Things To Consider
Things To Consider
There’s a lot to think about when it comes to picking which program to apply to, and which to commit to. None of the things mentioned below are necessarily more important than the other- it’s your job to create a priority list catered to what you want to get out of the year. For example, if you are looking for a place where you could learn about the foundational principles of Jewish beliefs, going to a program in Bnei Brak would probably not be the best fit for you. Here’s a list of things to think about:
Location
Location means a lot. It will dictate how early and late you can leave to catch a bus, especially if the only way back to your Seminary is through the Tachana Mirkazit (central bus station). If you want to go to Ben Yehuda on a Saturday night, but have to go from and to Gush, it's a lot of trips and you'll have to make it before the last bus. The Old City is incredibly special, but is more expensive if you wanted to buy any groceries and it rains a lot in the winter. Every place has their pros and cons.
Students
Maybe you want a place where your fellow students will be sporty, smart, less intellectual, in town, out of town, very religious background, less religious backgrounds - these are important things to look into. Some schools will pride themselves on having a variety of students and others tend to attract a specific type. Watching the Israel Gap Year takeovers on Instagram is a great way to get a feel for the students.
Programming
Basically every program does tiyulim (trips) and Jewish programming, but every place will (hopefully) have at least one thing that differentiates itself from the other programs. Some programs are focused on chessed trips and missions, and others are known for their really fun Shabbatonim. So look to see if there is a quality that makes a place significantly more special than the others.
Friends
We disagree with the notion that you can't go to the same place where some of your friends go. Your friends are awesome, and will only elevate the experience. Of course, don't choose a program just because your friends are going there, and once you're in a program with friends, don't close yourself off to the other students. Many people meet some of their best friends in life from Yeshiva and Seminary.
Applying
After doing all your research, you may have your heart set on one school. This can lead to a very stressful situation and it's important to always have a backup to your backup. We know many people who ended up in a school they didn't initially want to go to, but were super happy in the end. We hope you get in to the program that you want to but just know there can be many great program options you may have not considered.
Post-Gap-Year
A lot of people switch to YU or commit to the IDF or Sheirut Leumi during their gap year. Some people switch from a secular university to a religious one. In case you decide to transfer universities, it is a good idea to have people in your program who are going to both secular and religious schools. It can be great to stand out, but it can also be nice to be around like-minded people.