Sarah Griffith

Hi! I was born a Christian in Oklahoma, but moved to New York when I was 9. After my dad remarried, we attended a Conservative Jewish Synagogue, a big change from our Messianic Synagogue in OK. I've learned a lot from the changes in my life, and can't wait to see what adventures lie ahead!

In my junior year, a FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics Team was started at my school. In January, I became co-captain. When the original teacher left at the end of the year, we were left to run the team with minimal supervision. I love what I do on the team, and can't wait to see what this year brings!

I love challenging myself physically. Working without a gym membership and with minimal equipment, I use the Internet and my own motivation to challenge myself and keep fit. Among other things, I have done some boxing, running, and lifting. I have also played on my school's Ultimate Frisbee Team.

As the oldest of four children, my parents often rely on me to help out around the house. I spend lots of time each week with my 6-year-old brother, who has Asperger's Syndrome. He never fails to make me smile with his nicknames for me and the games he plays!

I have a passion for building things. I have spent many hours in my school's maker-space, making gifts for people, or just because I wanted to build something. I also use combinations of paper, cardboard, and other materials to make things I design myself or pictures of things I see somewhere.

During my freshman year, I took on the role of co-editor of my school's literary magazine. Using a computer software known as InDesign, I edited writing pieces sent to us and put them together in a coherent, visually appealing publication. This year, new students will take my place as editor.

I worked as a camp counselor at two different camps. In 2015, I worked at Lifting Up Westchester, a camp for homeless youth. In 2016, I worked at Ramah Day Camp in Nyack, a Jewish camp. All of these pictures are from Ramah because phones were not permitted in my other camp.

From a young age, I've really liked music and learning to play music. I've experimented with piano, guitar, and harmonica. I have played the flute since I learned in band in fourth grade.

In Nefesh, I work with a co-leader to plan lessons and group activities centered around Jewish prayers and values. In our lessons, we try to make prayers more visibly relatable to our everyday lives by engaging with the prayers on an interactive level.