In my first few weeks here, my original intention was to audit a class through the Jewish studies department. I had double majored in Sociology and Near Eastern & Judaic Studies as an undergrad, and thought I might have the opportunity to pursue this further. The class I chose was on “Teaching the Holocaust”, taught by Professor Simone Schweber. However, when I spoke with Simone, she discouraged me from taking the class, as she thought it would be repetitive for me. What developed was the suggestion that I help her as a research assistant for a book she was writing. Simone and I met, and made a great connection. Simone is a great resource in general- she is a personal friend of Greg and Andrea’s, and can be counted on for great advice. Professionally, Simone teaches in the School of Education, as well as in the Jewish Studies department. This year, I helped her compile materials for a book she is writing about teaching the Holocaust in primary grades. Simone and I met from time to time to discuss what books I should read, and to talk about her goals for writing the book. I spent some time doing research on children’s Holocaust literature at the CCBC in Helen C. White library.
In all, I think my Jewish learning for the year was a combination of the time I spent working with Simone, as well as my work with Rabbi Andrea. Andrea has become a great mentor for me, both in and out of formal Jewish learning sessions we had as a staff from time to time.
For next year, I would like to find a way to make my work with Simone more regular, and streamlined.