After a week in Israel touring many gap year programs with Masa Israel, I can say that there is an option for everyone to experience Israel before college. Masa Israel Journey offers a diverse array of gap year opportunities, helping young adults explore Israel while gaining valuable skills and experiences. Here’s a look at some of the most popular Masa gap year options.
- Shalom Hartman Institute’s Hevruta Program: For those seeking to deepen their Jewish knowledge, the Hevruta Program at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem offers intensive Jewish learning. Participants explore Jewish texts and modern thought, strengthening their connection to Jewish heritage in an intellectually stimulating environment.
- Young Judea Year Course: A year-long, immersive program, the Young Judea Year Course combines community service, travel, and academic study. Participants volunteer across Israel, take courses on Israeli culture and history, and develop leadership skills, making it an ideal option for those looking to connect deeply with Israeli society.
- Aardvark Israel: The Aardvark Israel program offers a flexible gap year experience in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Participants can choose from volunteering, internships, or academic studies, tailoring their experience to personal interests. Aardvark blends professional development with cultural immersion, allowing participants to explore Israel while gaining valuable skills.
- Israel XP at Bar-Ilan University: The Israel XP program at Bar-Ilan University provides students the opportunity to study at one of Israel’s top institutions while earning academic credits. Participants study Hebrew, Jewish studies, and other subjects, all while experiencing the vibrant culture of Israel through field trips and community engagement.
- Kol Ami Mechina: The Kol Ami Mechina is a pre-army preparatory program for young adults looking to strengthen their Jewish identity while preparing for military service. Based in Jerusalem, the program includes Jewish study, leadership development, and physical preparation for army service.
- ELI Program at Tel Aviv University: The ELI Program at Tel Aviv University offers students the chance to study Hebrew, Israeli culture, and political science. Participants can explore Tel Aviv’s dynamic atmosphere while earning academic credits and engaging in a variety of cultural experiences.
- The Rothberg International School at the Hebrew University: For those interested in higher education, the Rothberg International School offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Jewish studies, Israeli politics, and environmental studies. Students experience world-class education while living in one of the world’s most culturally significant cities—Jerusalem.
- Maccabi Israel Sports XP Program: The Maccabi Israel Sports XP Program is a great fit for students passionate about sports. Participants can train professionally, gain skills in sports management, and volunteer in Israeli communities, all while exploring Israel’s sports culture.
- Reichman University: Formerly IDC Herzliya, Reichman University offers international students a variety of academic programs in fields like business, law, and entrepreneurship. Students combine top-tier education with cultural exploration, making it an ideal program for those interested in academic growth and immersion in Israeli society.
- International School at the University of Haifa: The International School at the University of Haifa offers programs in international relations, peace and conflict management, and Middle Eastern studies. Students study in a diverse, globally minded environment while engaging with the complexities of the region.
- Torah Tech Gap Year Program: A unique program combining Jewish study with technology, the Torah Tech Gap Year Program allows participants to engage in Torah learning while acquiring practical skills in coding and innovation. This program is perfect for those looking to explore both their Jewish identity and career opportunities in the tech world.
These diverse programs through Masa Israel Journey offer participants the opportunity to live, learn, and grow in Israel while gaining unique skills and experiences. Whether through academic study, community service, or professional development, Masa’s gap year programs provide a transformative experience that shapes the future of young adults worldwide. Looking to find out more about one of the programs above? Reach out to Olivia at Oberlin@jewishdetroit.org for more information.
All of these programs and more are eligible for a Get There! Grant