NYC Gazette

Aryeh Urist's life is marked by resilience, faith, and a dedication to service. Born in Florida in 1987 and raised on Long Island, his upbringing emphasized adaptability and respect for diversity. His journey toward observant Judaism began at age 12 when he met Rabbi Howard Diamond during bar mitzvah preparations. This spiritual growth continued with Rabbi Jonathan Green at NCSY Camp Sports at Ner Israel Yeshiva in Baltimore, leading Aryeh to embrace a life of Torah and Jewish values.

Aryeh attended Yeshiva University in 2005, focusing on Torah learning and academics. He studied at the James Striar School of General Jewish Studies and graduated in 2010 with a B.A. in Economics from the Mazer Yeshiva Program. He received awards in Talmud (2009) and economics (2010) while forming lasting friendships with classmates like Yossi Landa and David Cohen.

After undergraduate studies, Aryeh joined YU’s pilot Master of Science in Quantitative Economics program but left to enlist in the Army as a Cryptologic Linguist (35P) analyzing signals intelligence. In 2017, he entered the Army’s Green to Gold program, completing leadership courses and serving as Battalion Signal Officer and Gold Bar Recruiter.

In 2019, Aryeh became a Second Lieutenant Military Intelligence Officer, later promoted to First Lieutenant with roles including Brigade Assistant Operations Officer. His military service included rigorous training at national centers. A significant test of faith occurred during Advanced Camp at Fort Knox on Tisha B’Av when he completed a demanding ruck march while fasting.

Despite challenges, Aryeh's commitment remained strong. He was awarded several medals including the Army Achievement Medal but considers divine protection his greatest honor.

Now certified as an EMT instructor in New York State, Aryeh shares values of humility and resilience with students. With an M.B.A. from Baruch College, he co-founded Getinline Inc., aligning work with personal values alongside raising eight children with his wife Chana.

Reflecting on his journey shaped by mentors and experiences especially during formative years at YU, Aryeh expresses gratitude to Hashem for every step taken so far hoping to share more through future memoirs focused on faith-driven purpose.