KU Hillel began its annual tradition, First Year Fries, after a debate over the best French fries in Lawrence.
Each week of the program, KU Hillel takes freshmen students around the city to try various restaurants’ French fries and socialize with each other.
During the pandemic, First Year Fries adjusted while still providing social time for new students. For safety, French fries from different Lawrence restaurants were brought into KU Hillel for students to enjoy, taking note of their favorite types to crown a winner. This year, KU Hillel was back in person for First Year Fries.
“Creating exciting social programs for all of our students helps Jewish students connect to each other and their Judaism. For first-year students, this helps them adjust to college and build a support network,” said Suzy Sostrin, executive director of KU Hillel.
KU Hillel brought back First Year Fries for the Class of 2026 this fall, starting with the Burger Stand in downtown Lawrence. Each week, students meet at Hillel and head out to try fries together.
“Not only have I gotten to know my peers better, but I have also formed connections with the staff at KU Hillel, and it is so clear that they truly care about the students,” said Evyn Gadd, a KU freshman who regularly attends First Year Fries.
Meredith Goldstein came to KU Hillel this semester as a freshman and has since made friends through events such as First Year Fries.
“First Year Fries helped me feel much more connected when going to full-group Hillel events because there were many more familiar faces,” Goldstein said. “Because I have formed so many great relationships with other freshmen, I have definitely found my group in Hillel.”
Freshman Alexa Schwartz said First Year Fries helped her create connections with others going through the same experiences of college with her.
“Establishing bonds while enjoying yummy French fries has given me something to look forward to each week,” Schwartz said. “I also love getting the opportunity to see what is outside of campus and explore the great city of Lawrence.”
