• What is the mission of Hillel of Metro Detroit?

    Hillel of Metro Detroit (HMD) is the community’s foremost organization for engaging local Jewish undergraduate and graduate students, ages 18-29. HMD enriches Jewish identity, furthers Jewish journeys, and inspires involvement in the community.

  • What does HMD offer?

    HMD provides a wide range of programs for college students and young adults, from social to social action, Jewish education to combating antisemitism, Israel trips to Shabbat dinners. Some programs are held on campus and others at central community locations. You can meet other Jews, make friends, take advantage of leadership opportunities, or just hang out. You make HMD what it is – so get involved today!

  • What schools does HMD Serve?

    HMD has a visible and active presence on 6 campuses around Metro Detroit, but all local college students are welcome to join us for any program, event, or learning opportunity.

  • How do I get in touch with the folks at HMD?

    While HMD has a presence on the 6 campuses we serve, our main office is located on the Wayne State University campus. We are located on the 6th floor of the Student Center Building. Students can be found hanging out in our lounge with a big screen TV or in the library on one of our computers. Feel free to stop by!

    Hillel of Metro Detroit

    5221 Gullen Mall
    Student Center Building, Suite 667
    Wayne State University
    Detroit, MI  48202

    313-577-3459  • Fax:  313-577-3461

  • What time is the HMD office at Wayne State open?

    Throughout the year, the Hillel of Metro Detroit (HMD) office in the Wayne State University Student Center is open:

    Monday – Thursday | 9:00 AM to 6:00* PM
    Friday | 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM

    *During the summer session, the HMD office closes Monday – Thursday at 4:30 PM.

    There are some variations in accordance with Jewish or Federal Holidays. Please contact the HMD office for more details.

  • How many Jews are there on each of the campuses HMD serves?

    Because of federal privacy laws, schools do not release this information.  However, you can find our best approximation of Jewish student numbers, along with other information at Hillel’s College Guide.

  • Can I make a donation to HMD?

    Of course!  Over half of HMD’s operating budget comes from the generosity of our community members.  Please click here for more information and the opportunity to donate on-line now.

  • Is there a membership fee?

    Everyone belongs at HMD! There are no membership fees or annual dues. Some of our events charge minimal fees to cover costs; others are free. Events are open to college students and young adults.

  • How do I find an internship at a Jewish organization?

    Each year, Jewish college students are eligible to gain paid summer work experience in the metro Detroit Jewish community through JOIN (Jeanette & Oscar Cook Jewish Occupational Intern Program). Students work closely with professionals in human services, marketing, program planning, research and other key areas of one of the participating organizations. Contact JOIN 2026 Application – Gesher Human Services or astone@geshermi.org.

  • How do I get a scholarship to go to Israel?

    If you are Jewish, 18-26 years old, and have not been on an organized peer trip to Israel, contact our HMD office about a FREE 10-day Birthright Israel experience.

    Ask any young person who’s been to Israel: the experience can be transforming. With the goal to add incentive for more young people to go to or return to Israel, and to help defray the cost of travel, the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit has established Get There! Federation’s Teen & Young Adult Travel Fund, with generous gifts from the Samuel & Jean Frankel Heritage Foundation Israel Youth Travel Fund, and the Ben Teitel Israel & Overseas Teen Travel Fund.

    To be eligible for grants, applicants must be Jewish residents of metro Detroit between 13 and 28 years old and participating in a program for 12 months or less. Please note applicant and program eligibility criteria in the guidelines. Some restrictions apply. Check it out!

  • Are there scholarships and tuition assistance available for Jewish students?

    Hebrew Free Loan’s education loans can help cover college expenses, the costs for professional courses, training programs, and study abroad opportunities. Monthly payments begin the month after the funds are released. Hillel of Metro Detroit can help students navigate opportunities like these and stay informed about resources that support their academic goals.  

    Hillel of Metro Detroit offers the Direnfeld Family Scholarship each year. This $500 scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student currently enrolled in a metropolitan Detroit university on the basis of academic strength, need, service to the community, and HMD involvement. Contact our staff for details on this year’s deadline.

    In addition, some schools and programs offer special scholarships for Jewish students. Contact your school to see if one is available.

  • How do I find out more about Judaism?

    There are many resources to find out more about Judaism, offering a wide range of perspectives. Feel free to contact our staff for guidance, or one of the rabbis at synagogues in the Detroit community.

  • I am applying to one of your schools - Can I visit HMD?

    We would love to meet with you! If you are applying to Wayne State University, check out our location and office hours listed above. Feel free to drop in, although it is better if you call first and schedule an appointment, so we can make sure our program staff is available. Our office can be reached at (313) 577-3459.

    While we spend time on our other campuses, the hours and locations are flexible, so it is best if you call us to schedule a time to meet.

  • My professor is giving an exam on a Jewish holiday - what can I do?

    Each university we serve has a different protocol to address this situation. All of them suggest starting with speaking to the professor. If that does not help, go to the department chair, Dean, or University Ombudsman. But you don’t need to do this without our support. Contact the HMD staff  and we will assist you.