In a disappointing blow to Yeshiva University undergraduates, the Office of the President released an announcement on February 5th stating that they were discontinuing the Presidential Fellowship next year. Although the message only alluded to the current financial predicament, this new development is not a surprise in light of the hot-topic discussion of upcoming budget cuts. This comes as a setback to many seniors who were considering the Presidential Fellowship as a viable option for post-graduation.
For the past ten years, one hundred fifty Yeshiva University students were offered the opportunity to partake in a year-long fellowship aiding the Office of the President with various duties in the many different departments of the university. In addition to working within the different areas of the school, there were weekly seminars that feature speakers discussing a variety of topics from professional development to leadership roles and opportunities in the greater Jewish community. Beyond the valuable work experience, the fellows received a stipend for their contributions.
A current fellow and graduate from the class of 2013, Joanna Ross-Tash currently works in the Yeshiva University Museum. Her primary role at the museum is to serve as a liaison between the museum and the students, and in addition she serves as a teacher’s assistant to Dr. Jacob Wisse’s Introduction to Art class.
When asked for a comment regarding her reactions to the discontinuation of the program, Ross-Tash noted, “While I do believe the Presidential Fellowship is a valuable program, I think that the University is right to focus their attention on the undergraduate students. Hopefully, the Presidential Fellowship will be able to continue soon, but I do understand why it will be taking a hiatus next year.” The President’s office did not indicate any definite time in the future when the program will be reinstated.
Although focusing attention on the undergraduate student body was a major emphasis in the explanation shared with students, current seniors who hoped to partake in the program next year are very disappointed.
One such senior, Hannah Rozenblat, was eager to participate in the fellowship next year. She saw it as a valuable opportunity for YU students who wish to continue being in the YU environment while gaining experience apropos to their future careers.
Rozenblat stated, “I was planning on applying for a fellowship that was directly related to the career I was interested in pursuing… I am disappointed because it is denying students like me a wonderful opportunity to be involved in YU.”
Although YU’s financial burdens are a matter of grave concern, this change is amongst the first cuts which turns the financial situation from mere speculation into a tangible reality for students. As seniors look for alternative plans for next year, the student body can only hope these type of cuts will not turn into a recurring trend.