Navigating my Jewish identity on a college campus & how I stay comfortable.

One year ago, I thought that my Jewish community at college would resemble a big room of Ashkenazim from the Upper East Side of Manhattan somewhere in the rural northeast or Midwest. Tomorrow, one year later, I will instead be riding my pastel beach cruiser through warm air to Isla Vista Chabad before a night of band shows by the beach. 

I have always had a sturdy and lively Jewish identity, always having pride and loving every aspect of Jewish culture and spirituality, so I never thought that the Jewish community at a college would be a large deciding factor in choosing where I would spend my undergraduate years. When choosing between a 2,700-person liberal arts school in Vermont and UCSB, I thought that the considerably larger number of Jews here at UCSB would solely provide the comfort of knowing that there are Jews. I have been continuously proven wrong each time I step into Chabad, Hillel, or even an AEPI party. The Jewish community here truly cares about one another and already feels like a family.

There is so much depth to Jewish identity, but it seems that this past year Israel and Zionism have dominated mine along with many people. Though more than a year has passed since October 7th, and I am sure there was more of a need to mourn and pray together, there is still an irreplaceable comfort that comes from being surrounded by Jews who care for Israel as I do. I felt that comfort most this October 7th at our vigil – organized and led by students – where shoulders were cried on and candles were lit. 

I have also found that a surprising number of non-Jews are excited to come to Hillel or Chabad with their Jewish friends—whether to attend a weekday event, Shabbat, or a holiday(Simcha Torah would be the best choice for a first time). That curiosity, excitement, and love from outside of the Jewish community that I have experienced have further assured me that this school has not succumbed to the type of antisemitism and ignorance that drove me away from the small liberal arts schools. 

I soon learned that there truly are many people in this community I can go to with any questions or concerns ranging from getting a babysitting job to advice on my major. No matter the stress of midterms, finals, or missing home on the opposite side of the country, there are always open arms in Isla Vista - and with some delicious free food!

-Dahlia Gilinsky