Students Speak
Hear what UVA students are saying about Chabad at UVA
The relationships are what made it for me
Coming in as a Jefferson Scholar I was looking for something meaningful beyond just academics. This year I really connected with Reuvi and Shani in a real way. It was not just programs it was real relationships real conversations and a place I could just be myself. That is what made Chabad such a big part of my UVA experience
Evan Nied Jefferson Scholar Class of 2025
I am not religious but I still found my Rabbi
As an alumnus and UVA parent I want students to know Chabad is not just for Orthodox Jews. It is for everyone. Rabbi Shlomo and Channa have a warmth and sincerity that makes anyone feel like they belong no matter their background
Joel B Gardner Col 70 Law 74
Don’t leave before dessert
Shabbat dinner is great but the best part is what happens after. Deep convos Jewish debates late night laughs and cake. If you leave early you are missing it
I thought learning Torah was not for me until Cake and Kabbalah
I never went to yeshiva and do not speak Hebrew but somehow it all clicked. It made Jewish learning feel smart interesting and actually relevant and yes there is cake
I almost did not go now I never miss it
I was not sure where to go my first Friday night. I tried Chabad and was honestly blown away. The warmth the people the zero pressure vibe. I thought it would just be dinner but it turned into my Jewish home on campus
I stopped practicing and found my way back
I had not been involved in years and did not think it was for me. But there is no pressure just a welcoming space. Being there helped me reconnect in my own way
Shabbat dinner is my reset button
After a long week this is where I go to reset. Good food good people and a calm space to breathe
It is more than a place it is people
I came once and felt it right away. Real conversations real connection and a place I actually want to be. It is where I go when I need support or just a break