Conservative Jewish college students in the 1980s sought practical, experiential connections to Judaism rather than theoretical discourse - a finding that emerged from analyzing OMETZ, the Conservative movement's pioneering college outreach initiative. When OMETZ launched in 1981, it filled a critical gap in Jewish campus programming by putting students themselves at the helm of religious and cultural engagement. Through examination of program data from 1984-1986, focusing on Shabbatonim (weekend programs) and the Campus Representative program, clear patterns emerged in how students shaped their Jewish experiences. Data collected from 22 Shabbatonim in 1984-85 and 29 in 1985-86, along with programming choices made by 18 Campus Representatives across 15 campuses, revealed a marked evolution in student interests. While initial programming centered on broad ethical topics like interpersonal relations and social justice, by the second year students gravitated toward more specifically Jewish concerns, particularly Conservative and American Jewish identity. The research demonstrates that OMETZ's success stemmed from its student-centered approach, allowing undergraduates to determine programming content while harnessing their energy in program development. These findings highlight how Conservative Jewish college students maintained strong connections to Judaism through practical tools that provided meaning, strengthened community, and clarified identity.