ARIANA KALKSTEIN A senior at Cherry Hill High School East, Ariana Kalkstein's bubbly and outgoing personality is one that's hard to miss. Every moment of her day is spent educating herself or someone else, staying physically active or volunteering her time.

Being engaged and actively involved in the Jewish community makes her feel like she is part of a family.

"I can always find a connection to other Jews—even if it's a complete stranger," says Ariana, who moved to the area when she was adopted from Carei, Romania.

Ariana completed her elementary and middle school education at Politz Day School in Cherry Hill, where she became fluent in Hebrew. She enrolled at East for high school, but thirsted to reconnect with her Judaic studies. She enrolled at Midrashah, the Hebrew Junior College run by Jewish Federation's Department of Jewish Education, where she has been studying for three years.

"I always felt that my Jewish roots were very strong, and every year, they grow more and more deep," said Ariana.

Thanks to her education at Midrashah, Ariana now teaches third graders at Cong. Beth El's religious school. Ariana's Jewish connections extend beyond the classroom to her social involvements. She is also an active member of NCSY, a national organization that is dedicated to connect, inspire and empower Jewish teens and encourage Judaism through Torah. In her free time, Ariana is committed to playing the piano. She has shared her love of music with the seniors who participate in the Katz JCC's senior congregate meals program. She says it makes her feel good to be able to bring joy to someone else's day.

The JCC is like a second home for Ariana. She attended the JCC pre-school and the JCC Camps at Medford. Ariana says her childhood experiences were so incredible that she has remained connected to the JCC Camps, where she has worked as a senior counselor in the Gesher Division. She is also a lifeguard at the JCC and also teaches swimming lessons.

"I have worked at the JCC camps from the day I was too old to attend,"she said. That just goes to show how much I loved it at five years old. I can let go and dance or sing for the kids. It's a great environment and pure enjoyment."

Now in her senior year of high school, Ariana has applied to 17 colleges with Rutgers her top choice. She intends to pursue a degree in forensic psychology and criminology. Although her schedule may seem a little overwhelming for some, she believes that it is important to do the best for oneself and stay involved.

"I do so much and never ask for anything in return. I love learning and want my students to have that same feeling. When I teach them something new I bring it to life and when I see the excitement on their faces it makes me feel amazing! I love what I do and I do what I can," says Ariana. .