Anticipation and Anxiety

For returning students the start of a new school year at Yeshiva is filled with excitement and anticipation. These years are a time of religious and personal growth. At Yeshiva, one has the opportunity for strengthening friendships and developing life-long relationships with mentors, while values become internalized and career plans are firmed.

Emotions are different for the beginning student. For those returning from Israel doubts exist about the permanence of changes made and how to integrate the old and new elements in their lives. Those coming directly upon graduation from high school and early admission students are nervous about the extent of the changes from high school. The anticipation of the returnees is balanced by the anxiety of the new students.

While the bulk of responsibility of making the welcome positive and easing the tension rightfully falls on the administration and staff, much can be done as well by older students. Warmth and friendship can come from all of us. For most students Yeshiva is the largest yeshiva or school they have attended, and by far the most complex. The opportunities are not obvious to those who are overwhelmed and the demands appear to outweigh the potential rewards. A pleasant smile and a little friendly advice and support can accomplish wonders.

Perhaps balancing anticipation and anxiety would be healthy for all of us as we start the year. It is the beginning of Elul, a time for reflection. Complacency limits growth as much as fear. Let us recognize the great potential that exists for deepening our commitments while studying at Yeshiva while not ignoring the full extent of the challenge. Working together is a critical component in maximizing success.