Student Spotlight: Berel Elewitz
Chasidic Grad Sets his Sights on a Career Combining Mental Health and Law Enforcement
Touro SLE student Berel Elewitz shares how Touro is helping him pursue his educational and career goals while remaining in sync with his personal values.
Can you describe your background and how you grew up?
I grew up in Boro Park. My family is part of the Skver Chasidic community, and I was educated in their school system for elementary school. When it came time for high school, I attended a non-Chasidic institution and took NY State Regents exams. My parents are both college educated. My father is an accountant and my mother is a master's-level educator, so they were my role models.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue higher education and why?
As I was starting high school, I decided I wanted a professional career, and I knew I would one day attend college. I was thinking about long-term plans and realized that anything I wanted to do would require a college degree so I wanted to get a solid foundation in high school that would propel me to the next level.
What is your career goal? Why did you choose that path?
Originally, I was thinking of medical school, but now I’ve switched gears. I’d like to combine mental health and law enforcement. My goal is to work on a high level in the police department or at the FBI. I’m majoring in psychology and plan to go on to graduate school. During COVID, I was working in urgent care and EMS. I found I didn’t enjoy working in the doctor’s office as much as I loved being in the ambulance. There, I worked closely with law enforcement and found I really enjoyed it. I have always wondered about criminal psychology—why do people commit crimes? I also enjoy helping people and I think I can do that with training in both of these areas.
Why did you choose Touro School of Lifelong Education (SLE)?
I chose SLE because it is geared for students who want to be able to work and go to school at the same time. I have a demanding full-time job as manager of a large school where I’m responsible for facilities, food service and employee relations. I am thrilled to be able to pursue my education while holding down a job.
SLE also offers a high-quality education in an environment that is in sync with my values. Professors understand my background and needs and are respectful of religion.
How do you feel the School is helping you achieve your goals?
The professors are always there for the students and go the extra mile to ensure that we achieve success in our academic and professional goals. I also learned many life lessons—how to take exams, handle pressure and manage a high-level academic workload.
What advice do you have for others in the community who are ready to transition to academic and professional careers?
Gaining an education and being religious are not a contradiction. If you want to achieve a professional goal, it is possible to have a career and balance your religious commitments and Jewish life. Starting at the right place is key. If you’re motivated, it doesn’t matter where you’re starting from. Just set your goals and work step by step to achieve them. Aim high and you’ll find help along the way. At Touro SLE, the professors will help you go where you want to go, whether it’s social work, law school or a medical career. Anyone looking for a school that is structured to fit Jewish values, and still offers the best quality education money can buy, should choose Touro SLE!
