Yechiel Weisstuch’s fourth summer on NCSY Kollel — and his second as a madrich — has been nothing short of epic. Hailing from Boca Raton, Florida, Yechiel is a proud graduate of Katz Yeshiva High School, spent two years learning in Yeshivat Shaalvim, and will be starting Yeshiva University this coming year.

This summer, Yechiel is leading the legendary Back Row Chaburah — a high-energy group that brings Torah, personality, and ruach straight to the heart of the Beis. Eli Lipman from West Orange, NJ, a student at Frisch, is a ball of energy who keeps things lively and engaging at all times. Donny Rosenrauch, also from West Orange and a Frisch student, pays close attention and consistently asks sharp, insightful questions that move the conversation forward. Yehuda Abrams from Chicago, IL, representing Fasman Yeshiva, brings good vibes and a steady presence that levels out the group and keeps the atmosphere balanced. Tuvi Bennett, from Cleveland, OH, and a Fuchs Mizrachi student, adds his great sense of humor and witty remarks, always bringing fun and flavor to the learning.

Together, they’re diving into sugyos that correspond to the brachos of Shemona Esrei — exploring topics like kavana in tefilla, kiddush Hashem, and bikkur cholim through both halachic and hashkafic lenses.

The Back Row Chaburah is off to a powerful start — and there’s no doubt they’re just getting warmed up.

Ezra Landa grew up in Bergenfield, New Jersey, and is fortunate to daven at Rabbi Neuburger’s shul there. He had the great privilege of attending Yeshiva University’s High School for Boys, also known as MTA. Ezra is currently between his third year in Sha’alvim and YU, where he will have the tremendous zechus of learning in Rav Twersky’s shiur. He has been remarkably fortunate to spend four summers on NCSY Kollel, with each year getting better and better.

This summer, Ezra is lucky to have a special Chaburah, with whom he sincerely appreciates both learning and spending time. First up is Abie Merzel, hailing from Yerushalayim, who is not only passionate about Beitar soccer, but also Torah, Eretz Yisrael, and many other things. Next is Hillel Gross, coming from the lovely town of Bergenfield, New Jersey, who quietly—but undoubtedly—understands and contributes a ton to the Chaburah every day. Then there’s Aryeh Leiber, a talmid of MAY, often seen as the father figure of the Chaburah (iykyk). We also have the privilege of learning with Netanel Greenstein, another MAY attendee who secretly wishes he lived in Alaska. Last, and perhaps even least, is Aharon Kramer from Beit Shemesh, Israel, whose love for the IDF and basketball doesn’t take away from his sincerity in growing over the summer.

The Chaburah is learning a variety of beautiful sugyas focused on exploring the beauty of מחלוקתים in ראשונים.

It has been an unbelievable summer so far, and there’s still so much more to look forward to!

MD Baum’s Chaburah is led by MD Baum, a dedicated and passionate madrich who brings steady energy and a fresh approach to the Beis. Hailing from Bergenfield, NJ, MD is known for his ability to connect with each guy in his Chaburah and create a space where learning is real, meaningful, and just the right amount of fun. His goal is to make every afternoon not just productive, but inspiring.

The Chaburah is made up of four incredible guys from across the map. Yis Epstein from Mesivta of Philadelphia brings a strong sense of focus and a deep appreciation for learning, always ready to ask the right question at the right time. Jake Lazerow, from TA in Baltimore, adds great energy and sharp insights that keep the discussion moving. Joe Mogul from MTA comes with solid learning skills and a calm presence that anchors the group. Finally, Sammy Sebag from DRS keeps everyone on their toes with his thoughtful comments and contagious enthusiasm. Together, they’ve built a real chevra where everyone contributes and everyone is able to grow.

This summer, the Chaburah is exploring the themes of Gadlus HaAdam — the greatness and potential built into every person — the connection between man and kedusha, and how Torah helps one better understand their role in the world.

With good Torahs, meaningful conversations, and a shared drive for growth, this Chaburah is making the most out of every day in Kollel — and they’re just getting started.

Nachi Schwartz is in his first year on Kollel, and it’s been an epic one. From Monsey, NY, Nachi is a graduate of Heichal HaTorah and spent the last three years learning in Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh. He’s loving Kollel’s balance of learning, trips, and sports, and brings that love straight into his chaburah.

This incredible group of guys makes up a multi-state chaburah with a lot of personality. Yechiel Berg, who goes to MTA, has a quiet confidence, always has something to add to group discussions, and will catch you off guard with a hilarious comment. That, along with his incredible smile, makes chaburahs a great time. Yosef hails from Pittsburgh, PA—a huge Pirates fan and sports enthusiast in general. The questions he brings to the table are second to none, creating an environment of growth for the guys. Elisha “Nike” Neikrug is our resident baseball player, pitcher for Fasman Yeshiva in Chicago, and Torah Bowl genius. When we need a fact checked, we go straight to Elisha. Yaakov, our hilarious friend, is always looking to get involved with the chevra. Yaakov comes from Chicago as well—he and Elisha always have a great story from their younger years that keeps everyone laughing. Yaakov’s constant push to grow is inspiring to watch. Wow—what a chaburah!

Nachi’s chaburah is focused on increasing Jewish knowledge, going through the masechtos of Shas one by one as well as the books of Tanach. Discussion questions, hot takes, and chazarah sections create an exciting spin on each detail—one that will last. The chaburah challenges the minds and creativity of the guys—an all-around amazing experience!

The energy’s been unreal so far, and there’s no doubt this chaburah is just getting started.

Avraham Gelman is back for his second summer on NCSY Kollel, and this summer has already shattered expectations. Avraham, from Chicago, went to “The Yeshiva” for high school and just finished his second year in Yeshivat Shaalvim. He’s heading to YU next year.

This summer, Avraham has been privileged to lead a chaburah of a wonderful group of guys who all bring unique strengths to the chaburah.

Akiva Stahl from Woodmere attends DRS and is always looking to push himself in different areas of growth, adding so much to the chaburah. Asher Calm, also from DRS and originally from “The Stead” (West Hempstead), constantly brings a chill, “calm” vibe to the chaburah. Ephraim Goldshmidt from Passaic, who goes to Heichal HaTorah, is always starting intriguing conversations and hilarious bits around the chaburah. All the way from Maryland, it’s Sam Baron—representing the Berman Hebrew Academy. Sam is always asking thoughtful questions and exploring his curiosity, which leads to fascinating conversations throughout the chaburah.

This summer, the chaburah is diving deep into the world of tefillah—not just how we daven, but why we daven. With topics like “Kavana in Tefillah,” “How Does Tefillah Work?” and “Chiyuv Tefillah B’tzibur,” the group is uncovering layers of meaning that make davening more personal, powerful, and purposeful.

This chaburah has had a fun and exciting start to the summer and is looking forward to an impactful rest of the season!

Nathan Ginsburg is pumped to be back for his fifth summer on NCSY Kollel, and his second as a madrich! From Potomac, Maryland, Nathan went to Winston Churchill High School before spending two amazing years at Yeshivat HaKotel. He just wrapped up his first year at Yeshiva University and couldn’t be more excited for the summer.

Nathan’s chaburah is made up of some of the most passionate and all-star guys from across America. Starting things off on the East Coast, there’s Robbie Seligman from Brookline, Massachusetts, who attended Brookline High School this past year and is heading to Yeshiva Ohr Yisroel for the coming year. Heading west, Menashe Kirsch joins from Berkeley, California, attending Berkeley High School. Down south, there’s Aaron Stross from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, attending the Haynes Academy.

This summer, Nathan’s chaburah will be focusing on understanding the deeper meaning behind the things we do as Jews and connecting to Hashem in a real way. They’ll be diving into epic topics like “ממלכת כהנים וגוי קדוש,” Modeh Ani, davening, tzitzis, tefillin, tzedaka, and a whole lot more. It’s all about finding the meaning behind the mitzvos and growing together while having an absolute blast.

Between the learning, laughs, and unforgettable moments, this summer is already one for the books!

Yehuda Teitelman’s third summer on NCSY Kollel has been absolutely electric. Coming off his first year at Yeshiva University and two years at Yeshivat Sha’alvim, Yehuda brings a passion for learning and leadership that shines through in every aspect of the chaburah.

His chaburah is made up of an exceptional group of guys who, despite coming from four different high schools, have formed a strong bond and uplifting sense of camaraderie since day one.

Yosef Brukner, a thoughtful and perceptive talmid from Heichal HaTorah, brings sharp insights and a genuine passion for learning that elevates every discussion. Bentzion Kryzman from TABC adds incredible depth with his probing questions and impressive analytical skills, always pushing the group to think more deeply. Yakir Hirsch of Yeshiva of Greater Washington stands out for his strong learning abilities, sincere curiosity, and consistent drive to grow. Eliyahu Schrier, who attends DRS, brings contagious energy and an impressive command of Torah knowledge, creating a learning atmosphere that’s both fun and meaningful.

This summer, the chaburah is delving into the mitzvah of Talmud Torah, exploring it through both halachic and hashkafic lenses. So far, they’ve covered topics such as the prohibition of forgetting Torah, the mitzvah of teaching Torah, Torah’s unique role in shaping Jewish identity, and much more. The conversations have been rich, thought-provoking, and filled with genuine enthusiasm—and there’s still plenty more ahead.

With such a dynamic group and deep, meaningful learning, this summer is already shaping up to be something truly special.

After seeing Yoni’s chaburah and its greatness pictured below, it’s clear that everyone is eager to get to know Yoni’s chaburah. So, without further ado, presenting one of the most riveting and thrilling chaburahs in the world: Yoni Zelkowitz’s chaburah!

Yoni, hailing from Bergenfield, NJ, had the privilege of attending TABC for four marvelous years, where he studied under the tutelage of five different TABC principals. Following the “system,” Yoni attended Yeshivat Shaalvim for two unbelievable and transformative years. Last year, Yoni had the privilege of learning under Rav Michael Rosensweig, Shlita, in Yeshiva University, where he developed a love for Rav Rosensweig’s Torah, which he wishes to pass on to the chaburah. Yoni hopes to continue learning under Rav Rosensweig for many years to come, IY”H. This is Yoni’s third year on NCSY Kollel, and this summer has been absolutely electric – largely thanks to the incredible chevra in his chaburah. But enough about Yoni… let’s meet the guys who are the true stars of the show!

Yoni’s chaburah is filled with diverse, funny, and energetic guys, which creates the perfect recipe for a chaburah environment. First up is Noam Bieler from Teaneck, NJ (TABC). Noam brings a wide array of knowledge and witty remarks that consistently elevate the discussion. The chaburah also took great pride when Noam was chosen to represent the entire camp and interview Rachel Goldberg-Polin — an unforgettable moment! Next, we have Avi Ambinder, from Baltimore, Maryland (TA). Avi always brings the energy and channels his yichus to R’ Yosef Karo to help the chaburah figure out the psak at the end of the day. Then we’ve got Akiva Horn, also from Teaneck, NJ (TABC). Akiva’s sharp mind blends Torah wisdom with real-world awareness, leading to some of the most thoughtful and insightful contributions in the chaburah. Last but certainly not least is Charlie Turner from Baltimore, Maryland (TA). Charlie’s kind demeanor and sincere drive for growth inspire everyone around him. His questions are always on point and add depth to every sugya we tackle. (Bonus content: The chaburah is also privileged to have Jordy Sheinfeld from Teaneck, NJ, join in often. Jordy spends many of his days off learning with the chaburah and plays a major role in keeping the discussion lively and meaningful. We’re lucky to have him!)

This summer, Yoni’s chaburah is diving into the halachos and hashkafos surrounding the food we eat — and the reasons we don’t eat certain foods. Often it’s the simplest, most everyday actions that get overlooked, and this chaburah is bringing new meaning and awareness to those moments. Specifically, Yoni’s chaburah is focusing on questions such as what אכילת גסה is, why we have Simanei Kashrus, whether it is halachically allowed to go on a diet, and whether pigs will be kosher in the times of משיח.

Yoni’s chaburah is having an unbelievably geshmak summer and can’t wait for the rest of what’s in store!

Hailing from (the “other side” of) Teaneck, NJ, in his second summer (first as a madrich), Eli Staum is thriving in the incredible atmosphere of NCSY Kollel. Eli attended MTA for four years, followed by two and a half years in Yeshivat Shaalvim, and since then has finished his first semester at Yeshiva University.

Eli’s chaburah this summer is a dynamic and diverse lineup of teens from the East Coast, each contributing their own unique spark to the vibrant atmosphere of NCSY Kollel. Leading off is Ari Hecht from West Hempstead, NY (DRS), who is always a step ahead with the answers before questions are even asked. Batting second is Yechiel Singer from Cedarhurst, NY (Yesodei), whose sharp questions keep everyone in the chaburah on their toes. In the 3 spot is Noam Cattan from Silver Spring, MD (YGW), who loves sharing with the chaburah all his favorite Sefardi Shabbos foods. And batting cleanup, we have Avi Wasserman from Atlanta, Georgia (AJA), whose out-of-the-box thinking brings creativity and depth to every chaburah discussion.

This summer, Eli’s chaburah will be focusing on the עשהs of Shabbos, such as Tosefes Shabbos, Toi’ameha, why we cover the challah, and much more, in an effort to gain a deeper understanding of the “do’s” of Shabbos—hopefully leading to a greater appreciation of the extremely special day that Shabbos is.

The chaburah has been amazing so far, and the energy only continues to grow as the summer goes on.

It’s Akiva Besser’s first year on Kollel, but it’s been nothing short of unforgettable, and his chaburah is the biggest reason why. Hailing from Clifton, NJ, Akiva spent high school at Heichal and then learned in Shaalvim for three years.

Akiva’s chaburah has been absolutely rocking it all summer long, and the momentum just keeps building. Though the guys come from all over, from Canada to Chicago, there’s a real camaraderie and energy that’s felt every time they sit down to learn.

There’s Noam Russel from Chicago, who attends Fasman Yeshiva High School, whose calm, levelheaded presence adds thoughtful depth to every conversation. Jack Notik from the Five Towns, who learns at DRS, brings a bubbling energy that lifts everyone around him. Avi Gottlieb from Teaneck, NJ, a proud Heichal rep ????, is sharp, insightful, and always has a creative svara up his sleeve. And Daniel Levy from Montreal, who attends Hebrew Academy, inspires the group with his motivation and remarkable consistency.

This summer, the chaburah is learning the Berachos of Shemoneh Esrei through the lens of the Gemara in Megillah, using each Beracha as a springboard to dive into some of the most relevant and meaningful topics of our time, from Tefillah and Limud Torah to Teshuva and beyond.

It’s been an amazing ride so far, and it’s only getting better.