Madison Mimoun, 2026, Psychology

What inspired you to pursue the Jewish Studies program at LMU?

I pursued it because I grew up in a Jewish family and I wanted to learn more about my culture and religion.

What was your favorite Jewish Studies class, event, or experience and why? 

My favorite experience was being able to have dinner with Mr. Morgenthau before he spoke at the annual Kristallnacht Commemoration in 2023. It was so cool and inspiring!

How has Jewish Studies impacted your academic, personal, or professional growth?

Jewish Studies has impacted my everyday life. Every class I took taught me things I would have never noticed in society had I not been part of the program. Antisemitism is so normalized in society and on social media and people don't even realize it. Without this program, I would never have been able to see that. I'm so thankful for the experience and education that it has brought me.

Is there a professor, mentor, or experience within the program that stood out to you?

Dr. Feinstein is one of the best professors I have ever had. She is so passionate, and you can tell how much care she has for not only the topics she's teaching, but also for her students. Every semester I tried to be in one of her classes. Dr. Feinstein and her classes are a huge reason for my passion for the Jewish Studies program. She is truly an inspiring teacher and person.

What advice would you give students considering Jewish Studies at LMU?

Some advice I would give is to take as many Jewish Studies classes as you can. I think that sometimes it can be intimidating to learn new things and take the path less traveled, but it is so worth it to have such an amazing community of teachers, students, and faculty who are just as passionate about something as you are.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan on taking a gap year [and] then going on to get my master's in psychology, eventually becoming a therapist.