YU Is The Place To Be

KYHS Seniors Are Interviewed By Yeshiva University's Admissions Office

Graphic by Talya Zaretzky ('27)

This past Tuesday, three representatives from the Yeshiva University Office of Admissions made the trip down to sunny South Florida to give students at Katz Yeshiva High School an inside look at the Yeshiva University experience. The visit provided students with an opportunity to learn more about YU directly from members of its admissions team and gain a better understanding of what life at the university has to offer.

The representatives showcased the many aspects of Yeshiva University, from its academic programs and Jewish life to its campus community and opportunities for students to pursue their individual interests and career goals. Leading the presentation was Admissions Director Mr. Ari Lewis, who went in depth on the different components of the YU experience and what distinguishes the university from other colleges. Rather than focusing solely on academics, the presentation highlighted YU’s combination of a rigorous college education with a strong commitment to Jewish values, Torah learning, and community.

For Mr. Lewis and his team, however, the visit was about more than simply presenting information about YU. From the moment they arrived, the KYHS community made an impression on the admissions representatives. Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Lewis shared, “Starting with my presentation, the students made me and my team feel welcome and treated us with the utmost respect. The administration should be proud of how they represented the school.”

For many students, the presentation offered a valuable opportunity to hear directly from YU’s admissions office and get answers to questions that can be difficult to find online. Benny Hochner (’27) shared his thoughts, commenting that “the presentation was a great way to learn about YU, and it really gave me a genuine perspective on the only university in this country that fully aligns with Jewish values and thought.”

Following the presentation, the YU representatives held informal one-on-one interviews with prospective seniors throughout Tuesday and Wednesday. These conversations allowed students to discuss their backgrounds, hobbies, academic interests, and future career goals while also asking questions of their own. Mr. Lewis added that “[i]n their interviews, students were engaging and thoughtful and asked really great questions.” Students also appreciated the opportunity to interact directly with members of the YU community. Reflecting on her experience, Baila White (’27) said, “I really enjoyed my interview. It was great getting to know some of the faculty and how the school runs.”

Overall, the Yeshiva University visit was a resounding success, giving students valuable information while allowing them to gain a more personal perspective on the university. As the visit came to a close, Mr. Lewis expressed his excitement about seeing KYHS students at YU in the future. “I wish they could all come to YU! I can’t wait to see some of the best and brightest from Katz on our campus in the near future.” Ultimately, the visit helped students address one of the most important questions any college must answer: Why you?

Article by Cobey Nadel ('27)

The Holiest Prep

KYHS Prepares For Yom Kippur

Graphic by Evie Lewinger ('27)



Yom Kippur does not just begin when we get to shul on Yud Tishrei. The holiday may only be one day, but at KYHS, the preparation starts much earlier. From morning teshuva drashas during Elul and Tishrei to student divrei Torah throughout the Aseret Yemei Teshuva, our school has reminded us that the chag is about more than simply showing up with a machzor in hand.

One of the biggest parts of our prep has been learning about teshuva. Throughout Elul and Tishrei, our teachers have given meaningful morning drashas focused on preparing for this period. During the Aseret Yemei Teshuva, students give daily divrei Torah, bringing different perspectives to our days. Rabbi Hochman’s famous “Halacha of the Day” has also focused on halachot connected to this time of year, including the custom of eating only pas yisrael during the Aseret Yemei Teshuva.

During davening, we’ve continued saying Selichot and Avinu Malkeinu, giving us another opportunity to focus our thoughts on this time of year. Eliana Tokayer (‘27) described Avinu Malkeinu as a tefillah she genuinely looks forward to, especially as she reads both the Hebrew and English. For her, the tefillah helps her see Hashem “not as Someone to be afraid of, but as Someone to admire.”

Our prep also extends beyond the classroom. Mrs. Zisquit once again brought her classes to the campus lake for Tashlich, her yearly tradition.

And we can’t forget our favorite school tradition—listening to Izzy Gately’s (‘26) Yom Kippur song, “Tissues” for a little extra inspiration. 

Another tradition did not become one of Rabbi Wolk’s famous national holidays. Could we turn the Great Lawn into a massive chicken coop for kaparot? Rabbi Wolk answered, “My family custom is to use money for kaparot, and I don’t think David, our security guard, would let us wave chickens around campus.”

Either way, KYHS has been preparing for the chag in many exciting ways throughout Aseret Yemei Teshuva. Yom Kippur is coming, are you ready?

Pro-tip: Drink plenty of hydrating drinks!

Article by Rachel Rosenhouse ('27)

More Than Just A Sing-Along

KYHS Hosts The First Kumzitz Of The Year

Graphic by Technical Staff

This week’s girls kumzits was an empowering and uplifting experience that brought all of the KYHS girls together. Sitting in a circle and singing with my classmates created a strong feeling of connection and unity. It was a meaningful opportunity to step away from the usual busy routine of a school day and spend time together in a spiritual and uplifting environment.

Evie Lewinger ('27) reflected on her experience saying, “I love kumzitses, and this one in particular made me feel connected to Hashem through song.”

Mrs. Horowitz led the kumzits and created a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the program. She stood in the middle of the circle and led the girls in song, encouraging everyone to participate. As the kumzits continued, the voices of all the girls singing together created a powerful sense of unity.

A special part of the kumzits was hearing from senior Emma Horowitz ('27), who spoke to the girls and shared her personal inspiration. Emma encouraged us to reflect on our relationship with Hashem and the importance of continuing to grow spiritually. Emma reflected: “I loved being able to share chizzuk with my friends and teachers.” 

The kumzits was more than just an hour of singing. It gave us an opportunity to connect with Hashem, strengthen our relationships with one another, and appreciate the community we have at school. The kumzits was a beautiful reminder of the power of coming together through music, friendship, and spirituality.

Article by Aviva Sered ('27)