Hi, I'm Ashley Hefner, a psychology major at Yeshiva University, Stern College, based in New York. I pursue a blend of research, writing, and creative expression, with a special interest in how people think, learn, and connect. Between writing for the YU Observer, photographing campus life, and coordinating community programs with ORA Campus Fellowship, I'm constantly exploring the intersection of education, law, and the arts. I love Broadway shows, NYC culture, and using storytelling to inform and empower communities.

Ashley Hefner

Hi, I'm Ashley Hefner, a psychology major at Yeshiva University, Stern College, based in New York. I pursue a blend of research, writing, and creative expression, with a special interest in how people think, learn, and connect. Between writing for the YU Observer, photographing campus life, and coordinating community programs with ORA Campus Fellowship, I'm constantly exploring the intersection of education, law, and the arts. I love Broadway shows, NYC culture, and using storytelling to inform and empower communities.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Ashley Hefner, a psychology major at Yeshiva University, Stern College, based in New York. I pursue a blend of research, writing, and creative expression, with a special interest in how people think, learn, and connect.

Between writing for the YU Observer, photographing campus life, and coordinating community programs with ORA Campus Fellowship, I’m constantly exploring the intersection of education, law, and the arts. I love Broadway shows, NYC culture, and using storytelling to inform and empower communities.

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Work Experience

Fellow at ORA Campus Fellowship
October 1, 2025 - Present
Selected ORA Campus Fellow focusing on advocacy and education surrounding Halachic prenuptial agreements and issues of get refusal; participates in bi-weekly learning sessions exploring the intersection of Jewish courts and secular legal systems; engages with guest speakers to deepen understanding of get refusal; responsible for planning and organizing a campus event to raise awareness about Halachic prenups and healthy relationship practices
Staff Writer & Photographer at YU Observer
August 1, 2024 - Present
Contributes one article per month across politics, campus news, and arts & culture; conducts independent research on current events and political issues; composes features on campus programs, student initiatives, and cultural events; captures and provides original photography from New York City and on-campus locations to accompany published articles
Court Observation at New York Family Court
October 1, 2024 - March 1, 2025
Completed weekly 4-hour court observation sessions in New York Family Court; observed a broad range of proceedings, including permanency hearings, abuse and neglect cases, visitation disputes, and custody matters; gained exposure to attorney–client interactions, judicial questioning, and the procedural flow of family law cases
1st Place Winner, Langfan Oratory Competition at Langfan Oratory Competition
March 1, 2025 - March 1, 2025
Delivered a timed five-minute constitutional law argument on Fuld v. PLO, presenting a legal analysis and persuasive reasoning; analyzed complex constitutional questions, synthesizing case law, statutory frameworks, and policy considerations; demonstrated strong oral advocacy, structured argumentation, and courtroom-style presentation skills
Showcase Choreographer at Yeshiva University Dramatics Society
March 1, 2025 - March 31, 2025
Developed original choreography tailored to performers’ skills and the artistic theme of the production; Led rehearsals, provided instruction and feedback, and ensured the piece was performance-ready by showcase date

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology; Minor in Political Science at Yeshiva University, Stern College
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2026
Study Abroad Program at Meorit Yerushalayim, Seminary; Jerusalem, Israel
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2023

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Government, Professional Services