TAU International Spearheads Unique Gap Year Program
Monday, February 25, 2013

TAU and BBYO Beyond partner to offer an unforgettable year for pre-college students

Tel Aviv University and BBYO Beyond have teamed to create a unique gap year program for non-Israeli students. Opening this fall, the new program combines a specially designed academic curriculum with meaningful community service opportunities, offering unparalleled exposure to Israeli history, culture and society. It's a well-rounded experience that adds substance to the participants' time abroad, says Maureen Meyer Adiri, Director of TAU International, providing a "first taste" of college life and emphasizing leadership and development.

In the first half of the year, participants live and study on the TAU campus. The curriculum includes intensive Hebrew language study, a dedicated Israel Studies course covering everything from history to topography, and the opportunity to sit in on classes offered by the TAU International Study Abroad Program. For the second part of the year, designed to help participants make a social impact, students travel throughout the country and complete a community service component in either Jerusalem or Ethiopia.

Students can choose either a five or nine month program, and elect to engage in specialty programming that includes an Israel Defence Forces Basic Training program, Magen David Adom paramedic courses, kibbutz volunteer programs, and activities in cultural fields including culinary, art, and photography. The program also offers optional European trips to Italy, Spain and Poland.

Not only will participants immerse themselves in Israeli culture and make a valuable social contribution, they will also enhance the potency of their college applications at the same time, says Meyer Adiri. "This program is a major boost to the CV of any college-bound student. Such experience is a way to distinguish themselves from their peers, demonstrating independence, international experience and the maturity to take on University level studies."

For many participants, the gap year program will be a first introduction to Israel, and of course, to Tel Aviv University, notes Meyer Adiri, revealing the possibilities that lie outside their home country.  These include TAU's impressive roster of 15 international degree programs at both the Bachelor's and Master's levels.

For more information on TAU International, visit:
http://international.tau.ac.il/

For more information on the TAU and BBYO Beyond Gap Year Program, visit:
http://beyondyear.org/

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