Apply by March 15 for Summer 2012.

How much does the program cost?
Tuition, room, meals, and books will be provided for accepted students through a generous grant from Michael Steinhardt.

When does the program begin and end?
Participants should plan to arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 pm on Sunday, July 29, and should plan to depart the campus by 11:00 am on Sunday, August 5. On Sunday, August 5, we will have an informal closing activity, from 9:00 to 10:30 am, to express our appreciation to each participant and say our goodbyes. Please note that we do not have the facilities or personnel to accommodate early arrivals or late departures.  

Who are the program staff?
Residential Assistants (RAs) live in the dorms and are present at program discussions, meals, and activities throughout the day.  Our trained RAs are recent college graduates, including alumni of the Center’s educational programs.  All are at least 21 years of age. The Program Coordinator and Program Director supervise the RAs and are closely involved with student activities throughout the week. They are accessible to students who have questions or concerns.

Where do participants stay?
Participants will be housed in Hampshire College dormitories to give them a taste of college life. They will live in single-sex suites, with single bedrooms and shared bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas. 

Are there off-campus activities?
Great Jewish Books includes field trips and recreational activities in the Amherst area, off the Hampshire College campus, with transportation provided by program staff.  In addition, participants are permitted to leave the campus during limited free-time periods.  Before leaving, they must tell a staff member where they are going, and they must check in with staff when they return.

How do we keep in touch?
To ask general questions or to leave a message during regular business hours, please call our office weekdays between 9 am and 5 pm Eastern time: (413) 256-4900 ext. 142. Phone numbers for urgent calls during non-business hours will be provided at the start of the program. Participants are allowed to bring cell phones or calling cards, but cell phones must be turned off during all program activities.

Should participants bring valuables?
Great Jewish Books, the Yiddish Book Center, and Hampshire College cannot be responsible for lost or damaged personal possessions. We recommend that no valuables, such as jewelry, handheld electronics, or music players, be brought to campus. 

Do participants need spending money?
You will not need any money while at the program.  However, you may want to bring a small amount of money for buying souvenirs or snacks.

Is medical care available?
In case of emergency, the nearest medical facility is the University of Massachusetts infirmary, which is just a few minutes away and is open from 8:00 am to midnight (413-577-5000). The nearest hospital is Cooley-Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, Massachusetts, less than half an hour away (413-582-2000). Both facilities take most forms of insurance. All students must have valid health insurance coverage during the program.

What about security?
No one can enter the Hampshire dormitories without a key. Hampshire Campus Police are active and present 24/7 throughout the summer.  Their phone number is: 413-559-5424 (from a campus phone dial x 1-911 or x 5555; both will connect to dispatch). Students should bring any concerns they have about security to the attention of the program staff.

Where will participants eat?
Most meals will be eaten at the Hampshire College dining hall. The college dining services offer a wide selection of nutritious foods and beverages, including vegetarian options, and can accommodate some special dietary needs. Participating students should let us know in advance about any food allergies or special dietary needs.

Does the program provide kosher food?
While the dining services do not serve kosher food, we will provide alternative meals for kosher students throughout the program. Students should let us know ahead of time if they would like kosher meals.

Will students be able to observe Shabbos?
Great Jewish Books is respectful of individuals’ Sabbath observance, and time will be provided for students to daven. There is, however, no shul within walking distance of the Yiddish Book Center. Participants should be aware that some program staff and participants—including their suite-mates in the dormitory—may engage in activities such as writing, using electricity, playing musical instruments, etc., during Shabbos.

Are laundry facilities available?
We ask that attendees pack enough clothes for the whole week.  For participants needing to do laundry, facilities are available in the dormitory.

Is advance reading required?
Great Jewish Books will supply all reading materials during the course of the program. No advance reading is required.