Ashley Jacobson: A Profile in Jewish Life

Name and Current Locale: Ashley Jacobson. St. Albans, VT

What you are doing now: Currently, I live with my parents in St.Albans. I work as a library assistant and a Zoom technician. I also attend Champlain College full-time and am the JCVT Communication and Marketing intern.

What do you do beyond your work? I love to paint. Currently, I have been painting a lot of abstract pictures of family and friends. I like anything art-related though, from creating small sculptures to doodling in a sketchbook.

What was your upbringing like? I grew up in Venice, Florida. I was very unaware of my Jewish background when I was younger. I called my grandmother “Bubby” but that was the extent of it. I moved to New Jersey to attend 4th and 5th grade, and that is when I attended my first Passover. It was really eye-opening to learn about Jewish culture through my extended family. When I moved back to Florida shortly afterwards, however, everything went back to how it was initially. 

How would you describe your connection to Jewish life now? I would describe my connection to Jewish life currently as “still learning.” I feel like I grasp the basics of the religion, but I am always learning more. My Jewish identity is part of my internship work and still a large part of my extended family’s life. 

How has your Jewish identity evolved over time? I have become a lot more accepting and open about my Jewish identity now than when I was younger, especially now that I live in Vermont. I know a lot of people in the Burlington area who are around my age and Jewish.

How has your Jewish identity made a difference in your current life? It has helped me to better connect with my family. 

What do you think is special about Jewish life in Vermont? I find the Jewish community in Vermont to be very accepting of everyone, which I greatly appreciate. 

What you value most about your Jewish experiences: My Jewish experiences and identity have provided me with a better understanding of the world. It has also provided me with some really good food.