Kahal: The Traveling Jew

posted January 2, 2025 by Alyza Feiler, Kahal Campus Representative

My name is Alyza Feiler, a Kahal campus rep for Brown University. After studying abroad last semester in London, I had the opportunity to get involved with Kahal, an organization that absolutely changed my life. Studying abroad as a Jew was a transformative experience that deepened my connection to Jewish life and community on a global scale. Although London is a place filled with Jews, when I left my home in New Jersey on New Years Eve, I had no expectations for Shabbat and Jewish life as a modern orthodox Jewish student leaving my “bubble”. Shortly after I arrived in London, it was recommended to me by a Hillel staff member of mine to join the Kahal group chat for London, so I figured I would give it a shot, and I never looked back!

Through Kahal, I was able to find Jewish communities in both London and the places I traveled to while abroad. I celebrated Shabbat and holidays with locals and other students. My experience with Kahal culminated in a group trip to Berlin for Shabbat. I engaged with the community there, met other students studying abroad and made connections that will last a lifetime! These experiences showed me the richness of Jewish diversity and the importance of staying connected to one’s faith, no matter where in the world you are. Inspired by these meaningful moments, I became a campus ambassador for Brown University, aiming to help other Jewish students create their own connections and explore Jewish life while studying abroad. Since beginning my role in September, I have found it incredibly rewarding to support peers in fostering a sense of belonging and identity during such a pivotal chapter of their lives. Take the leap, I promise you will NOT regret it!