Iris Krandel

How has your involvement with mn hillel impacted your involvement as a jewish young adult?

My involvement with MN Hillel empowered me to become a powerful leader and change-maker as a Jewish young adult. I slowly but surely found my voice with the guidance of Benjie & Justin as we started the first Leadership Assembly and I became an Engagement Intern on the student board. After graduating from the U, I participated in Avodah's Jewish Service Program. As much as this environment provided me with a built-in Jewish community, it also presented me with opportunities to pave my own path and identity in the Chicago Jewish landscape. Without my experiences at MN Hillel, I would not have felt comfortable planning Shabbats for my housemates, attending services at different congregations, and eventually participating in Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago: Young Leadership Division's offerings such as LEADS, Mensches in Motion, and Gesher. I know that my journey is only just beginning. I will continue to use my involvement with MN Hillel as a guide for how I engage in the Jewish community moving forward.

What is your favorite memory from your undergrad experience with MN Hillel?

My favorite memory from undergrad is actually a tie between Friday afternoon basketball games (so jealous of the new court) and watching homecoming parades on Hillel's front steps. It brought my love of staying active, showing my school spirit, and reflecting on the week together for endless good times. I would go back and do it all over again, if I had the chance.

How do you incorporate Judaism into your life today?

I incorporate Judaism into my life in many ways today, but one that has remained the most consistent is hosting Shabbat Dinners for friends. I love every aspect of it, from crafting a fun invitation to planning an exciting meal to ultimately opening up my home to my favorite people (Pre-COVID, of course). I feel so grateful to have a partner as well to share this experience with and to continue building on years of tradition.

What is your advice for current students interested in getting involved Jewishly post-graduation?

Try new things! This is the first time that nobody is telling you how to live a Jewish life, and it's really exciting. There are no rules on what the best way is to get involved. You just have to try one thing at a time, and eventually you will find what feels right. It could be attending or hosting OneTable Shabbats, it could be volunteering at a Jewish community center, it could be joining a Jewish book club, or it could be as simple carrying on the values that were passed onto you. The most important thing to remember is that no matter what path you follow it is the right one for you.

What career path did you follow? How did you choose this path?

I currently work in Non-Profit Development at a Chicago-based organization, which provides technical assistance and grants to food banks around the world. I chose this path because of my passion for supporting underserved communities. I believe everyone should have equal access to basic needs such as food and hygiene products. I find this career to be so fulfilling, and I look forward to continuing to change people's lives for the better.