Holocaust survivor, 97, forced out of school when Nazis invaded granted ‘golden wish’ to finally go to college: ‘It felt like I grew up’

A 97-year-old Holocaust survivor, Jacqueline Kimmelstiel, fulfilled her lifelong dream of attending college for a day at Elizabeth Seton College in the Bronx. This opportunity was made possible by Hebrew Home RiverSpring Living’s “golden wish” program, which grants wishes to its residents. Kimmelstiel, who was forced out of school at age 12 during World War II, expressed her joy at finally experiencing a day of classes and even attending a basketball game.

During her day at the college, Kimmelstiel attended English and French classes, reconnecting with her love for learning and foreign languages. She also had the chance to participate in a basketball game as an honorary coach, receiving a warm welcome from the school community. The experience was described as “amazing” by Kimmelstiel, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to fulfill a dream that had eluded her for decades.

The initiative to make Kimmelstiel’s wish come true was sparked by her desire to engage in academic pursuits that had been denied to her earlier in life. The college experience was a special moment for Kimmelstiel and her family, who highlighted the importance of education in her life. Despite the challenges she faced as a Holocaust survivor, Kimmelstiel’s resilience and optimism were celebrated by the university president during the graduation ceremony.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Kimmelstiel expressed her gratitude and pride, mentioning that her late husband would have been proud of her accomplishment. The college experience was a poignant reminder of the opportunities that had been taken away from her in the past, making the day all the more meaningful for Kimmelstiel and her family.