Student Voices

Meet Levi – UVIC Geography Student and Proud Jewish Leader

Name: Levi
School/Major: University of Victoria, BA Geography
Year: 4th

Levi Zadka is in his fourth year at UVic working on his BA in Geography. He says Hillel BC has made a meaningful difference in his campus life by being a safe and welcoming place that is always there for him.

“Shabbat dinners have always been my favorite Hillel events. They bring together so many people and genuinely feel like a family gathering,” Zadka says. “Between the music, singing, food, meaningful conversations and prayers, there’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to connect with others.”

A Hillel intern this year, he appreciated the opportunity to meet with Jewish students one-on-one and take them out for coffee. He says it was especially meaningful because it allowed him to meet new people and build deeper, more personal connections with fellow students on campus.

“My favorite thing about campus life is how active and social it is. There’s always something happening, whether it’s studying with friends, running into people I know, or going to events together,” Zadka added. “Being surrounded by people my age makes it easy to form connections and feel like I’m part of a community rather than just going to classes.”

Meet Sara – UBC Sociology Student and Proud Jewish Advocate

Name: Sara
School/Major: University of British Columbia, Sociology
Year: 2021–2026

For Sara, a Sociology student at UBC, campus life is all about connection, especially the sense of belonging she’s found through Hillel. “Having Hillel has helped me stay connected to my Jewish heritage and given me a safe, supportive space, often even before I realize I need it.”

She’s a familiar face at Hillel and JSA events, from weekly Shabbat dinners to spontaneous chats with Jewish peers between classes. Her involvement in Hillel’s antisemitism workgroup was very impactful, allowing her to express her passion for Jewish advocacy.

Some of Sara’s favorite moments include making a best friend through JLF, enjoying free bagels, and celebrating Greek Shabbat with both Jewish and non-Jewish friends, blending the different communities she’s built on campus.

“Hillel has had a huge impact on my university experience,” she says. “It’s more than a building, it’s a place to feel proud, supported, and connected.”

Thanks to your support, students like Sara have a home for Jewish life on campus.

Meet Igal – UBC Engineering Student and Jewish Campus Leader

Name: Igal

School/Major: UBC, Mechanical Engineering

Year: 3rd Year

For Igal, a third-year Mechanical Engineering student at UBC, Hillel has become much more than just a place on campus, it’s a home away from home.

Originally from Winnipeg, Igal found in Hillel a warm and welcoming Jewish space where he can study, connect with friends, and celebrate Jewish holidays and traditions. In addition to being a dedicated student, Igal is also an active leader in Jewish life on campus. He serves as an executive member of Alpha Epsilon Pi, UBC’s Jewish fraternity, where he helps foster a strong sense of community among Jewish students through events and social activities.

When asked about his favorite Hillel experience, Igal immediately points to the biweekly Shabbat dinners, which he describes as the perfect way to unwind, meet new people, and reconnect with friends at the end of a busy week.

"Hillel has truly shaped my campus experience,” Igal shares. "It’s where I spend my days studying and relaxing, and where I host many of our AEPi events. It’s become an integral part of my life at UBC.”

Thanks to your support, students like Igal have a vibrant, inclusive, and meaningful Jewish community throughout their university years.