Hi, My name is Emma! I’m from Skokie, Illinois and am a senior at the University of Michigan where I am majoring in Social Theory and Practice and minoring in Judaic studies. Growing up, I spent my summers in Oconomowoc, WI at Olin Sang Ruby Union Institute (URJ OSRUI) where I have been a counselor and songleader for the past four summers! This year, I am also working at The Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor as the music teacher. I have a passion for Jewish music and love playing guitar and singing which I plan to incorporate into our classroom at Beit Sefer! I frequently lead Shabbat services on campus and have also taken Hebrew courses throughout high school and college.
I am so excited to join the AARC community because I can already feel the warmth and kindness that this community has to offer. Although I grew up in the Reform community, Reconstructionist Judaism greatly appeals to me as it allows one to make Judaism their own and gives one the opportunity to engage in practices and rituals that are meaningful to them. Additionally, as an outdoor lover, I am beyond excited to have several classes on the farm and talk about teva and Earth based Judaism. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or would like to connect: emmashim@umich.edu.