Make your gap year matter with Nativ, USY’s college-prep program for Jewish young adults ready to dive into Israeli life. Choose from academic study or volunteer tracks, travel across the country, and experience independence and community before college. Deeply rooted in Conservative Jewish values, Nativ empowers you to grow as a leader, a thinker, and a global Jew.
Duration: 9 months – September-May
Fall Semester in Jerusalem and Spring Semester in Tel Aviv
The Nativ Track weaves seamlessly ino the Aardvark Israel framework, offering participants the opportunity to earn college credit while exploring their interests through hands-on internships, volunteer placements, and engaging educational programming.
In the fall, students live in Jerusalem, where they engage in meaningful volunteer work and service-based experiences that contribute to the local community. In January, the group moves to Tel Aviv to begin internships and gain professional exposure. Throughout the year, participants also take part in classes, weekly excursions, seminars, and a variety of enriching activities that connect them deeply to Israeli society and culture.
The Nativ Track blends Aardvark Israel’s immersive programming with the vibrant values of Conservative Jewish living, leadership development, and deep engagement with Jewish community life. In this track, participants embark on a transformative journey through a unique blend of experiences:
The Nativ Track is designed for students seeking a deeper connection to Judaism and Israel in a meaningful and lasting way. Participants engage in thoughtful discussions, study Jewish texts, explore contemporary issues, and celebrate Jewish life through Shabbatonim, holidays, and seminars, all in the spirit of Conservative Judaism.
Jewish observance is encouraged, enabling students to integrate Jewish values into their daily lives, strengthen their Jewish identity, and become part of a strong, supportive community where they build lasting friendships as they experience a true sense of belonging.
Nativ offers participants a unique opportunity to live and experience Jewish life in Israel. Each month, participants take part in Shabbatonim, celebrating Shabbat in diverse communities across the country through communal meals, tefillot, and meaningful discussions.
Students also celebrate the full cycle of Jewish holidays. Throughout the year, chagim are marked by shared celebration and reflection, from the joy of Sukkot to the introspection of Yom Kippur. In preparation for the holidays, participants engage in volunteer projects that connect them to different communities and offer deeper insight into local traditions and the unique cultural expressions of each chag.
Nativ is back and better than ever! Starting September 2027, you can spend a full year in Israel with friends, exploring, learning, and growing as a leader in the Conservative/Masorti community.
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