Birthright Excel Gives Students a Taste of Israeli Hi-Tech
Source: Jerusalem Post
August 5, 2015 marks the end of the 2015 Birthright Israel Excel Fellowship Program, a two-month internship program for American and Canadian college students that aims to build lasting relationships for the participants with Israel. The program is a branch of Taglit-Birthright, which sponsors free educational 10-day trips to Israel. The fellowship program – called Birthright Excel – is designed for sophomores, juniors and seniors in American and Canadian universities who want internships in the business and technology sectors. Due to its focus on the startup world, the participants are based in Tel Aviv. The program is free of charge and includes flights and meals.
The Birthright Excel program, currently in its fifth year, allows outstanding students from the United States and Canada the opportunity to intern with leading companies in Israel and gain a better look into Israel’s society. This year, the program had 44 students from 27 colleges and universities.
In addition to interning, the students also met Israeli leaders in various industries, took part in professional workshops, and toured locations all over the country. The students were also paired up with an Israeli of their age, which allowed them not only to enhance their resume, but also make a personal connection to Israel.
The support and programming offered at the Birthright Excel program does not end in Israel, but continues long after the program ends. There is an extensive alumni network and regular gatherings, to provide networking opportunities and speakers.
Read the entire story at the Jerusalem Post.