Ari Geller, Grade 12
I chose the Academy because…
The Academy is an Orthodox religious school and is very Zionistic. Those are the two aspects of the school that attracted me the most. The teachers instill the ideals of Zionism and Orthodoxy in their everyday teaching.
My favorite course has been…
U.S. History. Each day I learned about historical events and people that shaped the foundation of our country. I enjoy learning about our history when I am able to connect to it.
My favorite extracurricular activity has been…
playing basketball. I was able to form friendships with other girls in other grades. We are not just a team, but we are friends as well. I am sure that we will keep in touch once we leave the Academy.
The learning environment at ICJA is…
warm and encouraging. The teachers are there to help in any way that they can. The want their students to succeed.
A teacher who has been the most influential is…
Mrs. Hubscher. Even though she only taught for a year, she had a great impact on all of her students.
The social atmosphere at the Academy is…
friendly. All the grades enjoy the company of the others. We do not just hang out with our own grades. Everyone spreads out. The juniors talk to other juniors, but there is always room for a freshman to get a word in.
When I have free time, I like to…
work for Bnei Akiva of Chicago. I also enjoy playing basketball and hanging out with my friends.
Advice I would give to a prospective student is…
there are going to be hard times, but in the end, it is worth it. You should never give up because the Academy is a great place!
