Exploring Jewish Student Population At Temple University

Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a long history of attracting Jewish students. Founded in 1884 by the Baptist minister Russell Conwell, the university was originally established to train Baptist ministers. However, Conwell quickly broadened his vision to include diverse types of education for a range of people. As a result, Temple College of Philadelphia was officially chartered in 1888 and became a university in 1907. This timing coincided with the growth of Philadelphia's Jewish community, and Temple University became a popular choice for Jewish students, particularly as the University of Pennsylvania had de facto policies limiting the number of Jewish students.

Today, Temple University offers a range of courses that may be of particular interest to Jewish students, including a course on 'Race & Identity in Judaism', which investigates the relationship between race and Judaism throughout history. The university also has a Feinstein Center for American Jewish History, which was established in 1990 and offers internship programs for students to work in Philadelphia's Jewish community.

However, in recent years, there have been reports of antisemitism at Temple University, including a physical attack on a Jewish student in 2014, and a viral Snapchat video posted by a student government representative in 2021, which showed them raising their middle finger at the Israeli flag.

Temple University's Jewish History Courses

Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers a wide range of courses on Jewish history, culture, and contemporary issues. The university has a long-standing connection with the Jewish community, dating back to its establishment in 1884 by the Baptist minister Russell Conwell. The university became a magnet for Philadelphia's growing Jewish community, offering educational opportunities without the barriers faced at other institutions.

The Department of Religion at Temple University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Jewish Studies, an interdisciplinary field that examines the history, culture, beliefs, customs, practices, texts, and languages of the Jewish people. The program is not accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year.

• Race & Identity in Judaism (JST 0802): This course investigates the relationship between race and Judaism from its early period to the present, exploring how Jews and others have understood Jewish racial identity. It examines the complex connections between racism and anti-Semitism through primary and secondary texts in Jewish philosophy, history, and the study of race.
• World Society in Literature & Film (JST 0868): Learn about Israeli culture and society through its literature and film. This course provides insights into family structures, national self-perceptions, pivotal historical moments, economic issues, and social change.
• Jewish Diaspora/Survey of Jewish History (JST 2706): This course offers a comprehensive survey of Jewish history, from the destruction of the Second Jewish Commonwealth to the creation of the State of Israel. It covers topics such as minority status, migration, persecution, economic adaptation, gender roles, acculturation, and identity.
• Jewish Experience in America (JST 3221): Focusing on the evolution of the Jewish community in the United States, this course covers immigrant experiences, the development of religious movements within Judaism, the role of Jews in American life and politics, American anti-Semitism, Black-Jewish relations, and assimilation and identity.
• Ancient Judaism (JST 4406): This course examines the processes and stages involved in the formation of the Torah/Pentateuch and the Talmud, exploring the historical, social, and intellectual forces that shaped these foundational texts of Judaism.

In addition to these courses, Temple University also has the Feinstein Center for American Jewish History, which inspires inquiry into American Jewish life and offers various resources and programs for students interested in this field.

The university's connection with the Jewish community extends beyond the classroom, with Jewish students comprising a significant part of its diverse student body.

Jewish Students' Experiences at Temple University

Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1884 by the Baptist minister Russell Conwell and his congregation at the Grace Baptist Church. Over the years, it has grown to become the second-largest university in Pennsylvania by enrollment, with a diverse student body that includes a significant Jewish population.

Historically, Temple University has been a favourite among Philadelphia's Jewish community. The university's roots in providing diverse education to a range of groups made it a natural magnet for Jewish immigrants from Europe who settled in the city and raised families. This preference for Temple over other universities in the area, such as the University of Pennsylvania, was due to the perceived limitations placed on the number of Jewish students admitted to those institutions.

Temple University's commitment to inclusivity and cultural diversity has been a significant factor in its appeal to Jewish students. The university's Jewish community offers a range of organisations and groups that cater to students of Jewish faith, providing them with a sense of belonging and acceptance. One such organisation is Hillel, which hosts events for incoming Jewish freshmen to help them explore the city and make new friends. Other groups include Chabad and Meor, which offer Shabbat dinners and religious programs like the Maimonides fellowship.

The Jewish Studies program at Temple University is an interdisciplinary field that allows students to explore Jewish history, culture, beliefs, customs, practices, texts, and languages. The program covers both ancient and contemporary issues, with a particular focus on Jewish culture, identity, and practices in the modern world. Students can also take advantage of the variety of Jewish-focused courses offered by the university, such as "Race and Identity in Judaism," "World Society in Literature and Film," and "Introduction to Judaism."

However, it is important to note that there have been recent concerns raised about the university's handling of antisemitism on campus. In 2014, a Jewish student was physically attacked during a verbal exchange at a student organisation's information table. More recently, a faculty member caused controversy with their use of a phrase that has been interpreted as advocating for the extermination of Jews in Israel. These incidents have led to discussions about the university's approach to diversity management and the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and respect of all students, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.

Despite these challenges, Temple University continues to be a place where Jewish students can find community and acceptance. The university's Jewish community remains an integral part of the university's diverse fabric, and many Jewish students continue to call Temple their second home.

Temple University's Jewish Student Population

Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a long history of welcoming Jewish students. Founded in 1884 by the Baptist minister Russell Conwell, the university became a magnet for Philadelphia's growing Jewish community, standing in contrast to the University of Pennsylvania, which had de facto policies limiting the number of Jewish students.

Temple University offers a wide range of courses and programs that cater to Jewish students and those interested in Jewish studies. The Feinstein Center for American Jewish History, housed within the College of Liberal Arts, offers various courses on topics such as race and identity in Judaism, Jewish secular thought and culture, and the Jewish diaspora. The university also provides internship opportunities for students to engage with Philadelphia's vibrant Jewish community.

However, in recent years, there have been reports of antisemitism on campus. In 2021, a Jewish student at Temple University shared their experience of encountering antisemitic incidents and rhetoric during their time at the university. They recounted instances of professors and student groups expressing anti-Israel sentiments and promoting stereotypes about Jewish financial control. These incidents sparked concerns within the Jewish community and led to discussions about the university's handling of antisemitism.

Despite these recent challenges, Temple University continues to be a significant educational institution for Jewish students, offering a diverse range of academic opportunities and a chance to engage with Jewish history and culture. The exact number of Jewish students at Temple University is not publicly available, but the university's commitment to Jewish studies and its historical connection to the Jewish community suggest a substantial Jewish student population.

Jewish Life at Temple University

Temple University, a public state-related research university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1884 by the Baptist minister Russell Conwell. The university has a diverse student population, including a significant Jewish community that has played an essential role in the university's development over the years.

History

Temple University was established by the Grace Baptist Church of Philadelphia, which provided classrooms, teachers, and financing for the school in its early years. From the beginning, Temple University embraced diversity and inclusiveness, attracting students from various cultural and religious backgrounds, including Jewish students. The university became a magnet for Philadelphia's growing Jewish community, particularly as many Jewish immigrants from Europe settled in the city and raised families.

Jewish Organisations

Temple University is home to several Jewish organisations that unite and support Jewish students on campus. One notable organisation is Hillel, which offers social events, gatherings, and trips to help Jewish students connect and build a sense of community. Through Hillel, incoming Jewish freshmen can meet fellow students and explore the city together. Hillel provides a space for Jewish students to bond, relax, and be themselves away from the demands of academic life.

Other Jewish organisations present at Temple University include Chabad and Meor. These organisations often host Shabbat every Friday evening, allowing Jewish students to come together and observe this important day of rest in the Jewish religion. Shabbat begins with Friday night services at sunset, followed by a big family-style dinner, and ends on Saturday at sunset with another set of services and dinner.

Academic Opportunities

Temple University also offers academic opportunities for Jewish students to explore their heritage and gain a deeper understanding of Jewish history and culture. The university's Feinstein Center for American Jewish History, established in 1990, inspires inquiry into American Jewish life. The centre offers various programs, such as the Jewish Professional Internship Program, which allows students to gain course credits while working with arts and culture organisations, social justice start-ups, and educational institutions.

Alumni Perspective

Alumni of Temple University have shared their experiences of the Jewish community on campus, highlighting how it made them feel accepted and provided a sense of belonging. The Jewish community at Temple University stands out as a welcoming and supportive network, fostering friendships and a sense of family among its members.

In conclusion, Jewish life at Temple University is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of social, cultural, and academic opportunities for Jewish students to engage with their heritage and connect with one another. The university's Jewish community is an integral part of the Temple University experience, contributing to its rich history and diverse student population.

Temple University's Jewish Studies Courses

Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1884 by the Baptist minister Russell Conwell. It is the second-largest university in Pennsylvania by enrolment, with about 30,005 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. The university consists of 17 schools and colleges, offering over 640 academic programs and 160 undergraduate majors.

Temple University's Jewish Studies BA is offered by the Department of Religion. The program is interdisciplinary, allowing students to sample courses across the liberal arts curriculum. The history, culture, beliefs, customs, practices, texts and languages of the Jewish people are central to the course. It addresses the legacy of over 2,000 years of Jewish life as it has been lived in Jewish communities across the globe. The university pays particular attention to contemporary issues of Jewish culture, identity and practice.

The Jewish Studies BA is not accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year. The program requirements include a minimum of 123 credits, with 90 credits in CLA/CST courses and 45 credits at the upper level. Students must also complete a foreign language requirement and general elective courses.

The following Jewish Studies courses are available at Temple University:

• Race & Identity in Judaism
• World Society in Literature & Film
• Honors Race & Identity in Judaism
• Special Topics in Jewish Studies
• Jewish Voices in Russian Culture
• Introduction to Judaism
• Introduction to Afro-Jewish Studies
• Jewish Secular Thought and Culture from Spinoza to Seinfeld: A History of Jewish Secularism
• Secular Jewish Utopian Politics / Jewtopias: The Jewish Romance with Communism, Zionism, and America
• Kabbalah and Mysticism
• Anti-Semitism/Holocaust/Racism
• Jewish Diaspora/Survey of Jewish History
• Love Themes in Hebrew Literature
• Honors Special Topics
• Topics in Jewish Studies
• Independent Jewish Studies
• Jewish Studies Internship
• Independent Study
• Jewish Experience in America
• Topics: Jews & Film
• Women in Judaism
• Israel in the Middle East
• The Philosophies of Judaism
• Israel, History, Politics and Society
• Israelis and Palestinians
• Topics in Hebrew Culture
• Honors Special Topics
• Independent Study in Jewish Studies

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