Applications for the 2012-2013 Shapiro Family Fellowship are now open. Application deadline December 19, 2011, 5 p.m. EST. Apply Now.

What is the goal of the Shapiro Family Fellowship?

The Shapiro Family Fellowship is all about conversations. The goal of the fellowship is to create a New York-based community of young Jews who are passionate about deepening their connections to Israel, to the Jewish people and to each other.

What does the Shapiro Family Fellowship include?

Each fellowship includes:

• A fully paid 10-day trip to Israel, featuring exclusive meetings with Israeli professionals and experts in the fellows' chosen careers, as well as other leaders;

• Participation in 2 pre-trip meetings and 3 post-trip Institutes to be held in the New York area throughout the 2012-2013 fellowship year;

Access to the growing community and network of Shapiro Family Fellows, mentors and peers.

What if I have another question?

Please contact us, and we'll get back to you with an answer.

When is the trip to Israel?

Travel dates for the 5th Class of Shapiro Fellows are June 27 through July 8, 2012. Flights depart from and return to airports in the New York metropolitan area.

What is the mentoring piece all about?

One piece of the Israel experience is the full day dedicated to matching each fellow with mentor(s) in their profession. During this intensive day, an individual itinerary will be created for each fellow, and will include meetings with senior Israeli professionals and innovators who work in the same field. In the past, Shapiro Fellows have met with Partners in global law firms, major hi-tech companies, supreme court judges, members of Knesset, prominent authors, editors of newspapers and much more.

What's the itinerary?

We will custom-design the itinerary to reflect the professional interests and aspirations of the Fellows. Fellows will have the opportunity to meet with outstanding Israeli professionals in their chosen fields.  Fellows will also engage with peers, professionals and local residents who represent a wide-spectrum of political views, religious beliefs and personal narratives.

The itinerary will also include meetings with Israeli politicians, musicians, entrepreneurs, and dignitaries, and visits to important Israeli landmarks, from the most famous sites to the most obscure.  We'll spend time in several different parts of Israel to gain appreciation of the country's diverse landscape.

What costs are covered?

All costs for the Shapiro Family Fellowship, including fees and travel expenses, are covered — except travel to and from New York (if necessary) prior to and after the Israel trip.

Is the trip Shabbat Observant and Strictly Kosher?

Yes. The Shapiro Family Fellowship is Shabbat Observant and Strictly Kosher.

The application for the 5th Class of the Shapiro Family Fellowship is now open. Apply Now.

Who is eligible for this fellowship?

Fellowships will be awarded to selected individuals aged 22-28 who currently live in the greater New York metropolitan area. Fellows must have either a permanent address in the New York metropolitan area, or must currently be studying and/or working in the New York metropolitan area. Have an interest in deepening your knowledge and understanding of Israeli society, politics and culture.

When is my application due?

December 19, 2011. 5 p.m. EST

How many fellowships are awarded?

In 2012, we will award a maximum of 15 fellowships.

Is an interview required?

There are no pre-application interviews, but the Shapiro Family Fellowship Selection Committee will interview all finalists in January in New York City. Interviews will take place in mid-February 2012. When necessary, we will cover interview travel costs.

What are my requirements if selected as a Fellow?

The fellowship requires mandatory participation in the complete Israel trip program.  In addition, fellows are required to participate in 2 pre-trip (full-day) meetings and 3 post-trip (full-day) institutes.  Pre-trip meetings and post-trip institutes will all take place in and around the New York metropolitan area.  Dates for the institutes will be set in the beginning of January 2012.