Student Story

Hillel has been a cornerstone of my college experience at Davis, and I cannot imagine the person I would be without it. Since starting at Davis in the fall of 2021, I have been a regular attendee at Hillel, primarily joining for Shabbat dinners. These initial experiences opened my eyes to the interconnectedness within the Jewish community at Davis.

I reconnected with one of my oldest friends, whom I hadn't seen in years, and we continue to attend Hillel and spend quality time together. The Hillel community has provided me with comfort and friendship. Toward the end of the 2021-2022 school year, I was uncertain about my future housing and had no one to turn to. Luckily, I met one of my current roommates because we both went to Shabbat every Friday and shared a class. I feel incredibly fortunate to have him as both a roommate and a friend.

I met the majority of my friends at Davis through Hillel, and without them, I would not be the person I am today. I consider myself incredibly lucky to have a tight-knit Jewish community at college that I can rely on, even amidst the relentless papers and exams. My friends within the Jewish community at Davis have inspired me to become more actively involved in Jewish organizations on campus, such as Aggies for Israel. Hillel, along with its vibrant community, helps me maintain a strong connection to my Jewish identity through a variety of events held throughout the year. I always look forward to the themed Shabbat dinners each week, the Matzah Ball, and the diverse and engaging activities. Hillel has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for the profound impact of the Jewish community I have found during my college years.