Colleges with a High Jewish Populations?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior looking for a college with a healthy Jewish population, and one that has a great sense of community. Could you tell me about your experiences and which colleges should I consider? Thank you so much!

Hi there! It's fantastic that you're prioritizing a strong Jewish community in your college search. Here's a list of colleges with significant Jewish populations and community resources, of course, individual experiences will vary:

1. Brandeis University: As a historically Jewish university, Brandeis has a significant Jewish population (around 50%). Hillel and Chabad are active on campus, and the university offers a variety of religious, social, and cultural programs to engage with the Jewish community.

2. Yeshiva University: Specifically catering to the Jewish community, Yeshiva offers a dual curriculum in both Jewish and secular studies. With around 95% Jewish students, this university provides a strong community and resources for its students.

3. University of Florida: UF has a vibrant Jewish community, boasting a large student population and a strong network of Hillel, Chabad, and Jewish cultural programs.

4. University of Maryland: With over 20% of its student body identifying as Jewish, UMD offers a robust Hillel and Chabad presence, as well as various Jewish study options.

5. New York University: NYU is located in the heart of NYC, which has an extensive Jewish community. With around 20-30% Jewish students and resources such as the Edgar M. Bronfman Center for Jewish Student Life, NYU provides many opportunities for engagement.

6. Tulane University: Tulane's Jewish population stands at around 30%. Students can engage with Hillel and Chabad, as well as participate in various Jewish studies programs.

7. University of Michigan: UMich has a Jewish population close to 20%, a strong Hillel presence, and many resources available such as the Frankel Center for Judaic Studies.

These are just a few examples of colleges with strong Jewish communities. It's important to research and visit different schools if possible to see where you'll feel most at home. A strong community might mean different things to different students, like wanting a place with kosher dining options, engaging Shabbat services, or vibrant Jewish student groups. Be sure to reach out to the Hillel or Chabad houses at the schools on your list to get a sense of activities and programs offered. Good luck with your search!