Hello, my name is Max Pollak and I am currently a freshman here at Towson University.  I am running for the position of FYSH chair for next year’s executive board of the Hillel.  One thing that separates me from the other Candidate(s) is that for my 4 years of high school I was one the executive board of my Temple’s Senior Youth Group.  While on that board, I held the position of Treasurer for 3 years, and President for the last. We as a board accomplished many things, such as participating in numerous Social Action events, visiting old age homes, educating other religions about Judaism, and in my opinion most important, we nearly tripled our size.

            I was also on the FYSH board this year, which I think has helped prepare me very well.  While on the board we planned many successful events, such as the upcoming trip to see RENT, and a great overnight experience at Campgrounds of America.  On top of this experience I have become very good friends with many members of the Hillel, including Jill, the current FYSH Chair, and have been able to sit back and watch how she conducts meetings and events. 

            I am running for FYSH Chair because it is really important to me that the freshman here at Towson have a strong foundation of Jewish friend that they can fall back on at any point throughout their Towson life, and beyond.  Having two younger siblings, I have always been around people younger then me, and I always seem to be able to relate extremely well to them.  I think I'm a very personable person who can bring a lot to the Hillel Board as well as the Hillel in general. 

            I am also hoping to be an Orientation Leader next year.  I think that job coincides extremely well with this FYSH position because I will be in constant contact with freshman and other first year students, which will help me, stay grounded and focused on this job and getting them involved within the Hillel as well.

            Some ideas for events that I would like to do next year if I am elected FYSH Chair are bi-weekly bowling nights, a movie night and another overnight.  These events are not only fun, but also they help people bond together, while incorporating some Jewish Learning, and more importantly forming a Jewish community, which is one of the most important values within our religion.  Thank you all very much.