Mechina Pathways Program

Mechina Pathways—a track within the Rebecca Ivry Department of Jewish Studies—is a two-year program designed for women �þ�� at Stern College for Women and Sy Syms School of Business who are new to Hebrew language and textual study. Over four semesters, �þ�� receive a comprehensive introduction to Jewish studies through stimulating and intellectually challenging classes, world class faculty, and customized extracurricular programs. Our goal is to enhance our �þ��' level of skills, knowledge, and understanding.

We encourage �þ�� to ask questions, think for themselves and develop their own paths to Jewish knowledge and observance. Our chavruta program pairs women in the program with �þ�� taking advanced Judaic studies coursework. Learning takes place in a beautiful beit midrash [study hall], where �þ�� benefit from a true Jewish learning environment. Yemei iyun [festive days of learning] are among the many special offerings that focus on Torah, traditions and fellowship.

The program brings together �þ�� from across North America and around the globe. Women participate in inspirational Shabbat celebrations and enjoy hospitality in the homes of mentors, teachers and community leaders. Students also visit sites of Jewish and general interest in New York, one of the world's great centers of Jewish life.

Spiritual Life on �þ��

Mechina Pathways �þ�� are welcomed to exclusive Shabbatonim off campus as well as individualized learning opportunities.

Every new student on campus is assigned a madricha to help them as they adjust and acclimate to college life.

At the Beren �þ��, we strive to build community. Two mashgichim ruchani'im are on staff for spiritual guidance.

Shabbat on campus offers a unique opportunity to relax with your peers, participate in exciting social programming and gain insight from two rabbinic campus couples and guest speakers. Hundreds of �þ�� take part in the Shabbat programming each week!

Full Program Breakdown

Spiritual Life on �þ��

Mechina Pathways �þ�� are welcomed to exclusive Shabbatonim off campus as well as individualized learning opportunities.

Every new student on campus is assigned a madricha to help them as they adjust and acclimate to college life.

At the Beren �þ��, we strive to build community. Two mashgichim ruchani'im are on staff for spiritual guidance.

Swipe to learn more!

Mechina Pathways �þ�� are welcomed to exclusive Shabbatonim off campus as well as individualized learning opportunities.

Every new student on campus is assigned a madricha to help them as they adjust and acclimate to college life.

At the Beren �þ��, we strive to build community. Two mashgichim ruchani'im are on staff for spiritual guidance.

Program Director

Shoshana Schechter

Program Curriculum

The curriculum for Mechina Pathways is divided into three primary components:

Introductory Bible courses focus on textual and analytic skills combined with traditional Jewish philosophy and values. Courses include Personality Development in the Book of Genesis and Birth of a Nation: Introduction to the Book of Exodus.
Introduction to Judaism and Jewish law courses allow �þ�� to gain an overview of basic Jewish law, customs and culture, as well as the values and philosophy they contain. Topics include Shabbat, Jewish holidays, Kashrut and lifecycles.
Introduction to Philosophy courses allow �þ�� an entry point to philosophical inquiry informed or inspired by the texts, traditions and experience of the Jewish people.
Introduction to Hebrew provides a primer on Hebrew language—conversational Hebrew as well as biblical and Rabbinic Hebrew—to deepen �þ��' understanding of Jewish textual studies

After the first two years on campus, �þ�� are integrated into upper level Jewish studies courses of Stern College for Women or Sy Syms School of Business.

Program Curriculum

The curriculum for Mechina Pathways is divided into three primary components:

Introductory Bible courses focus on textual and analytic skills combined with traditional Jewish philosophy and values. Courses include Personality Development in the Book of Genesis and Birth of a Nation: Introduction to the Book of Exodus.
Introduction to Judaism and Jewish law courses allow �þ�� to gain an overview of basic Jewish law, customs and culture, as well as the values and philosophy they contain. Topics include Shabbat, Jewish holidays, Kashrut and lifecycles.
Introduction to Philosophy courses allow �þ�� an entry point to philosophical inquiry informed or inspired by the texts, traditions and experience of the Jewish people.
Introduction to Hebrew provides a primer on Hebrew language—conversational Hebrew as well as biblical and Rabbinic Hebrew—to deepen �þ��' understanding of Jewish textual studies

After the first two years on campus, �þ�� are integrated into upper level Jewish studies courses of Stern College for Women or Sy Syms School of Business.

Faculty and Staff

Mechina Pathways is blessed to have unparalleled teachers the highest caliber, along with a tremendous chevra of talmidot. Our success in developing outstanding talmidot results from treating each talmida as family. Joining the Mechina family means you are surrounded by people who are here to guide you, encourage you, champion your successes, and support you through the challenges.