - Chabad philosophy, and halacha, which is just standard Jewish law. Learning takes place both through lectures, delivered by our rabbis and through chavrusa study - paired learning with a study partner.
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That said, there’s still time to relax and recharge. Between learning sessions, many of us head to the park two minutes away to play football, listen to music, or simply take time for ourselves. Whether you’re into working out, reading, or have another interest, there’s definitely room in the day to pursue it. The intensity of each session varies, which helps keep the overall experience balanced and manageable.
Miami, of course, isn’t a bad place to be. My dormitory is just five minutes from the beach, and I’ve grown to love the tropical weather. But more importantly, I now have the incredible opportunity to learn from some of the most respected rabbis in the Chabad world - intellectual, kind, and reflective individuals, who have inspired me immensely.
One of the most uplifting aspects of life here is the extent to which Chabad in Miami reaches out to less-affiliated Jews. Every Friday, the yeshiva sends its students out to various parts of the area to help men wrap tefillin, and to distribute Shabbat candles to women.
In December, I had the privilege of attending an exhibition about the Nova festival, where a friend and I helped over 105 men put on tefillin and gave out countless Shabbat candles.
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Alongside that, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at events ranging from small gatherings of 20 to crowds of over 100, and to help organise Chanukah parades, large public menorah lightings, and similar outreach initiatives. These outreach experiences are incredibly rewarding. Every month I meet hundreds of people - from all walks of life, with all kinds of stories.
Being able to connect, to share in someone’s Jewish journey, and to help them perform a mitzvah is something I feel privileged to do.
As part of the regular “Shabbat-offs”, I have been fortunate enough to spend weekends in Chicago, New York and Key West - each with a different culture and atmosphere.
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Of course, the cultural shift, living in the States, has been noticeable. Many of my American friends are, in many ways, quite different to my British friends - in character, mannerisms, and general outlook. Adjusting to a new country, new people, and a very different education system has certainly had its moments, but overall, it’s been an overwhelmingly positive experience.
Thankfully, the dots have connected so nicely. I have very few regrets about the choices I’ve made, and I’m grateful every day for the journey I’m on.
