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Reform Jewish Engagement: Before and After University

Written by Jude Williams Monday, 08 August 2011

Jude Williams, Director of the Movement for Reform Judaism's Youth Department looks at how students and young adults can take advantage of opportunities to engage in Jewish life in a changing landscape where the traditional gap year may no longer be possible.

Many of our young people will be receiving their 'A' level results on 18th August. With the change in fees for university study many have decided not to take a gap year. RSY-Netzer will be sending three people on Shnat Netzer. Over the last few years the group has numbered 15 plus.

RSY-Netzer has fared extremely well over the past few years in terms of numbers – in fact RSY-Netzer is the only youth movement to have increased its numbers in 2011. Yet the effect on gap year programmes means we will be thinking about how to offer amazing opportunities for students and young adults that replace the traditional gap year.

Josh Martin, Mazkir of RSY-Netzer says: "I have been working with UJIA and the other youth movements throughout this year planning a new programme specifically for our members who can’t afford to defer their university place to 2012. We have built a programme spread over the year that runs alongside their first year study." This programme is offered to those who are interested in being involved with RSY-Netzer and the Reform Movement. Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.

At the other end of the spectrum is the growth of programmes offered to those post university; rather than taking a gap year before university, taking time to travel after university. The popularity of post-university travel has increased dramatically in the past few years. This year we know that the pressure to find work after university is intense, with many graduate schemes showing a 60 applicant for every position ratio. It is therefore not surprising that many graduates are looking to internships, or other types of experiences to help build their CV and experience.

One programme that the Reform Movement has seen blossom over the past three years is LIFE. LIFE is a programme developed by Yonatan Glaser, an active Reform Jew from Kol Haneshama Reform congregation in Israel. The programme combines the Israel gap year experience with an internship in India.

LIFE is the social change and leadership development program that includes living and working in India for four months and in Israel for 5 months.  Yoantan Glaser says: "We are finalising preparations for our fourth annual programme and invite you to join us and make a difference in LIFE by following your passions and applying your skills to the benefit of thousands."

LIFE is taking applications until the end of August. More information can be found at the LIFE website. While the uncertainty of finding university places, considering the impact of fees, and even finding work is increasing, there are also wonderful opportunities for our young people to experience Israel and to get involved with international volunteering. The Reform Movement will be helping to offer more of these opportunities in the future.