Applications for Nativ 42 (2022-2023) school year are now open – Apply today!
Nativ, USCJ’s gap year program for Jewish high school graduates, is dedicated to creating and inspiring the Conservative Jewish leaders of tomorrow. Nativ, which means “path” in Hebrew, provides a unique opportunity to explore new directions on the journey to becoming a Jewish adult.
From September to May, Nativ participants are immersed in the rich and diverse society of Israel, exploring the land and enjoying a vibrant Conservative Jewish lifestyle.
Living in Israel is like no other Jewish experience because the society itself is imbued with Jewish life and spirit. Within this inspiring setting, Nativ functions as a vibrant and committed Conservative Jewish community. In the kehilla kedosha (holy community) of Nativ, Jewish learning opportunities abound and Jewish observance is expected. Participation in daily tefillot (prayers) and Shabbat observance are integral parts of the Nativ Jewish living experience. At least once a month, Nativ holds a group Shabbat, during which the entire group enjoys meals, services, and programming together.
Nativ prides itself on being an outstanding leadership training program. Leadership seminars take place throughout the year to cultivate effective Jewish leaders who will share their enthusiasm and experience with their home communities and college campuses. Through interactive and innovative activities all over Israel, Nativers work toward their potential as Jewish leaders and educators. This leadership training arms the Nativers with invaluable tools for success in college and beyond.
Throughout the year, Nativ emphasizes learning the historical relevance and Jewish significance of various locations in Israel. One of the objectives of the program is for the participants to return home with a deeper knowledge and understanding of the land of Israel as well as the culture. In addition to many day trips, Nativers participate in three major tiyulim (hiking trips). They explore the Galilee, Golan Heights, Beit Shean Valley, and Carmel; the Judean Desert; and the Negev, including a visit to Eilat. Special experiences include canoeing on the Jordan River, hiking, and a nature survival seminar.
“During my year on Nativ I met some of the best friends that I will ever have. We spent our second semester in Yerucham volunteering, hiking, camping, cleaning, cooking, and having the time of our lives. Without Nativ, I wouldn’t be the person that I am today.”
— Daniel Warshawsky“I absolutely loved being able to study at the Conservative Yeshiva for the first semester of my time on Nativ. I was able to bond with 15 other Nativers, as well as meet other people who were spending a year in Israel studying for various reasons. Being able to learn Jewish text with people of all ages and stages in life was truly unforgettable.”
— Eliana Horwitz“Nativ allowed me to see Israel from a local’s perspective and truly engage with Israel in ways that no other gap year opportunity provides… Nativ was my opportunity to gain independence both socially and Jewishly that better prepared me to enter college the following year.”
— Josh Ull“Nativ was the only time in my life that I was able to stop, look around, and figure out what was really important to me. We don’t get many opportunities like that in life, so thank god I had that for my time on Nativ.”
— Elan Keshen“While on Nativ I found myself as a person within my group of friends. Became confident in who I was and came out of my shell as I found my voice in a crowd. This is how Nativ College Leadership Program in Israel has impacted my life. It gave me a chance to be myself while learning leadership skills and qualities I still use today.”
— Corey Bass, Nativ 27
The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
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