Unlike most, I joined BBYO at the beginning of my freshman year. Within no time, I felt a strong bond with my fellow BBGS. As the end of the term came, some upperclassmen started encouraging me to run for the chapter board—specifically the position of Mazkirah. I was hesitant at first, but I realized it was perfect for me, considering how much I love being creative. I was overwhelmed with how much guidance I was given and how many people believed I could do it. As nervous as I was, I ran unopposed and became my chapter Mazkirah. I loved every minute of it. I’ll admit, there are so many things I could have done better. Despite the challenges, I feel I did a great job as Mazkirah. 

When elections were just around the corner, there was no doubt in my mind about rerunning for Mazkirah. I felt as prepared as possible. My platforms and speech were as best as they could be, I was confident despite running opposed, and I was excited to improve and work even harder. 

I lost. I was devastated. All I wanted to do was be on board again. So I slid to Orechet. There were 4 of us all running for the same position, whether we were nominated, if we originally declared, or if we slid. I lost again. So many thoughts were going through my mind. I even considered becoming inactive for half a second. Once I got home, I cried all day. I felt like everything I worked for was for nothing. 

The former N’siah of my chapter called me that night and said that I need to stay active because I have so much potential. This small gesture cheered me up so much that I realized quitting or switching chapters was out of the question. 

I spent my summer working at the day camp I've been going to for most of my life. With all the time to reflect, I realized that this setback will just help me work even harder in the future. The current Mazkirah started and continues to do amazing! I have learned so many things in the short amount of time I have not been on board. At events, I feel more appreciative of all the things the board does to prepare for the event. As much as I loved being on board, I also loved just being a member and getting to go to events without the pressure of planning them. 

BBYO has shaped me into who I am today and has helped me strengthen my Jewish identity. By losing elections, my love for BBYO and Shemesh BBG has grown even more. So, to anyone who is thinking about quitting because they just lost elections, just know you are still so important to your chapter. If you want to rerun next term, you will just be even more qualified. So if you lose elections on a chapter level, don’t quit, and don’t switch chapters because you’ll forever regret losing your BBYO family.