Frequently Asked Questions: Prospective Students
General FAQ | Student Life FAQ | Parent FAQ | Shabbat FAQ
Q: How many Jewish students are on campus?
A: There are about 3,500 Jewish undergraduates, out of about 18,000 students.
Q: Where is the Florence & Chafetz Hillel House located?
A: The new Florence & Chafetz Hillel House is located at 213 Bay State Road, right in the middle of the Boston University Campus.
Q: Can I meet with a BU Hillel staff member for a tour?
A: Absolutely. Call us to arrange a day and time at 617-353-7200. We are open Monday through Thursday between 9:00am and 5:00pm, and Friday from 9:00am and 4:00pm
Q: Can I arrange to stay for a weekend or Shabbat with a host student?
A: Jewish student regularly host prospective students over the weekend or through Shabbat. Please contact us as soon as you know what weekend(s) you want to visit, so we can make arrangements.
Q: What kinds of activities occur at the Hillel?
A: Hillel, Boston University’s center for Jewish life, is the largest, most exciting, and most versatile organization on campus due to its integral connections to student social, cultural, educational, political, and religious life. Throughout the academic year there are hundreds of programs that are run in the Florence & Chafetz Hillel House and throughout campus. In addition, there are numerous satellite groups that focus on specific interests of students.
Q: Is there anything to do at Hillel if no events or programs are going on?
A: YES!!!!! The Florence & Chafetz Hillel House features several lounges with plasma TVs and game tables, as well as a group practice/study space. There are also several computer stations, as well as wireless internet throughout the whole building. Students can also enjoy the Kosher dining hall with a beautiful view of the Charles River, as well as the Granby Street Café which serves various snacks, sandwiches and beverages.
Q: So, is there Kosher food available at Hillel?
A: The Hillel Dining Hall is located on the third floor of the Florence & Chafetz Hillel House. It features a meat and dairy kitchen that alternate throughout the week. Lunch and dinner are served Monday through Saturday, and it’s the best in town. The Granby Street Café is located on the lobby of the Florence & Chafetz Hillel House and serves various snacks, sandwiches and beverages. Click here to learn more about Hillel Dining.
Q: How are holidays celebrated at Hillel?
A: The student-run Religious Life Council, along with Hillel professional staff plan accordingly for all Jewish holidays. We provide Reform, Conservative and Orthodox services for all major holidays, as well as Shabbat. There are also special holiday and festival meals that students can sign up for.
Q: Are there acts of Anti-Semitism or anti-Israel activity on campus?
A: While there have been isolated incidents in the past, Boston University is a very open and accepting community. Jewish, Muslim and Christian students continually have multi-cultural and interfaith programs. Many are even held at the Florence & Chafetz Hillel House.
Q: Is it easy to study abroad in Israel for a semester or year?
A: It is absolutely possible. Of course this depends upon each students academic course load. Students can learn more about study abroad opportunities through the Boston University International Programs Office.
Q: What’s the deal with the birthright Israel trips I keep hearing about?
A: Birthright Israel is an organization that provides free ten day trips to Israel from 18-26 year olds. Boston University Hillel organizes two campus trips a year (winter and summer breaks). However, there are many more trips with specific interest focuses that students can sign up for. The registration dates change from semester to semester, but can be found at Birth Right Israel. As always, Hillel’s professional staff can answer specific questions about the trip.
General FAQ | Student Life FAQ | Parent FAQ | Shabbat FAQ