This year, I began pursuing my Arabic minor. Thus far, I absolutely love it. The language is engaging and unique; I find myself gaining a deeper appreciation for it every day. I’m hoping to spend this summer pursing an Arabic intensive in either Jordan or Morocco, to help further my progress and immerse me in the culture.

I find myself at an interesting crossroad when I truly think about studying Arabic or tell anyone about this facet of my education. Not only am I studying Arabic, when can be controversial within itself, but I identify as Jewish and am studying Arabic. The two seem to be diametrically opposed, perpetuated by the Palestinian/Israel conflict. I’m expected to hold certain beliefs that correspond with my religion or with my area of interest. However the reality is that I don’t fit either of these paths, I hold my own beliefs and don’t fit into either category. I am at a fork in the road, but am stuck in the middle. I cannot pursue either path due to barriers placed by those on the other side.

As a result, I have decided to forge my own path between the two forks. I refuse to be confined by what others believe and the labels placed on me. My path is narrow and treacherous and I will almost fall off it many times. I am certain that I will never regret this decision and hope to use my position as a Jew and Arabic student to shine new light on the political conflicts currently occurring. I refuse to let others tell me what to think or believe, and value my ability to see both sides.

Though I will be taken a road rarely traveled, and certainly not the easiest option, I have faith that this will “[make] all the difference.”

This week marks the beginning of Legacy Week, a Mount Leadership Society program that encourages service and giving back to the community, focused on different areas of interest. I am lucky enough to be a captain for Team Abuse, and I couldn’t be more excited. There are so many possibilities for service that can be done in Columbus centered around abuse, and this is an area I am very passionate about. I work with amazing co-captains and a wonderful team, and I know that everyone is going to bring their A-games to truly make a difference in the community. Even though we haven’t really started yet, I know this will be a life-changing experience, and I’m excited to show everyone what I’ve got!

http://sphinx.phanfare.com/5566537_6323815

Sphinx Plaza is hidden in a corner of the Oval, behind the looming shadow of Thompson Library. You can only truly see it if you know what you’re looking for; so many other people tend to walk past this alcove, but it has become a haven to me.

My sister was in the 106th class of Sphinx, a senior honorary dedicated to scholarship, leadership, and service. My sister is far and away one of my biggest role models, and as a preteen who couldn’t even fathom the concept of applying to college, I was inspired by her time in Sphinx. I made it my mission to eventually join the honorary, and make as much a difference at Ohio State as she did during her time as a student.

Sphinx is the shining beacon at the end of the tunnel, one of the many things I am working towards that motivates me to keep going when I only want to give up.

Not only does Sphinx motivate me, but it acts as a shelter for me, a way to escape when I am overwhelmed. More often than not, you can find me at Sphinx Plaza, doing homework or taking a break in between classes. It is one of my favorite places on campus, and sitting by the names of all the individuals who have been changed by being in the honorary inspires me.

“If they could do it, so can I.”

Who knows where I’ll be in four years, if I will still want to be in Sphinx 113 or if my priorities will change to better reflect who I will become. Regardless, I will be eternally grateful for the small respite that Sphinx Plaza provides me, how it both shelters me when I feel like giving up, and how it pushes me to be the best version of myself and make an impact on campus.