gap year in israel

New Beginnings & Big Celebrating 15 Years of Aardvark Israel!

Shalom Parents, Students, and Partners,

A new semester means new spirit, new experiences and new students discovering Israel.

On the 9th of January, our spring semester began with more than 120 students: for some it’s their first semester, for some it’s their second, but we can assure you that the excitement was on.

15 Years - And We’re Just Getting Started!

This year, we’re celebrating 15 incredible years of Aardvark Israel! Since day one, we’ve welcomed 2,315 students from over 40 different countries, giving them the opportunity to explore Israel, build lifelong friendships, and take their first steps toward independence.

From unforgettable Tiyulim (trips) to meaningful internships and everything in between, Aardvark Israel has become more than just a gap year program—it’s a community, a journey, and a home away from home.

And the adventure continues! Each year, we see that our mission goes beyond providing an amazing gap year—it’s about helping young Jews from around the world connect with their true selves, their Jewish and Zionist identities, and so much more.

Here’s to 15 years of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories—and to many more ahead! 🥂🎉

Openingtiyul

Opening Ceremony: Starting a New Journey

During Orientation Week, our students took their first steps into this transformative gap year adventure in Israel. They learned how to budget, adapt to living with others, and be independent in a new setting.

The week ended with a trip to the beautiful north of Israel, where students hiked, connected with each other, and started making lasting bonds. As the trip came to an end, everyone in the program came together at Ein Yizrael for a special Opening Ceremony, which was led by Zach, our Eitan Community Manager.

A powerful part of the ceremony happened when Nitzan, a second-semester student,shared her personal experience with the group. She explained to our new students that, based on her own experience, although the change might seem scary, they are never really alone.

“When I first arrived, I felt alone. Sure, I was never physically alone—there were my five apartment-mates, my madrichim, our community manager, the neighbors peering through their windows, the street cats, and of course, Ben Dod. But emotionally, the adjustment was hard.”

She urged the new students to welcome the experience, even if it feels strange.

“In the middle of all the balagan, the best choice I made was to opt in—to say yes, even to things that seemed ‘lame’ at the moment. Late-night AM-PM runs, collective laundry dates, tossing a frisbee while waiting for the bus—those were the moments that turned strangers into my closest friends.”

She gave them an honest warning with a clear and strong message:

“Be lame. Say hi. Take a deep breath. Look around and see that we’re all in this together.”

As the ceremony ended, it was clear that these students, who had all come alone, were starting to form a community. The journey is just starting.

Sunday Apartment Meetings: More Than Just a Clean Apartment

Every Sunday, our madrichim (counselors)  visit students’ apartments for a routine check-in—starting, of course, with a cleanliness check (because let’s be honest, we all know how 18-year-olds love keeping their rooms tidy 😉).

But these meetings are about more than just chores—they’re an opportunity for students to navigate social dynamics, strengthen their connections with roommates, and dive deeper into Israeli culture. Each week, the madrichim lead a different engaging activity, designed to spark meaningful conversations and build a stronger community.

From learning about important Israeli figures, to making delicious food together, these sessions turn shared living spaces into learning experiences, friendships, and a whole lot of laughter.

Tiyul Tuesdays: Pa’amaim ki Tov.

Every Tuesday, our students step out of the classroom and into the landscapes, history, and culture of Israel on a full-day tiyul (trip). But this tradition isn’t just about adventure—it’s no coincidence that it happens on a Tuesday!

In Jewish tradition, Tuesday is considered an especially lucky day because, during the creation of the world, God said “ki tov” (it was good) twice—making it a day of double blessing. So what better day to explore the land, connect with its history, and create lifelong memories?

From hiking through breathtaking nature reserves to walking the streets of ancient cities, Tiyul Tuesdays are an essential part of the Aardvark Israel experience—because learning about Israel should be as dynamic and meaningful as living here.

Tuesdaytiyul

Ethiopia International Trip

February started off with a few of our students traveling to Ethiopia. They explored the fascinating history of the Ethiopian Jewish community and their inspiring Aliyah to Israel, as well as the history and current reality of the Jewish community in Ethiopia today. Our students experienced authentic Ethiopian culture through meeting the people of the country, eating traditional Ethiopian food, and visiting historically significant sites.

Gap year in israel - aardvarkisrael

Keeping Up With the Rhythm!

Gap year in israel - aardvarkisrael

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Music Production Add-On! Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, this program will help you explore the world of music production and unleash your creativity. In collaboration with BPM College, one of Tel Aviv’s top music production schools, students will get hands-on experience learning the fundamentals of beat-making, sound design, and mixing. Tune into the sound of your passion and take your musical skills to the next level!

Interested in hearing more about it? Contact us! 

If you are still not following us on social media platforms, you definitely should! Get a chance to experience our program on the go and stay up to date with what our students are doing!