FAQ: Berkeley Hillel Retreats

Frequently Asked Questions: What is this retreat anyway?

 

Q: What’s the point of the Retreats?

A: The retreat is a great introduction to the Jewish community at Cal! Most of the retreat is socially oriented, so you’ll get a chance to meet other new students, as well as a few upperclassmen leaders and staff. It’s also a way to get off the busy campus, and be a little more immersed in nature. Plus, you’ll get to learn about Hillel and think Jewishly a little bit too! (also you get to make new friends and have fun, and what could be better than that??)

Q: Where is the first-year Retreat in Fall 2023?

A: The retreat this year will be at Camp Newman’s retreat center. Nestled in the hills of Santa Rosa, under the shade of the Sonoma redwoods, the Northern California Retreat Center is state-of-the art and immersed in nature. Expect lots of sun and outdoors time!

Q: How do I register? 

A: Click HERE!

Q: How religious is it?

A: Hillel is a pluralistic Jewish institution, which means that at any time you can choose how “religious” you want your experience to be. The explicitly Jewish ritual practice is in the morning, and the experience will include either traditional morning prayer, or different things like a hike, or yoga. Our staff, as well as our students who plan the Retreats, come from a variety of backgrounds and at any given point you can find someone to engage religiously (or non-religiously) in the way you’re looking for.

Q: What are the sleeping arrangements?

A: We will all be sleeping in bunk beds in a few large cabins. We will have a women’s space, men’s space, and an all gender inclusive space. Meeting your housing needs is important to us, so please reach out to us if you’d like to chat about how we can accommodate your needs.

Q: Do I have to have been involved Jewishly before college to come?

A: Definitely not! Our Jewish community is diverse and there will be students from lots of different backgrounds and experiences.