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As an alumni, there are many things I wish I could have done differently during my four years at Lehigh. "I should have been more involved in that organization. Why didn't I hang out with a another crowd? Maybe I should have spent more/less time studying" are all thoughts that have run through my mind countless times.

Despite these doubts, the one part of my college life that I wouldn't change (and many times wish I could relive) is my time spent at Chabad. From the homemade meals to the rousing conversations to Rabbi Zalman's inspirational speeches, there is never a dull moment at Evans Street. From the moment you walk in, taken aback by the fragrance of matzah ball soup and Dit's famous sesame noodles, you feel right at home, a feeling sometimes hard to find miles away from your actual home.

I could give details about each event at the Chabad house, but that would be missing the point entirely. It's not about the costumes worn at purim, or the specific conversation around the Shabbos table, or even the array of food served at each evant. It's about a home away from home, an oasis in the college desert. It's about the passion you take with you upon walking out the door, knowing that you were just a part of something very special.

This is why, almost a year after leaving Lehigh, my involvement in Chabad remains one of the only aspects of which I wouldn't change a thing.

"Like most alumni, I look back smilingly at my four years at Lehigh. One aspect of my experience that stands out is my time spent at Chabad. Rabbi Zalman, his wife Dit, and the students, create an environment that ignites spirituality, infuses it with tradition, and makes you feel welcome to have a raging good time; and that we did. As somewhat of a posh lounge for Jewish students to meet and greet, the Chabad house exemplifies Zalman's motto of "all pleasure - no pressure".

From softball games to philosophical discussions, from backyard cookouts to elegant Shabbat dinners and sommelier-directed wine tastings, my entire experience at Chabad was full of fun and meaningful times with down to earth people.

To anyone who cares to enrich their time at Lehigh; spiritually, socially, or both, I suggest walking over one Friday night- just tell the bouncer that you're on the list."

"I count my time spent at Rabbi Zalman's home to be some of my best memories at Lehigh. Friday nights were a chance to decompress after a long week, and to explore undiscovered aspects of spirituality and Jewish life - all over a *fantastic* multi-course meal (thanks Dit!) while surrounded by friends.

Fridays were more than just an opportunity to share in the rich tradition of Shabbat; they were a time to delve into the deeper questions of life that tend to get pushed aside in deference to day-to-day chores and responsibilities, all under the guidance of the sage Rabbi Zalman. It's truly an experience that everyone should try while at Lehigh!"

It doesn’t matter if you don’t keep kosher, say all the wrong words to 90% of the prayers, or have minimal knowledge about Jewish custom or Torah; Chabad at Lehigh evokes an unparalleled sense of comfort, community and family that simply cannot be found in any other collegiate organization.

Dit and Zalman have created a place that is welcoming of everyone that attracts and accepts differing viewpoints, ideologies, and traditions. At Chabad, I interacted with individuals I may never have otherwise met, and whether it was over home cooked Shabbat dinners, holidays that felt like home, or Dit’s ladies’ night mid week sessions, I learned something new about Judaism, philosophy, or the world each time.

Each gathering was filled with philosophical discussion and differing opinions, yet I was never afraid to share even a controversial thought.

Everyone is open and nonjudgmental, patient, and eager to teach you something new.

At college Chabad became my second family, a place where even as an alumnus, I know that I can return at any moment. There is an indescribable bond shared between the people with whom I share my Chabad experience; many of us grew personally and spiritually in our short time there, and I cannot convey my appreciation enough for the support, trust, and comfort Chabad offered me throughout my senior year.