A Defining Moment

Young woman with long dark hair, wearing a black dress and beige cardigan, standing at night on a balcony with city lights in the background.
Two young women smiling and posing for a photo at a social gathering in a bright room with large windows, with other people in the background.
Group of four young women smiling and embracing each other in a room with large windows, with other people and a mirror visible in the background.

We had just set up the chairs when I heard the shouting. At first, I thought it was noise from the hallway, but then I saw them—students standing outside our event, holding signs, chanting. My stomach twisted. I glanced around the room. Other Jewish students were shifting uncomfortably, exchanging nervous glances.

I was the president of Hunter Hillel at the time, responsible for making sure everyone felt welcome, safe. But in that moment, I wasn’t sure how to reassure them when I felt so uncertain myself.

That event wasn’t controversial. It was meant to be a space for conversation, for learning. But here we were, being protested just for showing up as Jewish students on campus. I could have let the fear sink in, let the moment pass. Instead, I stood up, took a deep breath, and welcomed everyone in.

That moment changed everything for me.

Group of college students smiling and posing together in a classroom with a whiteboard and a TV in the background.

Hunter Hillel didn’t just give me a place to feel comfortable—it gave me the confidence to lead, to advocate, to stand up for Jewish students when it wasn’t easy. I learned how to organize, how to rally support, how to build a strong community even in the face of opposition. It wasn’t always easy, but I knew I wasn’t alone.

Now, years later, I carry that strength with me. The skills I built at Hunter Hillel—public speaking, community leadership, resilience—continue to shape my work and my Jewish identity.

Looking back, I realize that being Jewish on campus isn’t just about celebrating—it’s about showing up. And that’s exactly what I did.

–Ester Shamailova, Former Student President, Class of 2019