Rosie Smolowitz

A First-Year’s Journey to the ER Started with A Gift of Ice Cream

A First-Year’s Journey to the ER Started with A Gift of Ice Cream

“Every time I read about Duke, I find something new I want to do,” says Rosie Smolowitz. “I can totally see myself going to all of those jewelry-making nights and going to the wellness center and just sitting in the mindfulness garden.”

It’s not surprising talk coming from the first-year student, given that she’s been part of so many projects over the years.

Smolowitz, a graduate of Myers Park High School in Charlotte, spent time volunteering at hospitals and the Ronald McDonald House. She co-founded the Sababa Jewish Culture Club at her high school and launched Pints 4 Providers, a project that, in collaboration with Ben & Jerry’s, delivered ice cream to more than 600 healthcare workers at hospitals and nursing homes to thank them for their hard work during the pandemic.

“I was trying to find a way to bring joy back into these hospitals and bring some sort of uplifting motivation. I realized that ice cream is what makes me smile,” she says.

Struggling with her Jewish identity led her to co-found Sababa. Not only did she want a safe space for other Jewish students, but she also wanted to educate non-Jews about Jewish culture, traditions and history.

“Education is the biggest way to combat antisemitism,” she says.

Smolowitz plans to double major in biological sciences and global health, with minors in psychology and Spanish. She aspires to become an emergency room doctor.

Her LinkedIn bio reads: “One of my biggest passions is helping others and making an impact, even if it just means making one person smile.” Now Smolowitz is smiling about her Duke journey. “I can't even explain the level of excitement that I feel. It’s just so homey. I love the campus so much,” she says.

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