Where will I live?
Will I feel welcomed?
How will I get around Portland? Can I bring a car?
Do I have to cook?
Does Tivnu accommodate dietary needs?
I’ve never done construction. Can I still participate in that part of the program?
What is the educational program like?
How much free time will I have?
Will this gap year help me in college?
Why is Tivnu in Portland?
Do I have to be Jewish to do Tivnu?
What’s Jewish practice like at Tivnu?
What is Shabbat like?
Do I need to know Hebrew or have formal Jewish education?
Will there be adult supervision?
Can I afford this program?
Are there vacations?
I feel unsure about working with people who are unhoused. What if I’m uncomfortable?
Where do Tivnu alumni go to college?
What is Tivnu’s vaccination policy?
The Big Decision Questions
Should I take a gap year or go straight to college?
Will taking a gap year hurt my college admissions chances?
How do I convince my parents that a gap year is a good idea?
Is a gap year worth it, or am I just delaying my life?
Practical Planning
What makes a good gap year program anyway?
How much does a gap year cost?
Can I still apply to college during my gap year?
When should I start planning my gap year?
How do I defer my college acceptance?
Program-Specific Questions
What's the difference between volunteering abroad vs. domestically?
Are there gap year programs that don't cost a fortune?
Can I do multiple things during my gap year?
What about gap year internships or work programs?
Social and Personal Concerns
Will I lose touch with my friends if I take a gap year?
How do I explain my gap year to people?
What if I don't want to go to college after my gap year?
Will I be behind everyone else when I start college?
Outcome Worries
Do gap years actually help you figure out what you want to do?
How do I make sure my gap year isn't just wasted time?
What should I accomplish during my gap year?
Learn more about Our Jewish Gap Year in America