For over a decade, Jewish college students from Cincinnati have had the chance to spend their summers in Tel Aviv through the Birthright Israel Onward program. This unique initiative is more than just an internship; it’s an experience designed to strengthen both careers and connections. By living and working in Israel’s most vibrant city, students not only gain hands-on professional experience but also deepen their personal ties to Jewish identity and community. Administered by JVS Careers and supported by the Cincy Journeys Israel travel grant, the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, and the Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, the program makes it possible for participants to explore Israel in a meaningful and lasting way.
Professional Experience in a Global Hub
Tel Aviv is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading innovation centers, home to countless start-ups, nonprofits, and cultural institutions. Internships are tailored to each student’s field of interest, whether in business development, marketing, sciences, or the arts. With placements ranging from social media start-ups to speech therapy nonprofits, students gain practical, hands-on experience that directly connects to their career aspirations.
Working in an international setting also helps students build adaptability, communication skills, and confidence. Future employers value candidates who can thrive in diverse workplaces, manage cross-cultural challenges, and take initiative in new environments. The eight-week format ensures students develop not just technical skills but also professional maturity that will stand out on future applications.
Career Coaching and Support
Before leaving for Israel, participants receive free professional career coaching at JVS Careers, preparing them to maximize their internship experience. Coaches help them set goals, align their résumés to match the Israeli standards, and reflect on how to present their international experience to employers and graduate schools. Once in Tel Aviv, program staff and internship coordinators provide ongoing support to ensure placements are meaningful and productive. This blend of preparation and guidance makes the program a powerful bridge between education and career.
Cultural Immersion and Jewish Identity
Interning in Tel Aviv is more than just working abroad; it is living in the heart of Israeli culture. From Sunday through Thursday, students immerse themselves in the professional life of the city. On evenings and weekends, they travel, participate in educational programming, and explore Israel’s history and diverse communities.
Living with peers from Cincinnati in shared apartments fosters close bonds and shared experiences. Beyond the workplace, students strengthen their connection to Jewish heritage and community. For many, this is an opportunity to experience Israel not just as tourists, but as temporary residents contributing to its vibrant society.
Affordable and Accessible
One of the most remarkable aspects of this program is its accessibility. Thanks to the Cincy Journeys Israel travel grant funded by The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, 100% of program costs are covered for eligible students. Housing, insurance, ground transportation, airfare, and educational programming are all included. Participants only cover food and phone service, making the experience affordable for a wide range of students.
In return, students invest a small refundable deposit, reinforcing accountability while keeping the program cost-free for those in good standing. This philanthropic support ensures that financial barriers do not stand in the way of professional and personal growth.
Lasting Connections and Opportunities
Beyond skill-building, the program cultivates lifelong relationships. Students gain entry into the broader Onward Birthright and Masa networks, which connect young professionals across the globe. This support system can open doors to future opportunities in Israel and beyond, making the program not just a summer experience but a stepping stone to long-term growth. For Cincinnati students, the program has been a bridge to Israel for more than a decade, helping participants return home with stronger résumés, a deeper sense of Jewish identity, and connections that last well into the future.
To learn more about Birthright Israel Onward, contact Irina Kleinerman, Program Manager at [email protected]
