Student Life at Hillel of Silicon Valley

Hillel of Silicon Valley is a vibrant and inclusive Jewish community that brings together students from San Jose State, Santa Clara University, Foothill College, De Anza College, and West Valley College. Hillel is here to support your Jewish journey and provide a welcoming space to connect, learn, and grow.

We offer a diverse array of programs, trips, conferences, and internships designed to enrich your college experience. Whether you’re looking for cultural events, educational opportunities, religious gatherings, or social activities, Hillel has something for everyone. From celebrating Jewish holidays and enjoying free weekly Shabbat dinners to networking events, Israel trips, and social action projects, we strive to create meaningful and engaging experiences for all students.

Hillel of Silicon Valley also supports Jewish campus organizations by supporting weekly club meetings, tabling on campus, and providing leadership development opportunities. Our goal is to empower students to shape their own Jewish experience and build lasting connections with their peers.

Hillel of Silicon Valley is your home for Jewish life on and off campus. But we need YOU to make the community your own. Come be a part of something special!

Welcome Week

Kick off the new academic year with Hillel of Silicon Valley! Our Welcome Week events are designed to introduce students to our vibrant Jewish community and provide a warm, inclusive space to meet new friends. Join us for Bagel Brunches, S’mores Bonfires, and our Welcome Back Shabbat Dinners.

Birthright & Israel Trips/Internships

Explore Israel with Birthright and other immersive travel experiences! Hillel of Silicon Valley connects students to transformative programs, including Birthright Israel, Onward Israel internships, and Masa Israel journeys. Gain firsthand insights into Israeli culture, history, and innovation while building lasting friendships. Scholarships and funding opportunities are available—reach out to us for more information on how to apply!

Jewish Programming

Celebrate Jewish life with engaging programs throughout the year. From weekly Shabbat dinners and holiday celebrations to Lunch & Learns, sessions with rabbis and Jewish educators, and our signature Karin-Dornfest Jewish Learning Fellowship, Hillel provides meaningful experiences that deepen Jewish identity. Many of our programs are student-driven, ensuring that they reflect the interests and passions of our community. Come learn, celebrate, and grow with us!

Israel Events

Stay informed and engaged with our diverse Israel programming, including guest speakers, cultural celebrations, advocacy training, and educational discussions. The Israel Learning Fellowship, which is usually offered in the Spring, features six or or more workshop sessions to help participants understand about the history of Zionism, Israeli political realities, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israel advocacy. Whether you’re interested in Israeli music, film, history, or advocacy, we provide a welcoming space for open dialogue and exploration of Israel’s dynamic society.

Jewish Life

Hillel of Silicon Valley is your home away from home for Jewish life on campus. Whether you’re looking for a place to celebrate the High Holidays, attend a Passover Seder, or participate in weekly Shabbat services, we offer a range of spiritual and cultural experiences. We welcome students from all backgrounds and levels of observance.

Resources

We’re here to support your well-being and success! Hillel provides resources on kosher dining options, mental health services, scholarships, internships, and more. Whether you need academic support, networking opportunities, or guidance on Jewish life on campus, we are here to help.