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The Zahava and Moshael J. Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought Straus Scholars Program

The Zahava and Moshael J. Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought Straus Scholars Program seeks to identify and attract the aspiring intellectual leaders of tomorrow who demonstrate high academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to studying the great works of the Jewish and Western tradition.

Contact

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Program Director:
Rabbi Dr. Meir Soloveichik

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Contact: shaina.trapedo@yu.edu

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OVERVIEW

Straus Scholars pursue a course of study bridging Torah and art, literature, philosophy and political science. They will benefit from unique mentorship, networking and internship opportunities and participate in intellectual winter break trips to Israel and Europe.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Students must apply and be accepted to either the S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program (Stern College for Women) or the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein Honors Program (Yeshiva College). Students applying for a program in the Sy Syms School of Business are not eligible for this scholars program.
  • Applicants should have excelled in general and Jewish Studies in high school with a deep interest in both Jewish and Western thought, and exhibit leadership potential through extracurricular activities and community involvement
  • Applicants will be asked to respond to 1 of the 2 question prompts in 500-700 words:
    • Benjamin Franklin once recommended that the national insignia of the United States depict the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. In what way do you think the story of the Jewish people can and should continue to inspire America today?
    • Describe the impact a secular text has had on your religious life as a Jew, and/or a Torah text that has inspired your thinking as a member of Western society

BENEFITS

  • Straus courses prioritize the development of critical thinking, close-reading, and writing skills while facilitating open debate and the meaningful exchange of ideas
  • Straus Scholars are encouraged to publish their written work, engage with think tanks, and pursue prestigious summer fellowships, internships, and research opportunities
  • Through its Impact Office, Straus Scholars gain exclusive access to leading journalists, policy makers and academics, and receive curated professional guidance and internship placement

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

  • Straus Scholars are required to take eight (8) Straus classes over the course of their time at Yeshiva University, and they will write a thesis in their senior year
    The Straus thesis satisfies the honors thesis requirement
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