Frequently Asked Questions
Q: This doesn't seem like Chabad - isn't Chabad supposed to be free and welcoming to all? Why is there a cost for this program? A: Absolutely! Being welcoming to all has been a core value at Chabad of Brandeis since 2001, and it only grows stronger each year. At the same time, there are different types of Chabad organizations. Some focus on services - like hospitality for travelers (which require fees) or community religious services (which are free but hope for donations). Others, like Chabad Day Schools, Pre-Schools, and Hebrew Schools, are education-focused organizations that require fees for participation.
Chabad Brandeis 360° follows this education-focused model, offering comprehensive personal development alongside Jewish learning. Since students are already in college to learn and grow, this becomes a natural extension of their educational experience.
This specialized experience requires family partnership to cover costs. While a college campus organization like this is the first of its kind and may be hard to conceptualize, it follows the same organizational approach as other Chabad educational institutions.
Most importantly, financial support ensures that no student is denied this opportunity due to financial constraints.
Q: How are participants selected? A: We're looking for students who are interested in personal growth and open to engaging with the reflection and learning process. During our Zoom conversation, we'll explore your interests, what draws you to the program, and how it might fit into your college experience. It's really about finding a good mutual fit rather than strict requirements.
Q: How does the scholarship process work? A: We approach scholarships through a personal conversation. We'll sit down with you and your family to understand your interest in the program and discuss what works financially for your situation. If a family conversation isn't possible, we're happy to work directly with the student to understand their circumstances. Our goal is always to find a way to make this experience accessible.
Q: What's the time commitment? A: There's no strict time commitment with specific hours. We understand that college life is busy and unpredictable. Our expectation is simply that participants join and engage in these opportunities to the best of their ability, showing up authentically for themselves and the Chabad Brandeis 360° community. We trust that students who choose this experience are genuinely committed to their own growth.
Q: What if a student is only seeking to have a Shabbat dinner and hang out with other Jewish students - what should they do? A: For students seeking regular weekly Shabbat dinners without the learning component, there are other on-campus and off-campus options available.
Q: Do first-semester students need to join Chabad Brandeis 360° to attend Shabbat dinners? A: Not at all! First-semester students are always welcome at Shabbat dinners without needing to participate in the full 360° program. Chabad Brandeis 360° is designed for students beyond their first semester in college, giving first-semester students time to adjust to college life first.
Q: If a participating student decides to leave Chabad Brandeis 360°, will they be refunded? A: While we would love to learn more about their decision, yes, they will be refunded for the remainder of the semester or year.
Q: Can I participate if I'm not Jewish? A: Chabad Brandeis 360° is designed specifically for Jewish students exploring their identity and growth within a Jewish framework. If you're not Jewish but are drawn to this experience, we'd love to have a conversation with you to learn more about your interests and see how we might support your journey.
Have Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Chanie at chanie@chabadbrandeis.org or Peretz at peretz@chabadbrandeis.org.