Shapiro, Sandra "Sandy"

Sandy discusses her experiences during World War II as a young girl and how those experiences shaped her life. Also, Sandy recounts her childhood memories of blackouts and brownouts during the war and her later discovery of the Holocaust's devastation, including the betrayal of Jewish residents in Amsterdam. She emphasized that her experience was more historical than personal memory. She also shares personal stories of friends and family affected by the Holocaust. Sandy reflects on how the influence of her parents' honesty, kindness, and activism, the idealism of post-WWII democracy, and the importance of seeking evidence over belief shaped her character, along with their education which encouraged critical thinking. The discussion covered how wartime experiences and post-war ideals influenced personal and community values. She discussed her experiences as a mother and professional woman, highlighting the challenges of arranging child care in the U.S. compared to France. She emphasized her non-religious Jewish identity, influenced by her upbringing in New York. Sandy shared her mentoring roles at CUNY, where she helped students overcome personal and academic challenges. She also reflected on her career in psychotherapy, particularly her work with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and trauma. Sandy advised listening, maintaining a scientific attitude, and recognizing interconnections in life. She offered insights into overcoming personal wounds and the importance of finding passion in one's work.