Amid the pandemic, KU Hillel sought out new programming to keep students engaged. Recalling his thoughtful conversations in years prior, KU Hillel’s Rabbi Neal Schuster conceived his now popular “What the Bleep is Going On” program.
“What the Bleep is Going On” meets at 4:30 p.m. every Wednesday on Zoom, and students gather to discuss the latest current events, or whatever is on their minds.
“I wanted to have conversations with students, especially since there is so much to talk about [in the world],” Schuster said. “This created an opportunity for us to have an atmosphere where we can discuss and look at many different viewpoints on a topic.”
Though Schuster begins the program with a few broad topics to discuss, he is always willing to expand the conversation to meet students’ wants and go with the flow of conversation. Because of this, participants have been able to speak their minds on a plethora of topics spanning from the COVID-19 vaccine rollout to the parallels between Taylor Swift and The Beatles.
With each conversation comes a variety of different opinions, all of which people are open about, even if they disagree. Schuster’s emphasis on remaining open-minded has helped guide these conversations away from being an echo chamber, something students were excited to explore. This also has led to interesting revelations, too.
“It is so interesting to hear about the different points of view on the issues, and it allows me to frame the issue in a way I would be unable to if I just read an article on the subject,” KU freshman Josie Safir said.
With students like Safir able to engage openly and frequently throughout the “What the Bleep is Going On” weekly meetings, KU Hillel is able to give students the opportunity to gather safely and share thoughts and ideas.
“What started as a one-off program quickly became a popular weekly event,” said Suzy Sostrin, KU Hillel executive director. “This brings together a diverse group of Hillel students to engage in a new way. We love hearing all about the discussions!”
As “What the Bleep is Going On” continues, Schuster is hoping to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of various opinions. Whether it be about global political conflicts or cancel culture in the United States, Schuster advocates for everyone participating to think outside of their current opinion and hear new perspectives — something that allows for more comfort among the group as a whole.
“It’s a safe place for me to have great debates with a group of people that I know will challenge my views in a judgment-free way, and it has become my favorite Hillel program,” KU senior Ben Novorr said.
