My name is Audra Rachel Rosenzweig. I’m originally from the US, but I grew up in Singapore. I went to the United World College of Southeast Asia. I chose to go on a gap year because I wanted to learn how to live on my own before going off to ...
This week we read the Torah portion of Ki Tisa. Prior to Moses’ ascent to Mount Sinai, he told the nation that he would be gone for forty days. Unfortunately, there was a rather significant misunderstanding. The Jewish people were uncertain when the count should begin. Does that day count ...
My name is Ilan Yair Wimpfheimer and I was born and raised in Teaneck, New Jersey. I went to The Frisch School and I chose to go on a gap year to learn more about my Jewish origins and to step out of my comfort zone. I ultimately came across ...
This coming week we celebrate the festival of Purim. 2,500 years ago, while exiled and living under the rule of the Persian Empire, a cruel anti-Semite named Haman rose to a position of power. With his newfound power, he attempted to genocide the entire Jewish population. From the brink of ...
This week we read the Torah portion of Terumah. Following the epic Giving of the Torah, the Children of Israel were commanded to construct the Tabernacle. By following the instructions and building the Tabernacle according to G-d’s specifications, G-d promises, vshachanti b’tocham – “I will dwell in them.” There seems ...
My name is Gina Shankman, I am from South Africa, specifically Johannesburg. I went to school at King David Linksfield High school. I was always hesitant to take a gap year and never really wanted to but I knew I needed to as I wanted to meet new people, make ...
Flying inside of Israel is a great way to get around the country quickly and easily. With two major airports, Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv and Ovda International Airport in Eilat, travelers can get to their destination with ease. Planes are the most common form of transportation for ...
My name is Linda Hannah Rhoads and I’m from Dallas, Texas. I’ve lived in Texas my whole life and I attended a school called Yavneh Academy of Dallas. My whole life I’ve always known I wanted to take a gap year in Israel, so my parents spent a lot of ...
This week we read the Torah portion of Mishpatim. Following the giving of the Ten Commandments in last week’s portion, the Torah proceeds to explain many monetary laws. One law deals with the Jewish slave. The Torah states, “Should you buy a Hebrew slave, he shall work [for] six years, ...
My name is Raphael Leo Leon, but I usually just go by Raphi. Given the fact that from 11-18, I went to a school called City of London School, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that I am from London, where I have lived my whole life. And yes, ...
In this week’s Torah portion, we read of the epic giving of the Ten Commandments. We must ask the question; why is it that the Torah portion in which the Torah itself is given to the Jewish nation, is named after Yitro, Moses’ father-in-law? Yitro was an advisor to the ...
Have you ever wanted to explore the South of Israel? From the desert of Ein Gedi to the beaches of Eilat and from the historical Masada to the salty waters of Dead Sea, this region is filled with plenty of activities and attractions that will make your gap year unforgettable. ...
Are you considering taking a gap year in Israel? If so, you should consider traveling to the North of Israel! With its beautiful landscapes, unique culture and rich history, the North of Israel is a great place for a gap year adventure. From exploring ancient ruins to enjoying the Mediterranean ...
My name is Anna Felicia Hirsch (חנה) I was born and raised in Miami Beach, Florida. I went to school at RASG Hebrew Academy for 12 years of my life. I chose to go on a gap year specifically at Aardvark Israel because they provided everything I have always wanted; ...
In this week’s Torah reading, Pharaoh finally lets the Jewish people leave Egypt following the final plague.. Almost immediately, he regrets his decision and pursues them with a large army. At this point, the wondrous separation of the Reed Sea occurs. The Jewish people make it across before the walls ...
My name is Katherine Alexandra Ruf, but I go by Alex. I am from Quito, Ecuador, where I was born and raised until I was 17. I went to an American International school, called Academia Cotopaxi. At 17, I moved to Maryland, USA on my own, to finish High School. ...
In this week’s Torah portion, we read of the final three plagues to afflict Egypt prior to the Jewish exodus. Regarding the plague of darkness the Torah states: “So Moses stretched forth his hand toward the heavens, and there was thick darkness over the entire land of Egypt for three ...
My name is Dalia, I am Dutch and American, as I was born in New York City where I lived until I was four. When my family moved back to Amsterdam I went to school there, most recently at Maimonides high school. I heard of Aardvark from some close friends ...
Shalom Parents, Students, Partners, and Staff, December was the last month of the fall semester and trust us, a lot happened in just one month. We said goodbye to some of our students and ‘See you soon’ to most of our students, who went on their winter break and will ...
A gap year in Israel is a great opportunity to explore a new culture and expand your horizons. For Canadians, it is an amazing way to get out of their comfort zone and experience something completely different. Whether you are looking for adventure, physical fitness, or spiritual growth, Israel has ...
