Featured Student: Danny Gadayev

Danny Gadayev was born in Brooklyn, New York, to traditional but not observant Jewish parents who immigrated to the U.S. from Soviet Russia. At the age of nine, he moved to Queens, where he spent most of his youth. After spending 5^th and 6^th grades in public school, Danny’s parents sent him to a Yeshiva day school in order to gain Torah knowledge and learn more about his Jewish heritage. To this day, his parents still motivate him to go to lectures that will refine his Middot and strengthen his Torah observance.

Danny’s inspiration to continue learning came from different sources. His father encouraged him to learn Gemara and Halacha in a program at Beth Gavriel every week. His brother clarified many misconceptions he had regarding Torah life. His rabbis in High School nurtured his personal growth (and still continue to do so). And he was already dedicated to teaching children. Danny shared, “Despite these many inspiring role models, I was still searching for more inspiration. In August 2015, I found it at Shapell’s, and I immediately grew fond of this Yeshiva and its entire faculty.”

Reflecting on his experience, Danny shared his feelings of tremendous gratitude to Shapell’s for all he has learned. He said, “I have gained tremendously from Rabbi Karlinsky and Rabbi Shuster. They have truly refined me into a different person altogether. Rabbi Karlinsky taught me to be passionate about learning, and made me realize that it’s crucial to search for more inspiration. When I met Rabbi Shuster, I was amazed at his brilliance and immediately wanted him to be my personal Rabbi. He kindly sat with me for days before I left, to advise and help me make some important life decisions. After leaving Shapell’s, I implemented a more productive daily schedule for myself. Learning became a must! I developed a love and appreciation for Torah learning and I now incorporate it into my daily schedule.”

Danny credits his rabbis at Shapell’s, and the many friends he made, for his growth. Since leaving Shapell’s, Danny has become more active in his Jewish community. He teaches Jewish History to children in a prominent school in Brooklyn, Tiferes Elimelech. He is also a director of Shaping Lives Sunday Program for kids that go to public school.

We are proud that Danny is a true Shapell’s story, and excited to welcome him back for his second stay at the Yeshiva.