I remember my first MIT. I joined my chapter in June 2020, and was inducted a few months later. My induction was on Zoom, but the feelings and excitement were just as present as I stood up in front of my computer, and shouted “I am a B’nai B’rith Girl!”. It was a moment where I felt officially connected to the amazing organization of which we are all a part of.

My chapter, D’vash BBG, threw an amazing MIT this term. We also included Bigs and Littles in the same event, and the theme was Barbie. The room was decorated with pink balloons, streamers, and wrapping paper to surprise the Littles. I was assigned a Little, and enjoyed creating a playlist for her, writing three hints about myself, and buying her a small gift including her favorite candy and a note from me. As an underclassmen, I remember how excited I was to get to know my chapter’s upperclassmen, and to form friendships between us. As a Big, I now understand the full impact I can have on my Little forever! 

After the Bigs and Littles bonded by making friendship bracelets, tying hair tinsel in each other's hair, and eating candy, we started our MIT. 

My chapter N’siah and Morah led a beautiful induction ceremony. As each BBG was called up, they repeated after the Morah, “I shall never give up, I shall learn from my experiences, and I shall continue the legacy of Anita Perlman…”. Recognizing the legacy of Anita M. Perlman and instilling the strength of BBG in new members is something I see as an integral part of my chapter, and of the international order. Not only are the words important within BBYO, but they are definitive and applicable to so many other factors of our lives. We repeat phrases and affirmations at MIT about trying new things, dedicating ourselves to new and diverse experiences, and serving our communities. These concepts are connected to our Jewish values, and living with virtue and good morals. 

Watching my N’siah and Morah lead the chapter beautifully and carry on the legacy of BBG through the words each girl repeated made me feel so grateful to be a part of BBG. 

As BBGs, we have so much to learn from traditions and experiences passed down in our chapters. The impact of a short moment can be long-lasting in one’s life. 

I urge each one of you to listen closely to the words said in inductions, and understand the values we should all truly emulate as BBGs.