From his early days at AJA to his current studies at the University of Texas at Austin, Nir Miller has pursued his passion for the sciences with curiosity and determination. Now a junior double majoring in Computational Physics and Mathematics, Nir is already making strides in robotics research and theoretical physics. In this Q&A, he reflects on his academic journey, proudest accomplishments, and future aspirations—offering insights and advice for current AJA students.
AJA News
AJA Market Day & Cultural Fair
AJA is excited to announce our upcoming Market Day & Cultural Fair, a fun and educational event that will take place on February 7th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Dell Jewish Community Center in the Tocker Engagement & Education Center & Jennifer & David Kaufman Family Living Room. This year, we’re thrilled to bring even more community engagement to Market Day by adding a Cultural Fair alongside our traditional student-made marketplace. Market Day is an opportunity for our students to develop entrepreneurial skills by creating and selling their handmade products. Whether it’s soap, jewelry, pottery, slime, stickers,...
Alumni Spotlight: Roy Ram Klein
Meet Roy Ram Klein, a 2017 AJA graduate and current junior at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. On the pre-med track, Roy is studying biomedical engineering with a focus on biomaterials, cellular, and tissue engineering. From volunteering as an EMT in Israel to conducting spinal cord injury research, Roy combines a passion for medicine and innovation to drive meaningful change. Read our Q&A with him.
Bright Minds, Big Discoveries: AJA Middle Schoolers Shine at Annual Science Fair
Yesterday, our AJA MPR was buzzing with excitement as our middle school students showcased their creativity, critical thinking, and scientific curiosity at the annual AJA Science Fair. Thirteen talented students presented twelve diverse projects that spanned a wide range of scientific fields, demonstrating their passion for learning and discovery. From innovative technologies to environmental solutions, the science fair provided a platform for students to explore, experiment,and share their findings with the AJA community. Innovative AJA Science Fair Projects: From VR Therapy to Artificial Pancreas Development The presentations covered an array of fascinating topics, including: Microbit Communication Devices, Bleach vs. UV...
Middle Schoolers Debate Reconstruction: 8th Graders Shine in Historical Showdown
On a recent morning at Austin Jewish Academy, Mrs. Hidalgo’s 8th grade students took center stage for a powerful display of their critical thinking and debating skills, culminating in a series of thought-provoking debates centered around the Reconstruction era. Guided by their study of this transformative period in American history and a lesson in debating well from attorney Hillery Kaplan, the students explored a range of complex topics, including the roles of women, the balance between reunification and civil rights, the role of the Freedmen’s Bureau, and more. Their debates were the result of weeks of preparation, where they researched...
Middle School Debate Meets the Courtroom: 8th Graders Learn Persuasion from a Pro
When Karen Hidalgo’s 8th graders started prepping for their Reconstruction Era debate, they got a crash course in persuasion from a seasoned family law attorney. With over 20 years of courtroom experience and a National Moot Court title under her belt, Hillery Kaplan shared practical tips on crafting strong arguments, presenting evidence, and winning over an audience. Blending humor, real-world stories, and debate strategies, she showed the students how skills like these can make a difference far beyond the classroom. Enjoy our Q&A with Hillery Kaplan below! Q: Describe your background and current work: A: I am an attorney who...