NYC Gazette

This year's open houses at Yeshiva University provided high school juniors and seniors, along with their parents, a glimpse into the undergraduate experience offered by the institution. The event allowed prospective students to interact with professors and potential classmates while exploring various majors and degree programs available at YU.

The program commenced with an introduction to YU's mission by Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President of Yeshiva University. He stated, "If you are selected as one of the students who will come here, it's because we see in you the potential to not just live a life of meaning and purpose for yourself, but a life of leadership and responsibility for others."

Presentations were also given by Shoshana Schechter, Associate Dean of Torah Studies and Spiritual Life; Rabbi Yosef Kalinsky, Dean of Undergraduate Torah Studies; Marc Zharnest, Director of Admissions; Dr. Rebecca Cypess, Dean of Stern College for Women and Yeshiva College; and Dr. Noam Wasserman, Dean of the Sy Syms School of Business.

Attendees were informed about various study areas from university staff and current students. They learned about new initiatives such as the Honors Leadership Society and Katz Associate Programs. Information was also shared on student counseling services, pre-health guidance, athletics, extracurricular activities, housing options, spiritual life opportunities, and more.

Campus tours covered dormitories, classrooms, labs, dining facilities, and batei midrash. Breakout sessions led by representatives from different departments provided further insights into financial aid options and career strategies.

The Israel Program Expo concluded both open houses with presentations from partner schools within the S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program.

Marc Zharnest commented on the success of the event: "Yeshiva University’s Open Houses are incredible opportunities to showcase the unique community, mission, and academic excellence that define us.” He added that there has been significant growth in early decision honors applications this year.