There are hundreds of internship programs in Israel giving American students the opportunity to get a taste of both Israeli culture and work life. Programs including Onward, J Internship and The Israel Innovation Fund (TIIF) allow students to become an active part of the startup nation.
These programs, which reach out to more than 2,500 American students a year, provide participants with an immersive résumé-building experience through internships and fellowships.
Tel Aviv, one of the startup capitals of the world, offers U.S. students many opportunities to work in Israel—and not only at startups.
Alex Carter, a member of the South Palm Beach Onward Program, and Maia Koffman, a participant in the University of Florida Hillel program, both intern in Tel Aviv at jobs that fit their future career roles.
Koffman works at the Neve Tzedek Animal Hospital and Carter works for School of Shine, a Tel Aviv community geared towards promoting self-appreciation among women.
“On a day-to-day basis, I work alongside founder Zo Flamenbaum writing articles, planning the monthly newsletter and reaching out to women in the community via social media,” said Carter.
According to Koffman, the Neve Tzedek Animal Hospital is unlike an ordinary animal hospital.
“While also doing general pet checkups, doctors here also perform life-saving surgeries,” she said. “I watch these doctors perform these surgeries every day and help the animals feel more comfortable when they go through the process.”
Koffman said she has gained true hands-on work experience in the position, of a kind not every company can offer.
Not only are both students gaining valuable experience in their desired fields, they’re gaining confidence, too.
“I really do like the challenges my job entails,” says Koffman. “Whether I decide to work in Israel or back in the United States, I feel any job related to this area of work won’t be difficult to get adjusted to.”
According to Marty Moseson, the Internship Coordinator for Onward Jerusalem, Onward is the biggest internship program in Israel.
“There are over 700 interns across Jerusalem, Haifa, Tel Aviv and other cities all throughout Israel. My role as a coordinator is to interview all the interns and find places where students can obtain internships based on interests and hobbies,” said Moseson.
Moseson, who is originally from New York, said that his time with Onward has given him great insight into the Israeli and specifically the Jerusalem job market.
Another resume-building organization is The Israel Innovation Fund (TIIF). TIIF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit largely based in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Similar to Onward, its vision is to connect interns around the world with the creativity and vibrancy of Israeli culture. Their outreach program puts an emphasis on young adults with personality.
According to TIIF Director of Engagement Tatiana Hasson, “Due to Israel being a culture hub, we try and use wine, art, film and other events to give a full culture experience, so the interns have a great time, while also having a meaningful time.” Hasson said along with a work experience, TIIF puts a stronger focus on a family vibe, creating lasting relationships.
TIIF is unlike most nonprofits, explained Hasson. It aims for self-sustainability in every project it launches, she said, and giving young American Jews these types of opportunities not only helps them get work experience, but also helps spread the word about what the country has to offer.