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Hebrew Union College Rabbinic Studies: Application Essays
Essay #1
Reflect on a Torah portion that you have found meaningful or challenging. You may include classical or contemporary commentary that has been helpful to you in understanding the text.Essay #2
What do you find most compelling and most challenging about Reform Judaism? What are the most significant issues facing the movement today, and what is the role of the rabbi and the movement in addressing these?Essay #3
Write a critical review of a book on a Jewish subject or theme that you have read in the past year. Why would you or would you not recommend this book to readers?
Personal
Statement
Why have you chosen to apply to become a
rabbi? Discuss your intellectual, religious and spiritual development as well as
the life experiences that have led you to make this decision. In addition, in
the personal statement include reflection on one of the following:
1. The evolution of your current Jewish practice
2. Your relationship with Israel
3. Your conception of and relationship with God
4. The role of peoplehood and community in Jewish life today