Belonging
Where do I fit in the Princeton Jewish community?
You’ll find students from every background creating a shared home where difference is celebrated.
See how belonging comes to life at the CJL.
No two Princeton Jewish students are alike. They bring different backgrounds, passions, perspectives, and ways of connecting to Jewish life. That’s why we go beyond offering programs – we build relationships.
Through weekly study breaks, social activities, one-on-one conversations, and countless informal moments, our staff and student leaders work to ensure every Jewish student feels welcomed, valued, and connected to the CJL community.
The friends I’ve found and the community I’ve been welcomed into at the CJL bring light into my life. Especially during the holidays, the CJL is a place I can go to celebrate and feel surrounded by joy, care, and laughter.
Margalit ‘28
Programs
Campus Engagement Interns (CEIs)
This group of dynamic students, trained by the CJL staff, reach out to first-years and Jewish friends in their social networks via coffee chats and connects them to Jewish life at CJL in ways that are meaningful and relevant to them. These personal interactions help new students feel welcome in the Princeton Jewish community and let them know that someone is there for them.
If you want to be introduced to a CEI or become a future CEI, contact Marni at mblitz@princeton.edu.
Affinity Groups
These student-led groups bring together Jewish students who share a common interest, background or goal. If interested in forming or joining an existing group, contact Rebecca at rgalin@princeton.edu.
Active Groups:
JAI (Jewish Athletes Initiative):
Bringing together Jewish athletes on campus for social, and community service programs.
JAsians:
Bringing together Jewish Asian students to celebrate and explore the intersectionality of their lives through programs, theme Shabbats, study breaks and more.
JLats:
Bringing together Jewish LatinX students to celebrate and explore the intersectionality of their lives through programs, theme Shabbats, study breaks and more.
JGRAD:
Bringing together a diverse group of graduate students from all areas of study at the university to coordinate social events, happy hours, learning opportunities, holiday programs, home hosted Shabbat dinners and much more!
LGBTQ*J:
While there are many LGBTQ groups and Jewish groups on campus, there is one group that brings these two identities together. LGBTQ*J aims to create a welcoming space for LGBTQ students at the CJL. All undergraduate and graduate students are welcome, including non-Jews and allies.
MEJA:
(Princeton’s Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Jews Alliance) celebrates and explores the intersectionality of their lives through programs, theme Shabbats, study breaks and more.
NJR (Nice Jewish Runners):
A group for people who are nice, Jewish and like to run. They meet on Sundays to run together, followed by a breakfast with bagels of course!
PIC (Princeton Israel Community):
Bringing together Israeli students on campus to enjoy camaraderie, socialize and celebrate Israel’s holidays and culture.
Staff Outreach
At the CJL, relationships matter. Our staff connect with students in countless ways, helping them discover their voice, deepen their values, and navigate college life.
Whether it’s a one-on-one over boba, a conversation in the CJL Café, or a staff-hosted coffee break off campus, we’re here to listen, offer advice, celebrate milestones, and support students through both the everyday moments and the big ones. Students can also turn to our rabbis for confidential pastoral care, counseling, and compassionate support throughout their Princeton journey.
Kosher Dining
Princeton’s Mandelbaum Family Dining Pavillion located inside the Center for Jewish life creates a natural gathering place that strengthens community and belonging.
This OU certified kosher dining facilty allows Jewish students to participate fully in campus life without compromising their religious practice. Weekly Shabbat dinners attract hundreds of students each week.