Colleges for the Jewish "B" student (Part 1)

Musicmom2015
Mon, 29 Apr 2019 22:13:57 +0000

So, we did not end up visiting U Richmond. But we did visit UVA, UNC Chapel Hill, Wake Forest and William and Mary. I know some of these are more for A students, but nonetheless thought it might be helpful to share feedback since none of these have huge Jewish populations.

UVA - great! They were serving a kosher for passover lunch in a room in the student center (dinner was held at Hillel). We were able to talk to the director, Israeli fellow and lots of students. It sold my DD on the school (well she liked it anyway but this sealed the deal). It was her crowd and there was a steady flow of kids. And the food was nothing fancy but the fact that they were seeking it out was impactful for us. Also they offer hebrew language classes.

UNC - also thumbs up! They have a nice Hillel house and we were showed around by two enthusiastic students. My DD felt is was the right vibe and enough critical mass. They have a Jewish sorority that is based at Hillel that meets to do community service. For a small % school, we were pleasantly surprised.

William and Mary - not good. This was really disappointing. I had been following them on social media and it looked promising. They have a brand new Hillel building but they need more students. I think she said there were 400 Jewish students but they had about 12-15 at the seder. They are hoping to attract more Jewish kids now that they have the building so in a few years it might be much better. For now, too small for my DD. She doesn’t want to have to create the community herself. We asked if there was a birthright trip and the girl said “yes”. Then she said there were only about 3 students going so they are added to another group.

Wake Forest - also not good. Again, looked promising online but in person was disappointing. We met with the director and met some students but it seemed way too small. They have Friday night dinners but no services. Even though my DD might not attend services, the fact that it wasn’t even offered bothered her. They also do not have a full birthright trip. We were told most kids go with groups from their hometown. Our tour guide was actually wearing a small chai necklace but when my daughter asked about Hillel she said she doesn’t go. So for a smallish school with a small % Jewish, a smaller active group is tough.

Hope this helps! And if someone knows more about these last two that is more positive I would love to hear it!