Jewish Learning
Fellowship
Jewish Learning Fellowship (JLF)
The Jewish Learning Fellowship (JLF) is an 8-week experiential, conversational seminar for students looking to deepen their understanding of Judaism on their own terms. We’re interested in asking big questions. You know, the big stuff — like Who am I? What communities am I a part of? What is worth committing myself to, and why? And we don’t purport to have any of the big answers.
We're proud to say that we make no claims about the “right” way to practice or not to practice Judaism. Our job is to help you explore the tradition in a safe space and find your own place, on your terms, in Judaism’s Great Conversation.
As a Jewish Learning Fellow, we'll invite you to coffee, spend a Shabbat together, and help you feel connected to next steps after JLF. Fellows are eligible for a scholarship at the end of the program.
JLF Schedule:
There will be multiple cohorts, offered at three different times: Mondays 4:00-5:15pm, Wednesdays 6:30-7:45pm and Thursdays 4:30-5:45pm. On your application, please pick all times that work best for you and you will be placed in one of the four cohorts.
JLF will begin the week of January 30 and will meet for 8 weeks.
Applications for JLF will close on January 24.
If you have questions or would like additional information on JLF please contact Lana Kolchinsky.
The Jewish Learning Fellowship (JLF) applications for Spring 2023 are now closed.
Please contact Lana Kolchinsky for additional information.
Jewish Learning Fellowship 2.0 (JLF 2.0)
For those who have completed JLF, we offer an opportunity to continue the learning experience with JLF 2.0.
Through the 8 sessions of JLF 2.0: Big Israel Questions Home and Homeland you will be able to deepen your understanding of Israel and Judaism on your own terms. We’re interested in asking big questions. You know, the big stuff — like who are my people? What do I value? What is patriotism? And we don’t purport to have any of the big answers.
JLF 2.0 Schedule:
We now offer multiple JLF 2.0 cohorts due to high demand for participation! Two cohort times are now offered on Mondays, 2:30-3:45pm and 4:00-5:15pm. The cohort will begin February 6 and meet for 8 weeks.
Applications for JLF 2.0 will close January 30.
Please note: you must have completed JLF 1.0 before applying for JLF 2.0.
If you have questions or would like additional information on JLF 2.0 please contact Lana Kolchinsky.
Jewish Learning Fellowship FAQs
How is JLF different from other programs?
JLF is run by Hillel International’s Office of Innovation, in partnership with local campuses like UF Hillel. Our educators bring a wide variety of Jewish backgrounds, experiences, and philosophies. Some of them are rabbis. We are also a pluralistic, non-denominational project. We do not believe there is “one right way to be Jewish.”
What do you actually do in JLF?
JLF is an 8-week immersive experience that explores life's big questions, such as, how honest do I have to be in a friendship? How do I explore intimacy in college? Is there a way to disagree productively? How do I make time for balancing work and my own rest? And many more. This program is an opportunity to learn a little, meet new friends, and explore Jewish community on our campus.
When does JLF meet?
We'll meet once a week during the semester for eight weeks. Different options will be available each semester. Please pick the days and times that work best for your schedule.
What do I have to do to earn the scholarship?
To receive the scholarship you must (1) Attend all eight sessions on time and attentively, and (2) Participate in a JLF Shabbat evening experience.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
JLF is open to students currently enrolled as undergraduates at UF. While JLF is a program rooted in Jewish study and in Jewish community, we do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation.
Do I need a certain Jewish background to participate?
No, no background is necessary. JLF is open to students from a wide variety of Jewish backgrounds, expressions, and experiences!
What is the time commitment?
JLF meets once a week, for 8 weeks. Each session 75 minutes in length.
How many fellows are there?
Each seminar will have 20-25 fellows.
How do I apply?
Using the link above! If you would like additional information on JLF, please contact Lana Kolchinsky.