The various perspectives, affiliations, and relationships with Israel all find a wide range of expression at Tulane Hillel. There is no one monolithic approach or belief that can speak to the innumerable characteristics and attributes that comprise Israel. In this spirit, Tulane Hillel does not subscribe to any Israeli political perspective or position regarding formal policy. This is also true for any political position of any country.

At Tulane Hillel, we believe healthy and respectful dialogue always prioritizes humanity before politics. Tulane Hillel seeks to convene students around areas, themes, and activities in which we can all seek to find common ground for the purpose of creating and strengthening the sense of healthy community, empowered to take on problems that the world and we all face together as humans.

There are many ways to engage with the complexities and nuances of modern-day Israel; Tulane Hillel and its staff are your partners on this journey. Fill out our Israel Interest form here or take a look below at some of the great offerings we run throughout the year.

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Israel Learning Fellowship (ILF)

Kol Yisrael is a 6-week Israel Education program for students to:

• Encounter big ideas and big questions that engage Israel as a real-world case study
• Explore a diversity of values-based narratives, representing opinions across various spectra
• Connect Israel content to personal experiences, beliefs, and values

Participating students, who meet the requirements, receive a stipend upon completion of the course
ILF is open to students of all backgrounds who are excited to learn about others’ perspectives in a genuine way and to authentically engage with big ideas and big questions related to Israel.

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Travel to Israel with other Tulane students while making friends from across the world. Bring your questions and come ready to learn! Students are welcome to sign up solo or with friends and family members – from Tulane or elsewhere, we welcome you.

Tulane Hillel typically brings a group of students on a Birthright trip during Winter Break and a larger group of students on a Birthright trip in early June.

Please note, dates for the 2023-2024 school year have not yet been released.

Access the official Tulane Hillel x Birthright page for our trip run through our trip provider, Israel Outdoors, for the most up-to-date info and link to the Birthright application.

To find out more about what you can expect from the experience, check out photos from past trips with Tulane students. If you have any questions, you can email our Israel Fellow, Sharon David at sdavid2@tulane.edu.

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Embark on a transformative journey of discovery and dialogue with the Tulane Israel Leadership Trip (TILT). This immersive 10-day, cross-cultural experience invites student-leaders from diverse backgrounds and faiths to explore the vibrant tapestry of Israel.

Each year, Tulane Hillel selects a cohort of Tulane Campus Leaders ⁠— primarily non-Jewish identifying and some Jewish students — who are interested in learning more about Israel, are committed to respectful and civil dialogue about complex topics, and are open-minded to join us on this journey. On this trip, students will gain valuable insight into Israeli and Palestinian culture, the main religious groups in Israel, ethnic minorities in the region, Israeli technological advancements, the Israel-Palestinian conflict, social justice issues, and many other topics. The itinerary also will include fun activities and enable students to explore during their free time. Please know there is not necessarily an equal balance of speakers and activities, and the itinerary may change. This highly-subsidized trip to Israel will span approximately 10 days, typically in early June, and is open to all.

Applications for the limited number of spots will open in December 2023. Please note this is a highly competitive process and not all applicants are extended an interview or place on the trip. Check out photos from previous trips here to see what amazing people and places this experience has in store.

For more information or questions, please contact Assistant Director Gary Brandt at gbrandt1@tulane.edu.

A little more about TILT:

• Join a remarkable cohort of passionate individuals as you delve into meaningful conversations surrounding the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict and discover the shared values and aspirations that unite communities living side by side, even amidst their differences.
• Engage in thought-provoking exchanges that challenge preconceptions and deepen understanding, as you hear diverse perspectives from individuals who call this land home.
• Beyond the enlightening conversations and encounters, this journey also offers ample opportunities for adventure and exploration. From bustling cities to serene desert vistas, each day presents new opportunities for cultural immersion and personal growth.
• Experience the warmth and hospitality of locals as you connect with individuals from different backgrounds and traditions.
• From the mystical streets of Jerusalem to the enchanting shores of the Dead Sea, every destination showcases the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage that make Israel truly remarkable. Join us as we bridge divides, celebrate diversity, and experience the undeniable magic of Israel.

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Tulane Hillel is thrilled to partner with Onward Israel to offer you the opportunity to gain international work experience to set yourself apart as you move forward on your career path! This 8-week Tulane Hillel Onward Israel program helps set you up with an internship and to gain professional skills, relationships, and experience working on issues that are on the cutting edge of our world.

During your free time, explore Tel Aviv’s exciting nightlife, beaches, foodie scene, and culture. Enjoy a weekend with peers from around the world at an Onward Israel breakout seminar and explore all that Israel has to offer.

This Onward Israel–Masa Program is organized by IGT Israel & Global Travel and operated through a partnership between the Beacon and Shapira Foundations and other leading philanthropists, the Birthright Israel Foundation, Masa Israel Journey, Hillel International, and Tulane Hillel. For more information about participating in a longer-term Masa Program after Onward Israel and the potential impact of participating in Onward Israel on future Masa grants, view our FAQ here.

This program is designed for participants who are highly responsive and responsible, are able to live overseas in housing and in a society that is different from American standards, and requires those who are exceptionally independent in new and challenging situations.

Please note, the application for Onward Summer 2024 is not currently open. The application process will begin in December 2023.

If you have any questions, you can email our Israel Fellow Sharon David at sdavid2@tulane.edu.

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Every year during the spring semester, our Hillel celebrates Israel by throwing our annual Israel Fest. During this celebration of Israel, students participate in numerous events including panels, movie showings, speakers, and a festival on the LBC quad.