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.
“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“Nativ not only gave me the chance to build relationships with Judaism and my friends, it gave me the opportunity to build a lasting relationship with the country that I love.”
— Adam Bender“Nativ – Secret alleys, authentic cuisine, invigorating davening – Friends, Family, Home.”
— Josh Ull“Nativ 32 grounded my dreams in reality. It opened my eyes to the possibilities of my future, and reaffirmed in my mind that working in the Jewish world was not only something that I want to do, but that it is my destiny. I learned that the best teachers are not necessarily the ones who have an official certification, but are those who are passionate about what they are teaching, and are invested in the future.”
— JoHo“Why Nativ? Nativ gave me friends for a life time, gave me direction on what kind of person I want to be and what I want to do, and two years after nativ that is proven because today I sat with a friend from nativ eating ice cream on an army base while we both serve in the IDF.”
— Ethan Padnos
The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
3080 Broadway, Suite B208
New York, NY 10027
Sponsored by JAFI and "MASA", The Project for Long Term Programs of the Government of Israel and the Jewish Agency of Israel.
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