Recently, my 10th-grade Gemara shiur with Rabbi Semel had the opportunity to participate in a joint chavrusa learning session with the 7th and 8th-grade Kollel Track students from Emek. The event took place in our Beit Midrash, filling the room with the lively sound of Torah study and discussion across all corners. What made it truly special wasn’t just the learning itself, but the connection and energy that came from students of different ages coming together for the same purpose: to grow in Talmud Torah–the learning of Torah.

Before the session began, Rabbi Semel gave a short introduction about the importance of learning b’chavrusa, emphasizing that Torah study thrives when it’s shared. We then paired up, with each of us 10th graders sitting down with one of of the younger students. For many of them, it was their first time learning in a high school Beit Midrash setting, and we wanted to make it something memorable. 

The topic we learned together focused on the High Holidays, which, at the time, were rapidly approaching. Some of us were surprised by how sharp and eager the Emek students were: they came ready to learn, challenge ideas, and explore the text with confidence. Others found it rewarding to take on the role of teacher for a change, guiding their chavrusa through the Gemara and commentaries while also deepening their own understanding in the process.

As the session went on, the noise level rose out of passion for learning. Every table buzzed with back-and-forth argument, laughter, and excitement. You could feel the energy of real learning and Torah being built together word by word, idea by idea.

After the learning ended, we all gathered for a short debrief. Many Emek students shared how amazing it was to learn with high schoolers and see what’s ahead for them in their own Torah journey. For us, it was a reminder of how much we’ve grown since middle school and how important it is to pass that on.

Events like these remind us that the Beit Midrash isn’t just a classroom, it’s a place to grow in Torah study. The walls may be lined with sefarim, but it’s the voices of students learning together that bring it to life.