NYC Gazette

As part of their education and training to be intellectual, religious, and civic leaders, Straus Scholars are encouraged to take summer jobs, internships, and fellowships that build on their studies at the Straus Center. Many Scholars have spent this past summer participating in programs where they study aspects of public policy and philosophy relevant to their academic and personal interests. Over the coming months, we will highlight our students who have engaged in such enriching experiences.

In this installment, we feature Aharon Soloveichik (YC ‘25), who spent his summer with the American Enterprise Institute and the Beth Din of America. Examining the intricacies of contemporary American politics and halakhic jurisprudence, Soloveichik deepened his understanding of American and Jewish principles and their relevance to modern challenges.

"Tell us about the time you spent with the American Enterprise Institute this summer."

"At the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), I participated in 'The Future of American Politics,' a course led by Matthew Continetti. We examined the state of American politics through three main questions: How did we get here? What is the current situation? What does the future hold? Our goal was to uncover the underlying political trends and shifting dynamics of the American electorate. We studied two books: Where Have All the Democrats Gone? by John B. Judis and Ruy Teixeira, and Party of the People by Patrick Ruffini. The former presented the current thinking of the Democratic party while the latter explored the Republican perspective."

"What were some of the unique experiences you had at AEI? How did they shape your perspective on American politics?"

"One key aim of the course was engaging in dialogue on American politics with fellow undergraduates from across the country. The diverse backgrounds of the students ensured that every political perspective was represented, resulting in lively debates and discussions. Matt Continetti also invited guest speakers to enrich our understanding: Ruy Teixeira on the Democratic approach to the upcoming election, Patrick Ruffini on the Republican approach, Michael Kazin on the shifting electorate, and renowned pollster Doug Sosnik on polling trends. We also heard from Henry Olsen on what was then-the upcoming British election, and potential crossover trends between American and British politics.

Beyond seminars, we were also privileged to attend talks by various guest speakers who spoke to all AEI students. These included Danielle Pletka and Kenneth Pollack on Middle East issues; Rabbi Meir Soloveichik on Judaism's role in America; lessons from his new book Providence; Power; a live recording of The Remnant podcast hosted by Jonah Goldberg with guests Yuval Levin, Christine Rosen, Chris Stirewalt."

"You also interned at Beth Din of America. Please tell us more about that experience and what you learned about halakhic system."

"I interned for two months under Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig at Beth Din America where I observed inner workings court variety cases handles including gittin mediation divorced couples contract disputes other complex issues even given responsibility sign certification get Rabbi Rosensweig allowed me listen discussions between dayanim judges guided development psak ruling sharing relevant sources Talmud Shulchan Aruch patiently explained reasoning showing how sources incorporated final decision."

"Why do you believe your work this summer is important? How does your experience as a Straus scholar shape your thinking?"

"As a student in Straus Scholars program Yeshiva University one goals analyze great works Western canon synthesize them Torah AEI afforded terrific opportunity meticulously study state American politics better understand underlying trends principles This study modern political trends extension broader exploration Western thought ideas defined Western civilization continually reassessed light contemporary developments Understanding these trends not just analyzing current events recognizing how principles Western intellectual tradition being adapted address challenges 21st century

Similarly my time Beth Din America deepened understanding Jewish law application contemporary issues showing how Torah continues provide moral framework intersects modern legal political systems These summer internships allowed simultaneously pursue Straus Center’s goal deepening knowledge Western civilization Torah relevance present time"

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