Follow Chaim Lerner*, a 35 year old Avreich with Smicha, as he makes the transition from Kolel to work.

Session 1:

Chaim Lerner, a father of 6, has been learning in a Kollel for the past ten years. He was supported by his father in law, and supplemented his income by tutoring. Since the support will soon cease, Chaim needs to start earning a livelihood. Chaim seems highly intelligent but has no exposure to the workforce, and does not have any specific career interest.

Chaim attended Yeshiva Shaarei Halimud in Brooklyn, NY where he earned mainly A’s and B’s in his courses. However, the level of the classes was quite basic. Chaim’s favorite courses were Math and Science. He greatly enjoyed reading, particularly science books, which he feels demonstrates Hashem’s wisdom. Chaim also enjoys tinkering with cars and watches.

When I asked him Chaim how he felt about the transition from rabbinical student to worker Chaim confided that he has ambivalent feeling about this transition. He acknowledged that it is his responsibility as a husband to support his wife, who has her hands full caring for the children.  Yet, he is deeply attached to his learning, and will miss doing so full time. Conversely Chaim feels a sense of excitement at exploring new careers and opportunities.

I responded by showing Chaim a diagram of Super’s Life Roles Rainbow and we discussed how our roles change over time. I also explained that from a ruchnius perspective, Chaim can serve Hashem by going to work with the correct intentions, as this is as much a form of Avodas Hashem as his learning. I encouraged him to discuss this further with his Rabbi, and also to talk to his friends who have recently made the transition from learning to work.

We then explored Chaim’s finances. Chaim said that he had about $10,000 in the bank. His father-in-law was willing to support him for one more year at which time he needs to be financially solvent. This time limit precludes him from directly pursue careers which require extensive training and education. 

At the close of the session, I asked Chaim to complete the O’net Interest Profiler, a survey that would help identify his career interests, and to bring the results to the next session.

Observations: Chaim is bright but has little by way of secular education. He may need assistance acclimating to his new role of breadwinner. Further research is required to determine suitable career options.

Next Week: Follow Chaim as he works to foster an emotional adjustment to his new role and explores his career interests and education opportunities.

*Names and identifying details have been changed.