Candidates who are accepted into the program are assigned to an internship in Israel in their field of interest. Throughout the summer internship, candidates can expect to gain in-depth knowledge and insider experience from high-level executives. Birthright Israel Excel Fellows become an integral part of the team in the office, and will engage with distinguished Israeli leaders from business, technology, politics and philanthropic organizations on a broad range of topics including leadership, Jewish identity, the global economy, and teamwork. Each Fellow is paired with a mentor within the firm who not only is their supervisor but who also takes an active role in discussing future career paths, business interests and commitment to Israel and the Jewish community.
Schedule
The work days are Sunday through Thursday, and participants can expect to work a minimum of 40 hours per week. Fellows are often expected to work beyond these required hours and to participate in a variety of organized activities. They should expect an intense program, without much free time.
View a sample calendar
Not all learning takes place in the boardroom. In addition, Fellows travel to Israeli sites of historical, religious, and cultural interest, and participate in projects designed to encourage a deeper understanding of the State of Israel and its history. In order to enhance their connection to daily Israeli life, participants are paired with an Israeli peer who acts as a guide in navigating the culture and lifestyle of Israeli society.
At least 2-3 times during each week (in the evening after work) and on most weekends there is additional MANDATORY programming focused on the development of leadership skills and business and political awareness. Birthright Israel Excel Fellows have the unique opportunity to be exposed to a group of professionals with vast intellectual resources who will broaden their understanding of the Israeli business, political and academic spectrums. These leaders will give their insight into advancing global connections through entrepreneurship, innovation, perseverance and passion.
Your Israeli Peers
A key component of the summer experience is engaging with Israelis of the same age, most of whom are studying in areas of similar interest or are serving in the Israel Defense Forces. This is an opportunity to get to know Israel through its people. Together, Israelis and their peers in the Diaspora explore their views about personal, religious, and political identities and ideologies. They also discuss what it means to serve the country and to defend the Jewish people.
By engaging in creative, recreational and educational activities with Israeli peers, members of the group develop a personal connection to Israel. These aren’t random or token Israelis dropped into the program. These are the participant’s peers who are joining the trip to gain the same understanding of Israel, Jewish identity and intellectual engagement.
Upon completion of the summer programming, alumni will continue to network together to expand both their leadership and business acumen and become a part of an exclusive community of future international Jewish business and technology leaders.
Read more about the experience after the internship