With the start of the 2022-23 school year upon us, we are highlighting members of the incoming class of students. Click here to see all of the articles in this series.
Today we’re talking with incoming Rabbinic student Dr. Phil Pizzo.
Q1) Where do you live?
I currently live in Stanford, CA and have been here since 2001. Prior to that I lived in Boston.
Q2) How did you first hear of AJRCA?
I learned about AJRCA from my former Senior Rabbi, Janet Marder who led me through my conversion to Judaism – a life transforming experience.
Q3) What was it about AJRCA that drew you to enroll here?
I was attracted to AJRCA because of its values and non-denominational pedagogy, rigorous curriculum, and opportunities to learn from excellent faculty and students in a setting that offers flexibility and the ability to participate in a hybrid manner.
Q4) What were you doing prior to enrolling?
I have had the privilege of being “called” to multiple careers as a physician, scientist, and academic leader, all focused on seeking to help children and individuals in need and to make the world a better place through discovery and innovation.
Q5) As you embark on this experience, what are you most excited about?
I am deeply honored and excited about the opportunity to renew my life purpose in a manner that I hope will provide complementarity to my prior life in healing the body to one that addresses healing the spirit, that allows a better understanding of the nexus between science and religion, and that provides an opportunity to explore the existential questions that have been at the core of my life.
Welcome Phil!
Thank you, Phil, for bringing your beautiful neshama to AJRCA. We are honored to welcome you as a student, bringing all the gifts your life experience has provided you.