Write On for Israel
Changing the way Jewish students address Israel on campus
Are you ready to make a difference for Israel on America’s college campuses? As you plan for your junior year, you’re already thinking about the college years to come. You’re preparing for the academic and social challenges you’ll face. But are you prepared to advocate for Israel when you get to campus?
Write On for Israel can give you the tools to get that job done – and sends you to college with new and positive voice in support of Israel.
What is Write On for Israel? This intensive, two-year program, sponsored by JUF News and the Community Foundation for Jewish Education of Metropolitan Chicago, combines history and politics with hands-on training in writing and public speaking. It is open to 25 exceptional high school juniors (as of fall 2008) who love Israel; who write and speak well; can commit to a 2-year extracurricular program in Israel advocacy; and are ready for an Israel experience that goes beyond tourism to actively engage the issues.
Here’s what Write On Fellows say about the program:
“The best place for Jewish high school students to further their ability to advocate for Israel…This program has opened my eyes to the reality of the situation and has empowered me to take my love for Zionism and Israel to the next level."
“As a result of Write On, I am more likely to become an active Israel advocate on campus because now … I not only have the pride, but also the knowledge to accurately and persuasively express my opinions and relay the facts."
How much does it cost? The AVI CHAI Foundation underwrites Write On, so there is little or no charge for this exciting program. HOWEVER, applicants accepted to the program are required to sign a completion contract and post a $500 completion deposit. Failure to complete the program can result in forfeiture of the deposition and/or incurring the cost of the Israel trip.
When does Write On for Israel begin? Write On Fellows will begin the program in December 2008 and conclude in June 2010. The Israel trip will occur in summer 2009.
What does the program require? As a Write On Fellow, you will:
- Attend seven mandatory Sunday seminars from December 2008 to June 2009 on history, media, journalism, and advocacy, taught by professionals on the front lines of the issues.
- Complete required homework assignments, including reading and writing assignments that build skills and broaden understanding of the issues.
- Travel to Israel in summer 2009 for a two-week educational program that introduces you to Israeli media, political leaders, and policy-makers.
- Participate in community advocacy projects, including preparing a special supplement to JUF News academic year 2009-10.
- Receive professional-level mentoring that builds skills and confidence.
Who qualifies? Write On is designed for the very brightest and most committed Jewish teens – but any high school junior who is serious about Israel advocacy can qualify, regardless of where they go to school, how much they know about Israel, or if they’ve traveled to the Jewish State. Fellows are expected to make this program their number one priority – after academics. Write On Fellows receive a certificate of completion from the program and can count themselves among an elite group of students invited to participate.
When can you apply to Write On for Israel? Right now! Write On for Israel is accepting applications for the 2008-10 academic years now through June 15, 2008. Competitive applicants will be interviewed over the summer and early fall, and the full class will be accepted by September 15, 2008.
What will you need to apply? Every application requires two references, a high school transcript, two essays and writing samples, so don’t delay!
Where can you get an application? Please download the application for fall of 2008 (PDF) along with the required reference forms (PDF) below and follow the instructions. If you have any trouble completing the web application, email the Write On program at writeonforisrael@juf.org, or call us at 773-883-9766. Leave your name and phone number and ask for an application.
Complete your online application as soon as possible. The deadline HAS BEEN EXTENDED to September 22.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
