At a Glance
Hometown: Bellmore, NY
Major: International History
Certificate: Jewish Civilization
Minor: Journalism
Language: Spanish
Experience Abroad: Glasgow, United Kingdom
On-Campus Opportunities: Co-president of the Jewish Student Association (JSA); SFS Junior Centennial Fellow; Carroll Fellows Initiative; The Hoya; Campus Ministry Student Forum executive board member; Center for Jewish Civilization teaching assistant; Nomadic Theatre; Club Fencing
Off-Campus Opportunities: Interfaith Glasgow through the Improving the Human Condition Grant; Hey Alma; Rumi Forum
As an International History major at SFS, Rebecca Stekol (SFS’21) concentrated on the history of religious conflict in Europe and its effects on politics and power relations, specifically as it pertains to antisemitism. After receiving a grant for her Jewish Civilization thesis, Stekol was able to conduct research with the Jewish community in Glasgow, United Kingdom, and work with a local interfaith organization. Next year, she will present her research at the MLA International Symposium in Scotland. “I could not have done that without the support and funding from the SFS,” she says.
After graduation, Stekol plans to attend law school, become a public interest lawyer and get involved in the Jewish non-profit world. Her experiences with the Jewish Student Association, most recently as its co-president, have prepared Stekol for this career path by empowering her to relate her Jewish values to social justice efforts.