TOP TEN WAYS TO ROCK JEWISH LIFE
ON A SECULAR COLLEGE CAMPUS

by Shalhevet Roth

 Opinions expressed are those of the author

1. Dilemma: There is so much to do on campus – parties, hanging out, classes, concerts, sports events, lectures, vegging – why should I take the time to be involved with Jewish life on campus?

Through attending Jewish events and programs you will meet a diverse group of Jews, create a smaller community for yourself within the larger campus, find ways to personally contribute and affect change at your school, and YOU WILL ADD DEPTH AND MEANING TO YOUR LIFE!

Tip: Don’t underestimate the importance of your involvement in the Jewish community. The strength of your campus’ Jewish life depends on the commitment, passion and innovative ideas of individuals like yourself. Whether you are a “public” or “private” leader, your dedication is a precious gift to your campus and you will reap the benefits from being involved.

2. Dilemma: Where will I meet other Jews?

Go to Hillel and other Jewish events! Take advantage of programs and activities offered (Israel, social, educational, community service, etc.). Find out if there is a JLIC couple on your campus (the Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus is an OU program that sends young, Rabbinic couples to help oversee and enliven Jewish life - for more information, visit http://jli.co.il/).

Tip: Stick out the awkwardness! It’s always difficult at first, but if you tough out the beginning, you will no doubt find your niche.

3. Dilemma: There are so many great academic opportunities available to me, but I also want to continue my Jewish learning.

Make a regular chavrusah (Torah study session with a partner) at least once a week! Attend classes at Hillel and seek out educational programs. If they don’t offer what you’re looking for, speak to a staff person and make a suggestion!

Tip: Try to commit to learning with the same chavrusah every day for a short time.

4. Dilemma: Shabbos feels like a burden.

Embrace Shabbos as a time to enjoy a true rest, away from your school responsibilities. Turn off your cell-phone and computer and opt for time with friends, zemirot, good food, napping and learning.

Tip: If you REALLY stop doing school work on Shabbos and utilize it to enjoy other pleasures, the day will take on added meaning and feel like an incredible gift.

5. Dilemma: I feel that I am stagnating in my Jewish growth.

Find a mentor - a staff person, advisor, Rabbi or teacher that you can check up with regularly and who will inspire and push you to strive higher.

Tip: Finding someone to talk to on campus is an extra bonus because he/she will understand your situation first-hand.

6. Dilemma: I am so overwhelmed by school work, extracurricular activities, campus life, and being active in the Jewish community!

Schedule time to relax and have fun!!!

Tip: Watch TV, take a walk, play frisbee with your friends, go to a yoga class…by taking a break, you will be more effective in everything else that you are doing. Remember: moderation is key!

7. Dilemma: I have met tons of great people since I started school, but I don’t have too many Jewish friends

Seek out a Jewish “chevra” (circle of friends). Whether it’s two friends or ten, making Jewish friends on campus who share some of your interests is central to keeping your Jewish identity strong.

Tip: Make extra efforts to develop relationships with Jews that you connect with – go to coffee, make a study date, each lunch together or see a movie. College is a busy time and putting in the extra effort to spend time with people is really how you transform an “acquaintance” into a “friend.”

8. Dilemma: I meet Jews all the time on campus who are completely unaffiliated and who don’t know anything about Jewish practice or belief. What can I do?

Invite them to join you for a Shabbos meal or take them to a Jewish social event! There are so many Jews out there who are thirsty for learning more and you can open the door for them.

Tip: Make sure to be extra friendly and explain rituals and customs as best you can (entering new environments is scary!). Take things slowly and show them the beauty of Jewish life.

9. Dilemma: Do I eat to live or live to eat? Midnight munchies, cold pizza for breakfast, ice-cream every day, no time for lunch…better snack all afternoon, huffing and puffing up the stairs?

Be physically active and be conscious of eating a HEALTHY AND BALANCED diet!

Tip: Kosher Dining options are different on every campus. Scope out what is available to you and devise a plan to make sure you are getting adequate fruits, veggies, carbs, and proteins! Seek out advice if you are approaching the “Freshman 15” or just feel icky.

10. Dilemma: I have tried to make Jewish friends on campus and to take an active role in the community, but I’m just not happy and have not made any strong connections with people.

Don’t hesitate to explore the local Jewish community in your area! Chances are - there will be families who will be happy to have you for Shabbos and perhaps classes that you can attend in a nearby shul or school.

Tip: Utilize your local resources, but try not to become too dependent on leaving campus to have fun or socialize. As always – balance and moderation!

More NCSY education resources:

JLIC - Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus

NCSY Online Yeshiva Directory

Keeping Posted Education Guide