<p>What’s Jewish life like at Amherst? Not just the number of kids, but the level of involvement. Are there many (any) observant jews on campus?</p>
<p>I know several who observe and then several who just take advantage of the dates to skip school. You can even sign up for passover meals from Val and they provide matzoh(sp?). There's still some in Val.</p>
<p>I was curious about the Jewish life as well. I know there is the Amherst Hillel, but is it JAPPY, or regular Jewish?</p>
<p>Amherst Hillel and Jewish life at Amherst is much different than it is at many big universities or at some of the Ivies. But Jewish life/Hillel here are still wonderful. The greatest thing about our Hillel is the opportunity to get involved right away. Virtually the whole board, including the 2 co-presidents, is composed of sophomores and freshmen. Hillel runs weekly Shabbat services and dinner (services usually get 10-15 students, dinner around 40-70, not all of whom are Jewish), and many other events. Shabbat is the core, but we host guest speakers, social events, interfaith dinners, etc. Services are a blend between Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist, with lots of Hebrew singing, cool English readings, some silent prayer, etc. For example, in December we had dinner and dreidl with the Catholic group. The next week, the Improv comedy troupe did a special Jewish humor night. And then we had a Meditation Shabbat as we prepared for finals. Another great resource Amherst has is the 5college consortium. UMass is literally right down the street, and I go there for holidays like Sukkot, which Amherst Hillel is too small to support.</p>
<p>There is a very nice Reconstructionist shul in town, about a mile or two from campus, called Jewish Community of Amherst (j-c-a.org). Though I grew up and am most comfortable with Conservative synagogues, I love to attend services there and do so whenever possible. It is a wonderful supplement to Amherst's Jewish life. Within walking distance there is also a Chabad center, which I've been to, but mostly attracts UMass students. </p>
<p>We have a great mix of religious, cultural, interfaith, and Israel-related programming, some of which we share with the 5college area. Despite our small size, we sent 11 students on Birthright Israel trips this winter! The level of background education, family involvement, diversity, and spirit amongst the board is incredibly high. We are doing our best to get the campus's greater Jewish community involved, as well (somewhere around 15% of the campus is Jewish).</p>
<p>As for school, there is a professor in the religion department who specializes in Judaism, as well as a Spanish professor who teaches everything from Sphardic literature to Isaac Bashevis Singer. Also, study abroad in Israel is open, with many options available.</p>
<p>I strongly suggest you to come spend Shabbat with us sometime, if possible. We'd love to host you. If there are any other questions I can help answer, please let me know. Hillel is not affiliated with any one movement. Our Rabbi is conservative ordained. Most students come from a conservative or reform background.</p>
<p>for more info on Jewish life at amherst, email <a href="mailto:hillel@amherst.edu">hillel@amherst.edu</a></p>
<p>Hey, thanks for the info. I can't wait to join now - see you next fall!</p>