“I was just living in London on my own, and it was very hard obviously, and I was feeling this need for a spiritual connection,” she explains. “So I started reading about Judaism again, which I had been interested in back in high school. I realized I needed some kind of community that no matter what I could have and hold on to.” 

After taking some time to process her feelings and talking to a few rabbis, Asella made the decision to convert. “I was like, wow, this is exactly what I’ve been looking for… our theology, our laws, our practices, our traditions — it all felt right for me.” 

Finding her Place in the Professional World 

Asella currently works as the communications and programming coordinator at Beth Am Synagogue, where she, amongst many other things, supports Rabbi Tyler Dratch on young adult initiatives such as monthly Shabbat dinners. She also attends communities of practice meetings and works with other professionals from various organizations on young adult programming. Through these meetings, she learned about YAD and the opportunity to be an ambassador for Camp Nai. Having already attended the camp last year, Asella jumped at the chance to encourage others to go too for the 2024 season. 

But, as a Jewish convert, she longed for the experience of attending Jewish summer camp — one she never had as a child.  

“When I was working through my conversion, one thing I was excited for was being able to go to adult summer camp,” she explains. “To me, I felt like I had to wait until I was finished converting to attend. I think the first thing I did when it was completed was book camp!” 

Since she was new to Baltimore, Asella loved having the opportunity to meet new people and form lifelong friendships with those who shared the same values, beliefs and traditions. 

Sharing the Joy with Others  

As a camp ambassador this year, Asella’s main role is showing other young adults just how fun camp life can be. She shares details of her own experience and tries to answer questions that arise from potential campers. She’s also working with other YAD members to plan a “meet your bunk” event which serves as a pre-camp orientation for Baltimore area campers. The event allows people to meet the young adults they’ll be going to camp with through ice breaker games, get a preview of camp activities, and receive packing lists and other relevant information for the week ahead.  

Judaism: One Size Doesn’t Fit All 

At camp, attendees can choose what level of observance they feel comfortable following. Some choose to attend services reverently and focus on their faith, while others place more value on community and gathering.  

“The great thing about Judaism is it’s not just a religious practice, it’s everything,” Asella says. “You can just spend time in your community and get to know them and build these bonds, and you don’t have to do that just by attending service or choosing to do Kosher for Passover. I think camp will strengthen your community by giving you the chance to enjoy light, fun and joy, especially during rough times. And that’s what we’ve done for a millennia, right?” 

Summer ‘24 and Beyond 

As Asella excitedly counts down the days until color wars and campfires, she’s already planning for her next adventure. She has her sights set on the Nai Cruise, which she’d like to attend as a camper and then serve as an ambassador for. She’s also considering working as an official Nai staff member. “I love camp so much and I can’t say no to getting involved!” she muses.