WASHINGTON, D.C. – BBYO announces the launch of a new pre-college, gap year program in Israel – “Beyond” (www.beyondyear.org). The program brings together four significant partners, including Authentic Israel, Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life, Masa Israel Journey, and Tel Aviv University, to offer an academic experience along with service opportunities, leadership programming and travel. BBYO’s first gap year program, Beyond is just one of  BBYO’s offerings among its fast-growing menu of Israel experiences offered under its Passport brand.
Beyond applicants can choose between a five-month and nine-month experience, both of which are eligible for an automatic Masa scholarship of $1,000, with up to $3,000 more being available based on financial need. With Tel Aviv University serving as the program’s home base, participants have additional opportunities to explore Europe, engage in community service in Africa, and develop new skills like scuba diving and cooking.
“We know that teens who participate in BBYO programs are much more likely than their peers to seek out positions of leadership and contribute to the world around them. We are pleased to partner in the program and welcome them to our dynamic campus,” said Pnina Gadai Agenyahu, director of Hillel at Tel Aviv University. “Being in Israel and Tel Aviv specifically offers the unique learning experiences of an environment that is both ancient and modern – where Biblical archeology and micro-chip development are part of the fabric of
daily life.”