Dear Class of 2015,

Hi! My name is Erika Rief, Hillel’s freshmen orientation chair, and guess what? Three years ago at this time, I was in your exact same place. I did not know many people at Emory and did not know how involved I wanted to be in Hillel.

From the moment I stepped onto campus, the student leaders of Hillel instantly welcomed me into their community. By attending Hillel orientation events, I formed a group of friends which still remain my closest friends at Emory. Now, it is my turn to make all of you feel just as comfortable as I did during your first year at Emory Hillel.

No matter what Jewish background you come from, Emory Hillel has a place for everyone. Our groups within Hillel provide religious, social, philanthropic, academic, and community programming. In order to familiarize yourself with the numerous opportunities that Hillel has to offer, make sure you participate in our orientation events which include:

• Move-in Shabbat
• Bagel Brunch
• First Shabbat
• Welcome Back BBQ
• White Water Rafting Trip (with UGA and GaTech)
• High Holiday Services/Programming
• Braves game

Besides our formal activities, Hillel wants to help you acclimate to Emory by introducing you to upperclassmen and other Jewish freshmen. That's why we have FYSH (First Year Students of Hillel). If you sign up to be a "little FYSH," we will match you with a "Big FYSH" who will help you find your way throughout your first months at Emory. Your "Big FYSH" will contact you before school starts to answer any questions and meet up with you periodically once you get to campus.

If you are interested in being match with a "Big FYSH," please contact me with your name, cell number, where you are from, and academic or general interests.

Welcome to Emory! Can’t wait to meet you all at orientation!!

--Erika