MAJOR
What they run
1-on-1's Sit down one-on-one with Rabbi Meister — a dynamic educator who gets where you’re coming from. Whether you're curious about Jewish wisdom, navigating big life decisions, or just want a deeper conversation than your philosophy class, this is your space to think out loud and explore what really matters. Coffee optional. Good conversation guaranteed. • Flexible Scheduling • Topics You Choose • Zero Prior Knowledge Required
Group Discussions Tired of surface-level conversations? Want to connect with other students who are also asking big questions about life, purpose, identity, and Judaism? Join weekly group discussions led by engaging educators who create a welcoming, open space for honest conversation. No lectures, no fluff — just thoughtful dialogue, real-world relevance, and a chance to hear different perspectives while exploring timeless Jewish ideas. • No background needed • Open questions welcome • Snacks included
Events From cozy Shabbat dinners and holiday celebrations to chill bonfires, game nights, and deep convos over good food — our Milwaukee events bring Jewish life to real life . It’s where college students connect, celebrate, and grow together in a laid-back, meaningful way. Whether you're exploring your heritage or just here for the vibes, there’s always something going on — and always room for you. Relaxed. Relevant. Really fun.
Internships Looking to get ahead without selling your soul? We connect Jewish college students with real internship opportunities , mentorship , and networking events that open doors — in Milwaukee and beyond. Whether you're into business, tech, healthcare, nonprofits, or the arts, we’ll help you land hands-on experience that builds your resume and your confidence. You’ll also meet successful Jewish professionals who are eager to share insight, advice, and maybe even job leads. • Local internships • Career-building events • Meaningful mentorship
Shabbos Step out of the rush and into something real. Our Shabbos experiences and Shabbatons give you a chance to unplug, connect, and enjoy meaningful moments with great people and delicious homemade food. Whether it’s an intimate Friday night dinner, a full Shabbaton weekend, or a spontaneous gathering around the table — you’ll find warmth, wisdom, and a sense of belonging. No expectations. Just good vibes, deep conversations, and a taste of what Shabbos is really about. • Home-cooked meals • Welcoming community • Something that stays with you
Trips Sometimes the best way to grow is to go . Our trips take you beyond the classroom and out into unforgettable experiences — whether it’s a weekend retreat in nature, a road trip with friends, or a journey to Israel that changes everything. These aren’t just getaways — they’re opportunities to explore your identity, build real friendships, and see the world (and yourself) with fresh eyes. Pack a bag. Bring your curiosity. We’ll take care of the rest. • Adventure • Connection • Meaning
Shabbos
“One of the best experiences I get from MAJOR Shabbatons is hearing inspiring ideas from Rabbi Meister and other speakers that I’m able to take with me and use in my day-to-day life. Often, I leave the Shabbatons feeling more inspired to live a meaningful life thanks to ideas I learn from them. Plus, having a break from work and school allows me to refocus on being closer to Hashem (G-d).” - Kaylee
What's a Shabbaton? A Shabbaton is an opportunity to experience a Shabbat with a large group of your peers. It typically includes special programming and large, fun meals.
What’s the difference between a Shabbat and a Shabbaton? Shabbat happens every week. But a Shabbaton has much more fun and activities planned!
Do I need to know how to read Hebrew? No. Even if your Hebrew is non-existent, you’ll be fine.
What should I wear? Shabbat is a special day, and our clothes should reflect that specialness. Guys generally wear dress pants, a button down shirt, a jacket or sweater. Some even wear a suit. But you can wear whatever you want… no shorts please.
Girls should wear a skirt that covers their knees and a shirt that covers their chest up to the collarbone and elbows and everything in between.
Shabbat is a special day, and by dressing better than usual, you and those around you will be able to feel the mood of the special occasion
What should I bring? Bring sleeping clothes and clothes for the next day. Bring any medications you may need. All food is provided on the Shabbaton. You can also ask us for anything you may have forgotten. A Kipah, if you want to wear one. MAJOR has complimentary Kipahs, too!
What is on
Hear & share perspectives of how to live life more effectively, using the Jewish perspective @ 11:00am and 7:00pm
With one-on-one lessons , you can find ways to tap into the Torah that apply to your modern life. You do self actualization using the Torah's perspective. And you learn how great you really are!
From chill cookouts to meaningful holiday celebrations, these events are your chance to enjoy good food, meet great people, and connect with Jewish moments in a fun, relaxed setting. Whether it’s lighting a menorah, backyard BBQs, or just a chill evening—we’d love to see you there.
Experience an unforgettable Shabbaton with good food, meaningful conversations, and real community. Whether you're new to Shabbat or grew up with it, come recharge, connect, and explore what Judaism means to you—no pressure, just good vibes. Join us any weekend you’re free.
Asarah B’Tevet marks the beginning of the end—Jerusalem under siege—and asks us to reflect on what’s still broken today.
Chanukah is about courage, light, and identity—eight nights of candles, culture, and connection during the darkest days of the year.
The holidays wind down with music, dancing, and one last chance to celebrate—just you, your community, and the Torah.
Sukkot is about stepping outside, sharing meals in a hut, and reconnecting with the bigger picture, community, and the bigger picture.
Getting there
While sitting on the floor listening to his son’s new toy, Rabbi Meister shares a parenting insight from Maimonides: rewards work better than fights. A little positive reinforcement can go a long way—and it might just save everyone a lot of stress (and therapy).
After saying goodbye to family at the airport, Rabbi Meister reflects on the power of Torah in shaping strong, healthy relationships. Through its timeless wisdom and practical guidance, the Torah helps us grow closer to family, friends, and community—one meaningful interaction at a time.
Rabbi Meister reflects on a Torah-based approach to parenting: don’t try to “break” a child’s habits or personality—work with them. By understanding who they are, we help them grow into the fullest version of themselves.
Watching a duckling hatch becomes a powerful metaphor for personal growth. Sometimes the struggles we face aren’t setbacks—they’re necessary challenges that build the strength we need for the future. What feels like cruelty might just be the kindness we didn’t recognize.
Even after receiving rabbinical ordination, this speaker keeps returning to yeshiva each week to learn more. Why? Because Torah learning never ends. Every generation is connected through teachers and students—all the way back to Moses—and there's always more wisdom to uncover.
Being a Jewish teacher isn’t just a job—it’s a link in a sacred chain. This reflection highlights the timeless privilege of passing down Jewish wisdom from generation to generation.
Jewish history is filled with ups and downs, but our purpose remains the same: be the best Jews we can be. Whether facing persecution or assimilation, we carry an ancient legacy forward—one mitzvah, one generation, and one choice at a time.
When Jews are attacked, it’s more than politics—it’s a reminder of deep-rooted hatred. In painful times, Judaism teaches that offering encouragement uplifts both the giver and the receiver. Even amidst grief, we find strength through unity, compassion, and faith.
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