Gap Year in Israel, Study Abroad and Cultural Immersion

Eitan is student at George Washington University majoring in History and Political Science. His gap year in Israel in 2006-2007 involved cultural immersion and study at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. He has contributed his story to inspire others to consider the benefits of a gap year before college.

Having supportive parents has been a true gift since I decided to go on Nativ, but most parents have big fears and doubts about gap-years. This is understandable, especially when taking into account the financial burden an extra year’s tuition will place upon families. Had I not taken the time to apply for the numerous scholarships available to gap-year seeking students, I would never have been able to dream about a program like Nativ. An issue such as money should never bar someone from the incredible experience gap year programs offer, an opinion that is shared by many of the incredible organizations that offer scholarships for those in need.

Many falafel and one year later, I can state with certainty that going on Nativ was the best decision I ever made. Gap year programs like Nativ offer room for both growth and relaxation, before jumping back into the hectic life of college and schoolwork. One would be hard-pressed to find someone who felt as if their gap-year didn’t exceed expectations. And after thousands of gap-year program participants, that says quite a lot.

Masa Israel Journey enables thousands of Jewish youth to spend a gap year in Israel in any of over 160 programs, helping them build a life-long relationship with Israel and a firm commitment to Jewish life.