NYC Gazette

Nine students have been named the 2024 undergraduate valedictorians at Yeshiva University, recognized for their academic achievements and overall excellence. YU News spoke with each of them to learn about their experiences at YU and future plans.

Rachelli Benoff from Bergenfield, New Jersey, majored in Jewish Education at Stern College for Women. She is pursuing a master’s in Jewish education at the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration and teaching at Yeshivat Noam in Paramus, New Jersey. Reflecting on her time at YU, she noted the influence of professors who exemplify "Torah U’Maddah" and appreciated the opportunity to explore diverse subjects within a Torah environment.

Limor Kohanim from Milan, Italy, majored in computer science with a minor in math. She will join UBS as a software engineer in their Tech Graduate Talent Program. Her extracurriculars included leadership roles in TAMID and participation in international student activities. Kohanim emphasized that her time at YU prepared her for real-world challenges and helped her form valuable connections.

Yoni Fine from Riverdale, New York, is a psychology major with an English minor who plans to attend Yale Law School next year. He valued YU's encouragement of excellence across all areas of life and hopes to use the values learned to make a positive impact.

Ahuva Abraham from Teaneck, New Jersey, majored in business analytics with minors in biology and strategy & entrepreneurship. She is seeking a data analytics position in healthcare. At YU, she engaged actively with clubs like TAMID and Venture Capital Club. Abraham highlighted the importance of mentorship and dedication instilled by her professors.

Moshe Wolff from New Rochelle, New York, is majoring in finance with a minor in real estate. He is considering career options in finance or real estate or pursuing semicha. Wolff appreciated how YU supported both his religious growth and academic development.

Sam Drazin from Montreal, Canada, double-majored in computer science and math. He plans to continue learning at YU next year and praised the university for offering numerous opportunities for growth.

Asher Martin grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, before moving to London. The marketing major minored in strategy & entrepreneurship and looks forward to making aliyah after graduation. His next steps include being a madrich at Aish HaTorah in Jerusalem while pursuing semicha. Martin credits his growth during his time at YU to inspiring Rebbeim and friends.

Andrew Warren from Houston, Texas, double-majored in finance and accounting and will work at PwC starting September. He was president of the Comedy Club among other roles.

Yaakov Baker from Stoughton, Massachusetts, majored in computer science on the distributed systems track with employment lined up at Raytheon. He was involved extensively with Student Council activities including serving as Wilf president of the Anime & Manga Club.