Growing up in a town with a smaller Jewish population shaped my knowledge of Judaism in a unique way that most Jewish people do not experience. There are only a few handful of Jewish teens from Columbia, South Carolina, and only one other Aleph from my chapter who attended CLTC with me. Growing up with mostly non-Jewish peers made me feel different and isolated as part of a small minority. Attending CLTC and other BBYO events changed my perspective and gave me an environment where I can connect with others with similar backgrounds.

Being with other Jewish teens grew my connection and understanding of Judaism and it also helped me learn more about my cultural identity. When I first arrived at the airport, I was tired from the flight and upset at the slow internet service. When I saw the amount of Jewish kids at the camp, I was shocked at how kids from all over the world signed up for this summer program in Pennsylvania. There were kids from the Netherlands, Canada, Germany, Israel, England, and even South Africa. It was eye-opening to see how BBYO brings Jewish teens together from all over the world.

At camp, I realized how CLTC was important not just from the activities, but also the sense of community with other Jewish teens. I was in an environment where Judaism was something that made me feel connected to everyone rather than something that made me stand out.

CLTC also gave me a stronger sense of belonging. Meeting Jewish teens from around the world made me see that despite our different cultures and backgrounds, we share a common faith that connects all of us. This has helped me become more confident in my identity as a Jew and inspired me to be a leader in my AZA chapter and my Jewish community after the session ends.