Jewish Gamecock of the Month - February 2026
YARDEN SAGY

Major: Mechanical Engineering | Minor: Naval Science & Nuclear Engineering. - Class of ‘26
“My time at Chabad at USC has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. It’s given me a space to connect more deeply with my Jewish identity while building genuine friendships with an incredible community. Either high holidays and Shabbat dinners or just stopping by to hang out and talk, Chabad has always felt warm, welcoming, and like a home away from home. I’m really grateful for the sense of belonging and support I’ve found there. ”
- Yarden Sagy
Jewish Gamecock of the Month - January 2026
MAYA SILVERMAN

BARSC Product Design and Entrepreneurship - Class of ‘28
“Being from out of state, I love Chabad because it always feels like my home away from home. Being so far away from my family is hard, however I’m very fortunate to have found a second family at Chabad. From weekly shabbat dinners to challah bakes, and everything in between, I'm so happy to have found a place that I can truly be myself.”
- Maya S.
Jewish Gamecock of the Month - December 2026
MAX KAPLAN

Finance & Real Estate - Class of ‘26
“Chabad has played a huge role in my college experience by providing a welcoming space to connect with my Jewish identity and community. From Shabbat dinners to holidays and everyday conversations, Chabad creates an environment that feels like home on campus. I’m incredibly grateful for the relationships, support, and sense of belonging it has given me throughout college.”
- Max Kaplan
Jewish Gamecock of the Month - November 2025
JOY ISRAEL

Computer Science - Class of ‘29
What are you studying at USC?
Majoring in nursing
What do you love most about Chabad?
I love how Chabad at UofSC makes it its mission to make sure all jewish students on campus feel welcome and cared for while away from home.
What makes you feel connected to your Jewish identity?
Growing up in an Israeli household and having the privilege to be able to speak Hebrew has definitely had an impact and makes me feel even more connected to my Jewish identity.
What brought you to USC?
The reason I came to UofSC is because it’s ranked the #1 nursing school in the state of South Carolina and my brother is currently a senior and has thoroughly enjoyed his past 3 years here as a Gamecock!
Your favorite Jewish tradition or holiday:
My favorite Jewish tradition is lighting shabbat candles.
A favorite moment or memory from Chabad:
My favorite memory from Chabad was the challah bake which is where I met and really had a chance to meet and talk to new people!
A message you’d like to share with everyone reading?
Chabad has had such a huge impact on me, even just as a freshman. It’s become a true safe place for Jewish students on campus, and from the moment I walked in, I felt genuinely welcomed and supported. Whether it’s Shabbat dinners, holiday events, or just stopping by to hang out, Chabad has helped me feel connected, grounded, and proud of my Jewish identity.
Jewish Gamecock of the Month - October 2025
LEEONI ISRAEL

Computer Science - Class of ‘26
Chabad is where I found family in college. It’s the place I go when I need warmth, laughter, or a reminder of what matters most. It’s made my Jewish life feel not just important, but alive.