Judith Epstein

Favorite subject at CRLS
Brain and Behavior

Why is it your favorite subject?
I was already super interested in cognitive science going into the class, so it was wonderful to be in a class where I could finally answer the questions that I had had for years. On top of that, Ms. Augustine is an amazing teacher! She truly engages with the students, in addition to trusting students to be capable of taking charge of their lives. Although most of the class is lecture-style, it really does not feel like it is. Everything we learned was fascinating to me and I was always so excited for that class (even though it was first period).

Favorite CRLS Staff Person
Ms. Nathan

What makes that staff person so special?
Ms. Nathan is the best guidance counselor anyone could ask for. She is extremely good at helping you figure out schedules for the next year, figuring out what is important to you in the college search, or just supporting you through a tough time. More importantly, she is incredibly kind and it is totally clear that she truly cares about the students, not just as students, but as their full, human selves.

Extracurricular activities, clubs, school-related activities
Jewish Heritage Club, Improv Club, A cappella, Off-Broadway Theater Society, Youth Equity Summit

What were some of the out-of-school time (O.S.T) programs that you participated in anytime between grades 6-12?
Circus Smirkus Camp, Esh Circus Arts, Teen Beit Midrash

How did being enrolled in any O.S.T. program(s) contribute to your success both in and out of high school? 
In general, I think having a strong community outside of CRLS is wonderful and extremely helpful. It is great to have close friends outside of the school community. Each of my outside of school extracurriculars helped me find a new, different kind of community in its own way. Those other communities helped broaden my knowledge, interests, and world view.

What did you like most about CRLS? Why?
I absolutely love the wide variety of classes that are available! The combination of the block schedule and the varied course options meant that I got to explore so many different subjects. From music video production, to neuroscience, to documentary making, to TAing, to my more traditional classes, I was truly able to tailor my class schedule to myself and my own interests.

What is something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about the school? Why?
The core of CRLS is truly the student body. So many amazing projects and community-changing events come from the minds of students. We, as students, have the ability to take control of much of our experience and make a lot of change within the school, if we choose to do so.

What advice would you give incoming freshmen about CRLS?
Look for the classes that genuinely interest you and take them. The CRLS course catalog is amazing: there are so many different opportunities to explore new interests as well as to dive deeper into interests that you already have. Take advantage of that! If there is a class that you really want to take, don't let other people's ideas of what the "right" path is stop you. That's not to say not to push yourself. Challenge yourself! But challenge yourself while staying true to who you are and to your interests.

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