"I’ve spent my days learning at BINA’s south Tel Aviv-based Secular Yeshiva, applying ancient Jewish texts to our understanding of contemporary Israel. The gap year program attracts international students and Israelis alike, all interested in creating a rich relationship with Judaism outside of its traditional religious expressions. We then apply our studies in the classroom to our neighborhood of South Tel Aviv, working and learning alongside African refugees and immigrants."

"Despite the Coronavirus pandemic and perhaps even thanks to it, I am here, in Israel. I feel so lucky to have made it to Israel and to be part of BINA’s Shnat Sherut (Service Year) in South Tel Aviv and continue making an impact in the local community while also immersing myself in Israeli culture."

"Soon after my flight landed in Israel, the BINA staff met me at the airport and transported me to Tel Aviv. When I arrived at my apartment, I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was fully stocked with groceries and cleaning supplies. Despite my initial impressions of what it would be like in quarantine, it exceeded my expectations and made me even more eager for my gap year to start!"

“BINA Gap Year taught me how to live on my own, how to be responsible for myself and for others, to balance a budget, to balance my time, to be independent. It introduced me to different places in Israel, to different political and social opinions, to different kinds of people, to what it means to live in a group, and so much more. I would definitely recommend it.”

"There truly is no other Gap program like BINA. The combination of social justice and action, learning at the Secular Yeshiva, living and learning with Israelis, volunteering, and so much more is so incredibly special and I feel so lucky to have been on this program."