Hillel - University At Albany

Frequently Asked Questions

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  Does Hillel have social events?
  • Hillel sponsors all sorts of social events, including semi-formals, parties, movie nights, and celebrations, as well as educational, social action, and religious events. Interested in meeting new people and having a blast, while getting involved in the campus community? Hillel is for you!
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  What is Shabbat like on campus?
  • Whether traditional or not, UAlbany has a wonderful Shabbat community.  There are Orthodox, Conservative and Reform services and a communal Shabbat dinner each Friday night that school is in session, hosted alternately by Hillel and Shabbos House (Chabad).  In addition there are traditional Shabbat morning services every week.
  • If you’re shomer Shabbat Residential Life is aware that there are students that do not want to use their SUNYCards on Shabbat.  Contact them at 518.442.5875 to discuss specific issues you have.  Shabbat activities take place at the Campus Center, Shabbos House, and Chapel House which are all within walking distance of the uptown campus quads.
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  What kind of community service opportunities are available through Hillel?
  • Hillel is committed to tzedek, or justice, and we have many opportunities for students to make a difference.  UAlbany Hillel students participate in Alternative Spring Break trips, plan events to raise money for organizations like Save a Child’s Heart and the Koby Mandell Foundation, and participate in local community service projects in the Capital District.
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  What are High Holidays like on Campus?
  • UAlbany is closed for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  There are no Rosh Hashanah services on campus, but local synagogues provide free High Holiday tickets for all students.  Many families in the community delight in hosting students for the holidays.  Contact the Hillel office to arrange for home hospitality or transportation to services.  Hillel and Shabbos House host Yom Kippur services on campus as well as communal pre-fast and break-fast meals.
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  What opportunities are there to travel to Israel?
  • Hillel sponsors a ten-day free Israel trip through Taglit-birthright Israel.  Learn more online at www.freeisraeltrip.org. UAlbany Hillel traditionally travels together as a campus group during the winter break.  Registration for winter trips opens in September.  Contact us if you’re interested in going.
  • Hillel can also help you find information and funding for many other Israel experiences.
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  Does UAlbany offer study abroad opportunities in Israel?
  • Many UAlbany students spend either a semester or a year at an Israeli university.  Students have studied at Hebrew University, Haifa, Tel-Aviv, and Ben Gurion University. Contact the Study Abroad Office at 518.442.3525 for information.
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  Are non-observant students involved in Hillel?  Can non-Jewish students attend events?
  • Hillel is for all Jewish students and friends are welcome as well. We have many students who come to Hillel for our cultural, social, or political programs.  Every student is important at Hillel and has a place here. Bring your friends, your suitemates, everyone!
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  Is there Kosher food on campus?
  • Dutch Quad dining hall provides Kosher (meat) lunch and dinner, and you may sign up at SUNYcard for a Kosher meal plan. This allows you to eat any meal at Dutch while retaining the right to eat at any other quad on campus.
  • Dreidels in the Campus Center has breakfast foods – 7:30 AM – 11 AM.
  • All Hillel and Shabbos House Shabbat dinners are Kosher.
  • All Kosher facilities are run by University Dining Services -Chartwells and operate under the Va’ad HaKashrut of the Capital District.
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  Does UAlbany offer classes in Jewish Studies or Hebrew?
  • UAlbany has a department of Judaic Studies. Contact the department at 442.4130, or at http://www.albany.edu/judaic_studies
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  There is no group for what I want to do. Can I start one?
  • Absolutely! Students start new groups all the time. What is your interest?  Let us know and we will help you start a new group. We can make it happen!
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  How can I get involved?
  • There’s no formal membership for Hillel on campus. If you’re a student, you can be involved! To get more information, contact us and we’ll get you on the weekly listserv and connect you to what interests you! We look forward to seeing you on campus!
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  Where is Hillel located?
  • The Program Office is in Campus Center 335 – the Program Director works here.
    • Phone: 518.591.8605
  • The Student Office is in Campus Center 320 – where students meet and hang out.
    • Phone: 518.442.5670
  • The Executive Director and administrative offices are located in Chapel House.
    • Phone: 518.489.8573 ext. 24, Fax: 518.489.8975
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