"Most Hillel activities have a point," You go and you learn something or they take you on a retreat and teach you leadership," explains Lev Polinsky '99-'00, a co-chair of the group.

"Men's Group activities tend to be less edifying and more fun," he adds.

Still, the events can often be educational.

Two years ago, the group watched a rabbi kill a live chicken in his driveway, in part to familiarize themselves with Jewish slaughtering laws.

This past spring, the club went on a trip to the zoo; along the way, they learned to distinguish between the kosher and un-kosher caged animals.

While the Men's Group strives to promote a sense of fraternity, it is open to all College undergraduates. Women say they join the group for the activities and often play a critical role in the group's leadership.

Tammy A. Hepps '00, for example, has been involved with the group since its formation two years ago. She is currently the group's treasurer and serves as its liaison to Hillel, primarily explaining bureaucratic procedures to Men's Group officers.