For many students, “back to school” means joining new clubs, meeting new people, and expanding one’s broad base of knowledge. For Queens College students who are part of the Hillel family, back to school means all of the above.
Booths, colorful posters, and informative flyers lined the Quad on the first Wednesday during free hour, as Hillel kicked off the beginning of the school year with an official “Welcome Back” get-together. The myriad events and activities scheduled for the near future pumped up both returning students and unfamiliar first years for what will be an amazing fall semester. Even more compelling than the advertised events were the outgoing, helpful Hillel student officials present. Before I even had a chance to introduce myself, representatives stationed along the different stands began handing out brochures and supplying information about their respective group or division.
Despite the expected “hustle and bustle” that accompanies the start of any school year, QC Hillel put together what will surely be an extraordinary year of events. The first Shabbat featured beautiful prayer services, a free Friday night dinner, an oneg (social gathering in which Jewish songs are sung) held at the home of Rabbi and Rebbetzin Charnoff (leaders of the QC Jewish community), and a chance for friends to spend time with one another in an enjoyable and religious atmosphere.
This first Hillel Shabbaton of the year fostered new relationships and provided a sense of camaraderie for all. Whether one stayed at a good friend’s, as I did, in the dorms, or at a nearby apartment, finding a place to stay was simple. If you did not know of any friends or family close to Queens College, the Hillel offered the choice of staying with a number of students or alumni. Information on where one could stay for the weekend was easily accessible through any of the handouts distributed on Wednesday during free hour. Moreover, any questions one might have had were answered in a heartbeat by the Hillel student officials stationed at the Quad.
As a first year, the beauty of this kick-off event had to have been the “something for everyone” ideology. Students who fall on the more religious end of the spectrum were apprised of available shiurim (lectures) offered at the Hillel and the home of the Charnoffs, both during and after school hours. Yet, at the same time, those who are more Zionistic, enjoy singing, or are even looking for a route to meditation, had the chance to learn about Birthright’s free trip to Israel, Tizmoret (the QC Jewish A Capella group) auditions, and mindfulness sessions.
This clear level of preparation, organization, and above all, dedication, illustrates just how invaluable the QC Hillel is. Although the first week of college life can be unnerving, with the inevitable uncertainties and questions that arise along the way, it is reassuring to know that a group of students who not too long ago stood in the same “first year” shoes I’m in, are there to provide any assistance needed religiously, socially, or academically.
Cover image via the QC Hillel Facebook page.
