"I decided to pursue a degree in JIMES because of the department’s unique, interdisciplinary approach to Middle East studies. In a region where dynamics and geopolitics are deeply shaped by religion, studying Judaism or Islam in isolation offers a dangerously incomplete picture. For this reason, my JIMES capstone course on antisemitism and Islamophobia, taught by Dr. Judaken, was an especially rewarding academic experience. By examining centuries of religion and intolerance in conjunction, I developed a deeper appreciation for their nuanced similarities and a renewed sense of hope for a more constructive shared future.

"Following graduation, I intend to move to the Middle East and apply my Hebrew and Arabic skills alongside my growing expertise in religion and geopolitics to work on projects much like my JIMES senior thesis. My thesis envisions a joint regional “Abrahamic Banking” system, enabled by the Abraham Accords, that is mutually compliant with Halacha and Sharia law and places shared economic benefit at the center of peacebuilding efforts between these communities. My interdisciplinary training through JIMES is precisely what has equipped me to pursue these kinds of innovative, forward-thinking ideas, and I look forward to carrying these lessons into my next steps." - Jake Hyman, Class of '26

"A deep and energetic thinker with adroit questions, insightful and clear writing, and a gentle manner with other people." - Rabbi Pamela Barmash, Ph.D., Professor of Hebrew Bible and Biblical Hebrew

“In the capstone seminar, Jake always brought deep and urgent questions because they were provoked by his own genuine interrogation of the concerns raised in the class. He often challenged the reading or demanded that I explain with more clarity what remained perplexing or unconvincing. Open-minded and quietly insistent, his concerns opened the class discussion as a space to explore some of the most vexing issues we raise in JIMES courses. This ethos is why he merits the Zamada award.” - Jonathan Judaken, Ph.D., Goldstein Professor of Jewish History and Thought

“Jake came to our program with a strong background in spoken Arabic and embraced the challenge of transitioning into a rigorous, MSA-focused advanced course. Through consistent effort and intellectual discipline, he not only adapted but excelled. He is a thoughtful, respectful, and hardworking student whose collaborative spirit and perseverance made him a valued member of the classroom community." - Housni Bennis, M.A., Senior Lecturer in Arabic

Congratulations, Jake, on your accomplishments at WashU!