Where is Hillel located and what are their hours?
Hillel is located behind B complex and has a big blue door. Hillel is usually open in the afternoons and for evening programs. You can also find us at GSU during happy hours (Tuesday and Thursday) and upon request. 


Is Hillel only about services and praying?
Absolutely not! While we offer services on Friday evenings, that is only one of the many types of programs. We do many social programs like Hebrew Café, Lounge Nights, going to see shows, baseball games and bowling. We also have Israel and social activism programs. Hillel also combines with secular organizations to have socials or programs throughout the year. We believe that being Jewish is a lifestyle that must incorporate all components of life.


I don’t see anything I like, is Hillel for me?
The great thing about Hillel is that it is not defined. Last year we had group of students who did not feel connected with the programs. They put on a Masquerade Ball at a local club off campus. This program was attended by our entire university as well as many others in the area. These students are now very active and continue to plan big parties Hillel. Everyone has a place in our community. We are here to help you find your place.

Is there kosher food?
Commons (the main eating facility on campus) serves home-cooked kosher food Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner. The kitchen is meat and the food is amazing. All students (Jewish and not) find the kosher food to be the best on campus.

Do I have to pay a fee to join Hillel?
There is no fee to join Hillel and most Hillel programs have no participation cost.

Is there a rabbi at Hillel? Who leads services?
Services are entirely student-led and student-organized. However, we have close relationships with many Rabbi’s from all backgrounds that come to campus for programs.

I'm not religious. Can I still be a part of the Hillel community?
Absolutely! Hillel is there for all Jewish students. In fact, we have many students who come to Hillel simply for our cultural, social, or political programs. A student involved in Israel advocacy is just as much a part of the community as those who come to services weekly.

I can't go home for Rosh Hashanah. Are there services and meals?
Many Hartford students choose to stay on campus for the High Holidays. We offer services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur serving hundreds of students and community members. We offer dinners for Rosh Hashanah as well as pre- and post-fast meals for Yom Kippur. In addition Hillel offers special Passover Seders and special events for Purim, Hanukkah, Simchat Torah, Yom Ha’atzmaut and other holidays. Please see our calendar for details.

Does Hartford offer classes in Jewish studies? What about Hebrew?
Hartford actually has one of the best Jewish Studies programs in the country. Students who study with the Maurice Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies always feel the classes are exhilarating. Students can major in Jewish studies or simply take one course on anything from crash courses on Judaism to literature, modern and ancient history, and Biblical texts. Hartford also offers several levels of Hebrew instruction.

I'm interested in going to Israel. Can Hillel help me get there?
Not only can we help you, we can take you for free! Every winter and summer Hillel sponsors a ten-day Israel trip through Taglit: birthright Israel. The only requirements are that you are Jewish, between the ages of eighteen and twenty-six, and have never been on an organized trip to Israel. Find out more online at www.israel.hillel.org. Hillel can also help you find information and funding for other trips as well. Stop by or give us a call.