Dear Hillel: Four Years of Joy and Growth
“Dear Hillel” showcases letters from graduating seniors reflecting on their experiences of joy and Jewish life with their campus Hillels. Jack Landstein, a graduating senior at the University of Michigan, studying economics, entrepreneurship, and Jewish studies, writes about how his four years at Michigan Hillel helped shape his college experience. Read Jack’s letter to Hillel:
Dear Hillel,
I can’t believe the welcome barbecue I attended as a first-year student in 2021 was four years ago! I came to the event eager to meet new friends and find a home at the University of Michigan. Now, as a graduating senior looking back at everything Michigan Hillel gave me, I am so grateful for the friendships I made and the home I will always have in the Jewish community here.
Reflecting on the last four years, here’s what stands out in my Hillel journey from each year:
- First year: I jumped right into Jewish life at Michigan, planning a Greek life lunch that helped build relationships between my fraternity and the Hillel community. With over 50 fraternity brothers in attendance, it was a great introduction for me and many of my friends to Hillel’s warm, welcoming space.
- Second year: My second year on campus was marked by my first time at the annual Hillel retreat. I served as a retreat leader where I had the opportunity to introduce over 100 new students to Michigan’s Jewish life and show them how important it would be in their time on campus. A bonus highlight from my second year was a big Israel Week bash at Rick’s, the local campus bar, with all of my friends and the whole Jewish community.
- Third year: The third year of college was filled with leadership opportunities as I joined Hillel’s executive board (e-board) and worked to create positive change for the Hillel community. From making Shabbat dinner a cozier, more delicious experience (best challah in town!), to actively combating antisemitism on campus, to lifting up moments of Jewish joy whenever possible, my year on the e-board is one that I am so proud of.
- Fourth year: This year came too fast! My involvement in Hillel grew to the national level as I became co-chair of Hillel International’s Fellowship: Ambassadors for Birthright, attended the Hillel International Israel Summit in Chicago, and actively recruited students for Birthright to help deepen their connection to Israel and their Jewish identities. Spending time with my friends this year and reflecting on the highs of Jewish joy showed me how resilience and hope can bring light to dark times.
Putting my energy and ideas into Michigan Hillel gave purpose and meaning to my four years at college. Michigan Hillel was the backbone of my Jewish experience and I am forever grateful to the community and opportunities I found there. As I look forward to my future, I am excited to see where my Jewish journey takes me next.