Rutgers Hillel Fresh Fest
Fresh Fest is sponsored by the Estate of Leonard Kushner, in memory of his beloved mother, Estelle Kushner.
Start the best four years of your life early! Moving to college is a big deal, but Fresh Fest makes it fun, easy, and totally unforgettable! This early move-in experience is designed for incoming Jewish students at Rutgers, no matter the affiliation, giving you a head start on settling in, making friends, and feeling at home before the semester kicks off.
Best of all? You’ll discover a welcoming, supportive Jewish community ready to help you navigate college life.
Your family is invited too! Have them join us for afternoon early move-in and stay for dinner at Hillel before they head home.
Looking to find a Jewish roommate? First-years should utilize our Class of 2030 Roommate Matcher.
Registration for Fresh Fest is open, and closes at 11:59pm on Friday, July 31st.
So, Why Do Fresh Fest?
Registration for Fresh Fest is open, and closes at 11:59pm on Friday, July 31st.
At Fresh Fest, you'll move in early, skip the chaos, and dive straight into an exciting lineup of activities—think bonfires, movie nights, a campus-wide scavenger hunt, and even a trip! You’ll also receive tons of awesome Hillel swag, enjoy delicious kosher meals, and get insider tips from upperclassmen who’ve been in your shoes.
The full Fresh Fest schedule will be released in early August. Want a preview? View last year's schedule.
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Early Move-In
Move into your dorms the afternoon of Monday, August 24th and get settled on campus. Get acclimated to life on campus and get to know what Jewish life is like on campus before everyone else. -
Make New Jewish Friends
Get a head start on making friends! Many of Fresh Fest’s programs are organized by dorm or major, giving you a leg up on finding “your people.” -
Get to Know Rutgers Hillel
Being a part of Hillel offers countless benefits that enhance your college experience. With exclusive programming, such as Fresh Fest, community service opportunities, and cultural events, you'll enjoy a rich and diverse college experience. Above all, no matter your religious background or practices, Hillel is a place where every kind of Jew feels at home, supported, and connected.
Fresh Fest in Focus
FAQ’s
Learn more about Fresh Fest.
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Does Fresh Fest cost money?
We are able to offer Fresh Fest at the highly subsidized rate of $180.00 per student. If you need financial assistance, please contact freshfest@rutgershillel.org
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What happens at Fresh Fest?
Expect days filled with social events, campus exploration, mentorship, and plenty of fun!
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Is Fresh Fest for me if I’m not religious?
Absolutely! Hillel is open to all Jewish students, regardless of religious observance or background.
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Should I still do Fresh Fest if my roommate isn’t?
Yes! Fresh Fest is all about meeting new friends and making connections beyond just your roommate.
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Can my family attend Fresh Fest?
Yes! Families are invited to help with afternoon early move-in and then join us for dinner at Hillel before heading home.
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I can’t participate in Fresh Fest. Can I still get involved in Hillel?
Yes, of course! Hillel is a place for everyone! We have many options and opportunities to get involved with Hillel, and we look forward to welcoming you into your new Jewish community! If you have any questions or want more info, please fill out our general interest form or contact us at info@rutgershillel.org.
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Where will I sleep?
You’ll move directly into your dorm, so you’ll sleep in your new home on campus!
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What if I’m living at Chabad?
You may need to find alternative housing until Chabad opens—please plan accordingly.
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Can Honors College students participate?
Honors College students and any other students with another early move-in can participate in Fresh Fest at the discounted rate. We will work with their early move-in program to coordinate scheduling.
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How else can I stay involved in Hillel?
Hillel has tons of opportunities beyond Fresh Fest! Join us for countless programs throughout the year.
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I'm an upper-class student. Can I be part of Fresh Fest?
Yes! Upper-class students can apply to be a Fresh Fest Group Leader here.
Join us for Fresh Fest!
Move-in begins the afternoon of Monday, August 24th. Programming continues through Tuesday, August 25th.
Registration for Fresh Fest is open, and closes at 11:59pm on Friday, July 31st.
