First Year Students

Hillel’s Early Move-In Program

Each Fall we are lucky to access a limited number of spots from the University to be able to offer a special move-in program for incoming students. Our Program offers opportunities to learn about campus life and Hillel, meet other new freshmen, ask questions and gain insight from seasoned sophomores and upperclassmen leaders, and find community well before the first day of classes. Interested students can pre-register for the 2027 Early Move-In Program now!

FYSH Programming

FreshConnect Fellows are a dedicated group of students committed to supporting freshmen during their first year at Michigan. Throughout the first semester and specifically the first month of school, the FreshConnect fellows will be offering a variety of programs specifically for freshmen through our First Year Students of Hillel (FYSH) programming. Please join the Michigan Hillel Class of 2030 WhatsApp Group, fill out the Student Info Form, and follow us on Instagram (@MichiganHillel) to stay up to date on these events and other freshman-specific happenings. 

Jewish Learning Classes

The Jewish Learning we do at Michigan Hillel is unlike any Jewish learning you have done before! We offer multiple short-term classes on different topics, and then we give you a stipend to learn. There are classes ranging from 4 to 8 weeks, and we explore Israeli cuisine, different theories of Zionism, Talmud (ancient Jewish text), prayer, and so much more. Each class focuses on something relevant to navigating college life and what Judaism (and you, and your peers!) have to say about them.

Taking part in these classes is a great way to make friends, explore Judaism, and enjoy a free dinner throughout the year. This opportunity is open to anyone from any Jewish background or level of experience with Jewish learning. If you are looking for a weekly opportunity to get involved and find community then this is the opportunity for you!

This term, our classes are:

• Many Tables, One Israel (Taught by Shay and Denae)
  • This six-part series explores how ethnic sub-populations in Israel navigate “being Israeli” along with their unique identities, cultural traditions, and historical narratives.
  • Mondays: Oct 12, Oct 26, Nov 2, Nov 9, Nov 16 (Plus one Friday, tbd)
  • Stipend: $120
• Beyond Labels: Zionisms (Taught by Elyssa and Lital)
  • This four-part series aims to help you thoughtfully explore a range of Jewish perspectives on Zionism, enhancing your self-understanding as you navigate campus, friendships, social media, and beyond. Michigan Hillel invites you into an explorative conversation, without feeling judged, vilified, or put into a box. We are creating a space where you can expand your learning and explore your questions, without losing sense of self and connection to community. 
  • Mondays: Oct 26, Nov 2, Nov 9, and Nov 16
  • Stipend: $80
• Shabbat Hosting Workshop (Taught by Rav Lisa)
  • Join Rav Lisa in the Hillel Program Kitchen for this hands-on cooking workshop that includes exploration of Jewish texts and ideas around hosting. Ideal for new hosts and those who would like to deepen their relationship to Shabbat through the lens of welcoming guests. 
  • Tuesdays: Oct 27, Nov 3, Nov 10, and Nov 17
  • Stipend: $80

Big FYSH/Little FYSH Mentor Matching

A Hillel mentor or ‘Big FYSH’ is an amazing resource whether you are looking for an upperclassman to answer all your burning questions or simply want another familiar face to say hi to around campus. Whether you are looking to break into Jewish community on campus or expand your current network, we’ve got you covered. Students matched can expect free coffee or lunch dates with their mentor, a resource to ask any and all questions, and a new friend to join at Hillel events. All first year students who apply will be matched. If you are interested in being matched with a FYSH mentor please fill out the following form.