by Aidee Moss
Today,
I interviewed Dalya Attar.
What year did you graduate from Bais
Yaakov Baltimore, and what was the school like then?
I graduated from Bais Yaakov in 2007. My
grade was one of the largest, with about 120 students. We attended elementary
school at the Park Heights campus and switched to the Smith Avenue campus in
sixth grade. In high school, one of my favorite activities was Exhibit. It was
an incredible experience that taught me about the subjects we presented during
the event but also how to collaborate with others.
Have you kept in touch with friends
from high school or seminary?
Absolutely! I am still close with many of
them. We talk regularly and occasionally get together as a group. Those
friendships have lasted through the years.
How did it feel to transition from Bais
Yaakov to a co-ed, secular education?
The transition was a mix of smooth and
challenging. Bais Yaakov gave me a phenomenal academic foundation. I was well prepared
for the rigors of college and law school, especially in areas like studying,
writing, and critical thinking. More than that, I learned how to treat others
respectfully, which took me far in co-ed educational settings. Some challenges came with practical
differences, such as missing classes or group projects for Shabbos and Yamim
Tovim. It was also an adjustment moving from an all-girls environment to a
co-ed one, which naturally came with its own complexities.
What was Jewish life like during your
time at the University of Baltimore and the University of Maryland School of
Law? Did you experience conflicts with Yom Tov and class schedules?
Yes, there were definitely
conflicts. It was difficult at times to constantly explain why I needed to miss
class for religious observance. I often had to speak with professors in
advance, make arrangements for makeup work, and navigate group assignments scheduled
over Shabbos. It required a lot of self-advocacy and sometimes added stress,
but it also strengthened my Jewish identity and communication skills.
What was your career path leading to
elected office? What was your inspiration?
Since middle school, I knew I wanted to
become a criminal attorney. After law school, I became a prosecutor, and not
long after, I was approached and encouraged to run for office. It felt like a
natural progression of my desire to serve the public and make a meaningful contribution.
What do you consider your biggest
accomplishments in office?
I am incredibly proud of being the first frum representative from our community
in the Maryland General Assembly. It is significant not only because of the
representation it brings but also because it ensures our voices are heard and
our needs are considered.
Every year, I secure vital funding for our
community. This makes a tangible difference in schools, infrastructure, and
programs. Beyond that, I have helped thousands of constituents navigate complex
government systems: everything from housing issues to tax problems. That direct
assistance to individuals is, in many ways, the most meaningful part of the
job.
Do you have any personal stories that
illustrate the impact of your work?
One story that stands out is when I
received a call from someone who had been trying unsuccessfully for months to
get help from the Comptroller’s office. There was an error that was causing
serious consequences for their family. I reached out to a contact there, and
within 24 hours the issue was resolved. The person called me in tears,
expressing deep gratitude. That’s just one example of why I do this work. It is
to make sure people are seen, heard, and helped.
What is a typical day like as a senator
during session?
During session, my day usually begins
around 8 a.m. with meetings or caucuses. This is followed by the Senate floor
session, which can run anywhere from one to four-plus hours, depending on the
debate. After that, we move into committee hearings and voting sessions, which
can last well into the evening. These hearings involve listening to testimony
on bills, questioning witnesses, and ultimately voting on whether legislation should
move forward. Often, there are also events hosted by advocacy groups or lobbyists
in the evenings.
What about when the Senate is not in
session?
Most legislators return to their regular
jobs. I work as an attorney. But even then, a significant part of my time is
spent meeting with constituents, attending community events, and engaging with
advocacy groups. My evenings are often full of meetings, calls, or follow-ups.
Public service never really stops.
As a parent, do you feel you have a
good work-life balance?
During session, it is challenging to
maintain a true work-life balance. We are in Annapolis for 90 straight days,
which is very intense. Shabbos is really the only time I get to pause and be
fully present with my family. Outside of session, things are more
manageable. I have more control over my schedule, which allows me to structure
my day around my kids’ school pickup, dinner, and bedtime. Of course, there are
still times when I get stuck in court or have an evening commitment, but
overall, I am able to be much more hands-on during the interim.
What advice would you give your high
school self?
I would tell myself to appreciate those
years. Life only gets more complicated from there. Work hard
but also make time to enjoy
your friendships and the high school experience. Most importantly, listen when
your teachers and mentors emphasize the importance of good middos. That’s
what will carry you through the tough times and help you navigate a world that
doesn’t always share your values.
Aidee Moss is a high school sophomore in
Baltimore. She competes in CIJE high school robotics and is an assistant coach
for middle school CIJE robotics. Aidee enjoys STEM class, volunteering at the
Baltimore Humane Society, and traveling to new places. Aidee’s favorite way to
spend any day is with her family and friends… but never at the same time!
