Student Interviews
Our summer development intern, Payton, interviewed fellow students to try and understand what the Brody Jewish Center and accessible Jewish college experiences meant to Jewish students at UVA. Class years reflect the 2019-2020 school year.
Here's what they had to say:
Here's what they had to say:
Amanda
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Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Comforting- there is always food and people around to chill with- good couches
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
Shabbats were very meaningful, esp first one, seeing everyone's faces again, was nice to reconnect
Anything else to add?
Hope that we continue to put the people first- transition in the leadership structure was people first, programming second, that structure beneficial this year, engagements and connections to strengthen community, one on ones.
Comforting- there is always food and people around to chill with- good couches
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
Shabbats were very meaningful, esp first one, seeing everyone's faces again, was nice to reconnect
Anything else to add?
Hope that we continue to put the people first- transition in the leadership structure was people first, programming second, that structure beneficial this year, engagements and connections to strengthen community, one on ones.
Ally
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Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Go to everything you possibly can even if you are hesitant, you'll never get involved if you don't put yourself out there. You might be surprised by who you meet, find a buddy to go to stuff with if you don't want to go alone.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Eye-opening
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The wellness group was awesome, I wanted to be involved more. I loved Annie’s wellness programs, they were well thought out and put together. ILF with Carole was really enjoyable too. The BJC did a good job having a variety of things over quarantine
Anything else to add?
Having the Jewish community means a lot to me, don't know what I would have done without it.
Go to everything you possibly can even if you are hesitant, you'll never get involved if you don't put yourself out there. You might be surprised by who you meet, find a buddy to go to stuff with if you don't want to go alone.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Eye-opening
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The wellness group was awesome, I wanted to be involved more. I loved Annie’s wellness programs, they were well thought out and put together. ILF with Carole was really enjoyable too. The BJC did a good job having a variety of things over quarantine
Anything else to add?
Having the Jewish community means a lot to me, don't know what I would have done without it.
Jake
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Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Try and go to as many different things that you can and find what you enjoy. You can find your place and your people, Hillel offers so many things and there is something for everyone to better your college experience.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Empowering - Hillel allows you to choose how much or how little you want to do. The staff provides the resources and space for us to do whatever we want to do. I felt like i was able to do anything i wanted to do with my leadership position and be creative
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The Health and wellness group! It was a big focus during quarantine and it made it easier to stick to a regimen and we had a community to encourage each other. It really felt like I gained another community even though I wasn't at UVA. Also ILF with Carole, She did a great job. I did it with my brother, it was super interesting and nice to have something outside of school to focus on.
Try and go to as many different things that you can and find what you enjoy. You can find your place and your people, Hillel offers so many things and there is something for everyone to better your college experience.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Empowering - Hillel allows you to choose how much or how little you want to do. The staff provides the resources and space for us to do whatever we want to do. I felt like i was able to do anything i wanted to do with my leadership position and be creative
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The Health and wellness group! It was a big focus during quarantine and it made it easier to stick to a regimen and we had a community to encourage each other. It really felt like I gained another community even though I wasn't at UVA. Also ILF with Carole, She did a great job. I did it with my brother, it was super interesting and nice to have something outside of school to focus on.
Jonathan
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Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don't be afraid to reach out to upperclassmen! Explore what's out there, everyone can find their individual space even within Hillel, it is an easy way to meet a ton of great people and find people who share interests
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Empowering - everyone and staff are there to make our college experience the best it can be. They inspire me to use my voice and Hillel is a super supportive environment.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The virtual service for Colonnades was a cool and humbling experience, it was so nice to see so many students who were willing to help on such short notice to create something powerful and inspiring for a community that is so important to us.
Don't be afraid to reach out to upperclassmen! Explore what's out there, everyone can find their individual space even within Hillel, it is an easy way to meet a ton of great people and find people who share interests
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Empowering - everyone and staff are there to make our college experience the best it can be. They inspire me to use my voice and Hillel is a super supportive environment.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The virtual service for Colonnades was a cool and humbling experience, it was so nice to see so many students who were willing to help on such short notice to create something powerful and inspiring for a community that is so important to us.
Lilly
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Do you have anything to add?
This year the First Year Chairs did an especially great job. The first years felt like we were really able to connect,
This year the First Year Chairs did an especially great job. The first years felt like we were really able to connect,
Ginger
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What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Everyone really cares about each other. This community is not just about being Jewish, but Judaism provides the basis for a really caring community. It makes people feel like UVA is smaller.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don't be afraid to get involved. I was worried about not being religious and I was worried I would feel out of touch, but everyone is so welcoming it was easy to find my place.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Welcoming!
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
I mostly went to workouts and really enjoyed them. It was a fun way to keep in touch, be productive, and spend time together each week.
Everyone really cares about each other. This community is not just about being Jewish, but Judaism provides the basis for a really caring community. It makes people feel like UVA is smaller.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don't be afraid to get involved. I was worried about not being religious and I was worried I would feel out of touch, but everyone is so welcoming it was easy to find my place.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Welcoming!
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
I mostly went to workouts and really enjoyed them. It was a fun way to keep in touch, be productive, and spend time together each week.
Adam
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What are your highlights of the past year in your experiences with Hillel?
Shabbat on The Lawn. Planning this with the Advisory Board and successfully running such a crazy event was one of the most amazing moments of my time at UVa.
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
It adds that last level of comfort that is so hard to find in other places. Everyone just “gets it.” Through our shared experiences, we can form friendships that are truly special.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
The UVa Jewish community is there for you if you want it. It’s not overwhelming like at some schools, but if you want to have a special connection to other Jewish students, Hillel creates a great opportunity. I have also consistently found the upperclassmen to be incredibly helpful, and I hope to be just as helpful to new students this upcoming year.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Comfy. It describes the feeling I have there, the people I meet, and, perhaps most importantly, the couches to lounge on.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The WaJew Workouts were so fun! They kept me active, and seeing everyone was one of the highlights of my March and April. Also, I loved checking in with everyone on Friday nights for Shabbat. It was always a comfort at the end of my week.
Anything else?
The staff at Hillel is so incredibly caring, and I feel so thankful to have an outlet to express my Judaism with such lovely people in such a lovely environment.
Shabbat on The Lawn. Planning this with the Advisory Board and successfully running such a crazy event was one of the most amazing moments of my time at UVa.
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
It adds that last level of comfort that is so hard to find in other places. Everyone just “gets it.” Through our shared experiences, we can form friendships that are truly special.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
The UVa Jewish community is there for you if you want it. It’s not overwhelming like at some schools, but if you want to have a special connection to other Jewish students, Hillel creates a great opportunity. I have also consistently found the upperclassmen to be incredibly helpful, and I hope to be just as helpful to new students this upcoming year.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Comfy. It describes the feeling I have there, the people I meet, and, perhaps most importantly, the couches to lounge on.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
The WaJew Workouts were so fun! They kept me active, and seeing everyone was one of the highlights of my March and April. Also, I loved checking in with everyone on Friday nights for Shabbat. It was always a comfort at the end of my week.
Anything else?
The staff at Hillel is so incredibly caring, and I feel so thankful to have an outlet to express my Judaism with such lovely people in such a lovely environment.
Gina
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What are your highlights of the past year in your experiences with Hillel?
Some of my favorite moments with Hillel have been with Jewish Women’s Group. On that note, I am very sad that I will no longer see Zoё . I have also really appreciated Bagels on the Lawn! I was able to have great conversations and I enjoyed seeing Paige, Annie, and Carole regularly during that time. Overall, my highlights of the past year consist of meeting and spending time with amazing people!
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Again, I have to say the people I have connected with. Not only are my Jewish friends awesome, but I also have a space that is very naturally comfortable. The BJC is very welcoming and I appreciate knowing that I am always part of the community (mentally and physically).
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
I would definitely advise incoming Jewish students to step out of their comfort zone. Some incoming Jewish students may be overwhelmed by the transition to college, some may not feel Jewish enough to be apart of the Jewish community, and some may just not know what opportunities exist. Essentially, it can be hard to know where to start, and it’s possible that some students may not feel a pull towards Hillel. So, my advice would be to take advantage of the friends you automatically have at Hillel, come to any planned activity, and see if Jewish life at UVA makes sense for you (which is definitely would). Also, to remind incoming Jewish students that we know that your transition to college can be overwhelming and confusing, but that Hillel is a place where people unquestioningly support you and want to be there to make your transition more exciting.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Important. I chose this word because my experience with the BJC was important to my first year at UVA, and is important for the years to follow. It was a significant part of the friendships I have made, and it has allowed me to connect with my Jewish life once again.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
My experience with virtual Hillel was great! One of my fond memories is the zoom Shabbat I joined with JWG. I invited my sister to sit in with me, and she appreciated and enjoyed it as much as I did! One of the highlights was WaJew Wellness. I participated in yoga once and Pilates regularly, which were absolutely amazing (and challenging)!
Some of my favorite moments with Hillel have been with Jewish Women’s Group. On that note, I am very sad that I will no longer see Zoё . I have also really appreciated Bagels on the Lawn! I was able to have great conversations and I enjoyed seeing Paige, Annie, and Carole regularly during that time. Overall, my highlights of the past year consist of meeting and spending time with amazing people!
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Again, I have to say the people I have connected with. Not only are my Jewish friends awesome, but I also have a space that is very naturally comfortable. The BJC is very welcoming and I appreciate knowing that I am always part of the community (mentally and physically).
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
I would definitely advise incoming Jewish students to step out of their comfort zone. Some incoming Jewish students may be overwhelmed by the transition to college, some may not feel Jewish enough to be apart of the Jewish community, and some may just not know what opportunities exist. Essentially, it can be hard to know where to start, and it’s possible that some students may not feel a pull towards Hillel. So, my advice would be to take advantage of the friends you automatically have at Hillel, come to any planned activity, and see if Jewish life at UVA makes sense for you (which is definitely would). Also, to remind incoming Jewish students that we know that your transition to college can be overwhelming and confusing, but that Hillel is a place where people unquestioningly support you and want to be there to make your transition more exciting.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Important. I chose this word because my experience with the BJC was important to my first year at UVA, and is important for the years to follow. It was a significant part of the friendships I have made, and it has allowed me to connect with my Jewish life once again.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
My experience with virtual Hillel was great! One of my fond memories is the zoom Shabbat I joined with JWG. I invited my sister to sit in with me, and she appreciated and enjoyed it as much as I did! One of the highlights was WaJew Wellness. I participated in yoga once and Pilates regularly, which were absolutely amazing (and challenging)!
Gabby
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What are your highlights of the past year in your experiences with Hillel?
Rather surprisingly, the best part of my past year with Hillel was continuing my involvement virtually during quarantine. I had to come home from abroad which I was bummed about, but being able to come back to Hillel events was definitely a silver lining.
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Hillel really is a “safe space” for me on Grounds. It’s the place where you don’t have to explain yourself to anyone, and you can make jokes that you know will land. In other words, it’s a home. Without Hillel, I wouldn’t feel as comfortable being authentically myself at UVA.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don’t be afraid to flaunt your Judaism. Being Jewish is cool. And if you don’t believe me, come to Hillel and we’ll show you why.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Genuine. Everyone in Hillel in genuinely there to support the person that you are and who you want to be.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
I led weekly barre workouts with Hillel. Not only did this keep me accountable to workout during quarantine, but it gave me comfort in routine and familiarity during an uncertain time.
Anything else?
I’d say Hillel has exceeded my expectations. I figured I would gain one or two really great friends with Hillel, since the percentage of Jewish students is so small. But what I didn’t realize is that, because of the smaller percentage of Jews, we are better suited to form a tight knit group.
Rather surprisingly, the best part of my past year with Hillel was continuing my involvement virtually during quarantine. I had to come home from abroad which I was bummed about, but being able to come back to Hillel events was definitely a silver lining.
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Hillel really is a “safe space” for me on Grounds. It’s the place where you don’t have to explain yourself to anyone, and you can make jokes that you know will land. In other words, it’s a home. Without Hillel, I wouldn’t feel as comfortable being authentically myself at UVA.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don’t be afraid to flaunt your Judaism. Being Jewish is cool. And if you don’t believe me, come to Hillel and we’ll show you why.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Genuine. Everyone in Hillel in genuinely there to support the person that you are and who you want to be.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
I led weekly barre workouts with Hillel. Not only did this keep me accountable to workout during quarantine, but it gave me comfort in routine and familiarity during an uncertain time.
Anything else?
I’d say Hillel has exceeded my expectations. I figured I would gain one or two really great friends with Hillel, since the percentage of Jewish students is so small. But what I didn’t realize is that, because of the smaller percentage of Jews, we are better suited to form a tight knit group.
Matt
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What are your highlights of the past year in your experiences with Hillel?
In the past year with Hillel, I got the opportunity to take part in our Jewish Learning Fellowship, which allowed me to explore my own Jewish identity in ways I never have before. I also got to have this experience with a whole bunch of friends that I had met through our Hillel programming and made entirely new ones through this awesome experience.
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Hillel provides me a space to explore my identity where I am supported and challenged to think deeply about what is important to me. No other space on Grounds simultaneously challenges and supports me in the way that Hillel does, especially while also giving me an opportunity to take on a leadership role. Parallel to my own religious and spiritual development, Hillel has provided me significant professional development personally and experience in the non-profit space that is critical to my future career path.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Explore! Try literally anything and everything you can get your hands on. Whether that is at Hillel or outside of it, apply to everything that sparks your interest and be fearless in your desire to find a home at UVA.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Holistic! I chose this word because my time with the BJC has been incredibly well-rounded. My experience with the BJC has been social, religious, deeply personal and wildly fun. I know that my last year with the BJC will continue to challenge me and help me grow!
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
All of the one-on-one meetings I have had as part of my transition into the Chair position and the beginning of my time as a summer intern have been incredibly rewarding. While obviously not ideal, these one-on-ones were always the highlight of my time with Hillel while physically at UVA, so adapting these has been really awesome.
Anything else?
Hillel has far exceeded my needs and expectations as a Jewish student at UVA. I never expected to be involved in this community, but it has become an integral part of my college experience. It did this primarily by becoming a key aspect of my social and professional development at UVA. Hillel facilitated connections with other students that no other organization on Grounds could have, shaping my entire experience.
In the past year with Hillel, I got the opportunity to take part in our Jewish Learning Fellowship, which allowed me to explore my own Jewish identity in ways I never have before. I also got to have this experience with a whole bunch of friends that I had met through our Hillel programming and made entirely new ones through this awesome experience.
What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Hillel provides me a space to explore my identity where I am supported and challenged to think deeply about what is important to me. No other space on Grounds simultaneously challenges and supports me in the way that Hillel does, especially while also giving me an opportunity to take on a leadership role. Parallel to my own religious and spiritual development, Hillel has provided me significant professional development personally and experience in the non-profit space that is critical to my future career path.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Explore! Try literally anything and everything you can get your hands on. Whether that is at Hillel or outside of it, apply to everything that sparks your interest and be fearless in your desire to find a home at UVA.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Holistic! I chose this word because my time with the BJC has been incredibly well-rounded. My experience with the BJC has been social, religious, deeply personal and wildly fun. I know that my last year with the BJC will continue to challenge me and help me grow!
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
All of the one-on-one meetings I have had as part of my transition into the Chair position and the beginning of my time as a summer intern have been incredibly rewarding. While obviously not ideal, these one-on-ones were always the highlight of my time with Hillel while physically at UVA, so adapting these has been really awesome.
Anything else?
Hillel has far exceeded my needs and expectations as a Jewish student at UVA. I never expected to be involved in this community, but it has become an integral part of my college experience. It did this primarily by becoming a key aspect of my social and professional development at UVA. Hillel facilitated connections with other students that no other organization on Grounds could have, shaping my entire experience.
Jen
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Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Give Hillel and the Jewish community a real chance. Like everywhere else, making friends and building relationships takes time -- I promise it'll be worth it in the end.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Supportive. I know that the Jewish community, and BJC staff, will always have my back and be there for me no matter what I need.
Anything else?
I can't even put into words how helpful Hillel was in my everyday life as a student -- not only did it give me a safe religious space, I know Hillel staff would do anything and everything for Jewish students. I met some of my best friends through Hillel, connected with the staff, and continued to question my Jewish beliefs because of Hillel programming. The BJC and Hillel played a vital role in my college experience.
Give Hillel and the Jewish community a real chance. Like everywhere else, making friends and building relationships takes time -- I promise it'll be worth it in the end.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Supportive. I know that the Jewish community, and BJC staff, will always have my back and be there for me no matter what I need.
Anything else?
I can't even put into words how helpful Hillel was in my everyday life as a student -- not only did it give me a safe religious space, I know Hillel staff would do anything and everything for Jewish students. I met some of my best friends through Hillel, connected with the staff, and continued to question my Jewish beliefs because of Hillel programming. The BJC and Hillel played a vital role in my college experience.
Michael
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What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
The most obvious thing is the connection to Judaism, but I think beyond that I feel that there is something unique about the Jewish community for me that is different from every other community I belong to. I don’t think I could really describe what that is, but its definitely different. When I walk into Hillel or log on to Zoom during Shabbat, its just a different feeling than when I engage with another community. Judaism and the Jewish community is important to my identity, and Hillel fills that important need for me.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Everything is going to be different this year, but I would say, if you really want to be a part of the Jewish community at UVA but maybe don’t know anyone at Hillel or you’re having trouble meeting new Jewish students, get to know the Hillel staff. They are all great and do a tremendous job fostering community and even if you don’t know another Jew on grounds, they can help integrate you into the community.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Meaningful. Whether it's learning or social events, I truly feel that everything I’ve done through Hillel has been meaningful.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
Virtual Hillel was very different. I really enjoyed Bruch and Brachot since it was just a few students, so we all both learned a lot and had a good time doing it. The Friday Zoom Shabbats were also a definite highlight. It was great to hear about everyone’s week and celebrate Shabbat during the pandemic.
Anything else?
Judaism has become, over time, a really important part of my identity. If I didn’t have a way to connect with that part of my identity at school, I would have had a much worse college experience.
The most obvious thing is the connection to Judaism, but I think beyond that I feel that there is something unique about the Jewish community for me that is different from every other community I belong to. I don’t think I could really describe what that is, but its definitely different. When I walk into Hillel or log on to Zoom during Shabbat, its just a different feeling than when I engage with another community. Judaism and the Jewish community is important to my identity, and Hillel fills that important need for me.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Everything is going to be different this year, but I would say, if you really want to be a part of the Jewish community at UVA but maybe don’t know anyone at Hillel or you’re having trouble meeting new Jewish students, get to know the Hillel staff. They are all great and do a tremendous job fostering community and even if you don’t know another Jew on grounds, they can help integrate you into the community.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Meaningful. Whether it's learning or social events, I truly feel that everything I’ve done through Hillel has been meaningful.
How was your experience with virtual Hillel? Highlights or fond memories?
Virtual Hillel was very different. I really enjoyed Bruch and Brachot since it was just a few students, so we all both learned a lot and had a good time doing it. The Friday Zoom Shabbats were also a definite highlight. It was great to hear about everyone’s week and celebrate Shabbat during the pandemic.
Anything else?
Judaism has become, over time, a really important part of my identity. If I didn’t have a way to connect with that part of my identity at school, I would have had a much worse college experience.
Zack
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What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Hillel gave me a smaller community of people who have a common experience to me. It provided me everything from a place to study, socialize, learn, and engage with a diverse group of people. My friendships from Hillel are incredibly deep because they are based on living so many different parts of college life together.
How has Hillel met or exceeded your needs as a Jewish student?
Hillel has provided everything I’ve needed and wanted, from social events, to Jewish learning, to religious opportunities, and especially ways to develop as a leader. I am definitely a more confident and competent leader because of my experiences on JLC over the past three years.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don’t be afraid to bring your non-Jewish friends or hall-mates to Hillel!
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
It’s hard to say in one word, but I guess I’d have to go with powerful. I could never have imagined the power this community would have to help me grow as a person and have a place to belong at UVA.
Anything else?
Hillel has been a pillar of my college experience. One especially fond memory that I have is studying for finals at the BJC every semester. I have bonded with so many people unexpectedly over hard work, more fruit rollups than I can count, and procrastination. Some of my best memories in college have been during finals study hours at Hillel.
Hillel gave me a smaller community of people who have a common experience to me. It provided me everything from a place to study, socialize, learn, and engage with a diverse group of people. My friendships from Hillel are incredibly deep because they are based on living so many different parts of college life together.
How has Hillel met or exceeded your needs as a Jewish student?
Hillel has provided everything I’ve needed and wanted, from social events, to Jewish learning, to religious opportunities, and especially ways to develop as a leader. I am definitely a more confident and competent leader because of my experiences on JLC over the past three years.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
Don’t be afraid to bring your non-Jewish friends or hall-mates to Hillel!
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
It’s hard to say in one word, but I guess I’d have to go with powerful. I could never have imagined the power this community would have to help me grow as a person and have a place to belong at UVA.
Anything else?
Hillel has been a pillar of my college experience. One especially fond memory that I have is studying for finals at the BJC every semester. I have bonded with so many people unexpectedly over hard work, more fruit rollups than I can count, and procrastination. Some of my best memories in college have been during finals study hours at Hillel.
Payton
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What does Hillel add to your college experience that you wouldn't find in another space on Grounds?
Hillel has given me so many opportunities to broaden my horizons as both a Jewish student and just a UVA student. I have made some of my best friends through the BJC and become involved in so many different things because of my experiences with Hillel.
How has Hillel met or exceeded your needs as a Jewish student?
Hillel has amazing staff that have knowledge and experience with many different subjects. From Jewish education, to crafting a resumé, to creating an amazing social program, the staff and my peers have always been great resources for any help I have needed.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
You get out of what you put into this organization, but it is always here for you in any capacity.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Supportive- the BJC goes above and beyond in supporting its students and meeting their needs. I have relied on the BJC and the Hillel community to be a home away from home and it has been a strong community that I always feel welcome in.
Hillel has given me so many opportunities to broaden my horizons as both a Jewish student and just a UVA student. I have made some of my best friends through the BJC and become involved in so many different things because of my experiences with Hillel.
How has Hillel met or exceeded your needs as a Jewish student?
Hillel has amazing staff that have knowledge and experience with many different subjects. From Jewish education, to crafting a resumé, to creating an amazing social program, the staff and my peers have always been great resources for any help I have needed.
Do you have any advice for incoming Jewish students?
You get out of what you put into this organization, but it is always here for you in any capacity.
Can you describe your experience with the Brody Jewish Center in one word?
Supportive- the BJC goes above and beyond in supporting its students and meeting their needs. I have relied on the BJC and the Hillel community to be a home away from home and it has been a strong community that I always feel welcome in.