Israel has always been at the heart of the JHP experience. Through immersive educational trips, internships, leadership opportunities, and meaningful partnerships, JHP helps students build a lifelong connection to the land, the people, and the future of Israel.
In Partnership with BICEP
Working closely with BICEP (Business Initiative Connecting, Educating, and Partnering), JHP provides students with opportunities to engage directly with Israel’s innovation ecosystem, meet entrepreneurs and industry leaders, and gain firsthand exposure to the country’s vibrant business, technology, and nonprofit sectors.
Throughout the year, students also participate in leadership missions, volunteer initiatives, cultural experiences, professional networking events, and conversations with thought leaders from across Israeli society. These experiences move beyond tourism, giving students a deeper understanding of Israel’s complexity, resilience, and remarkable contributions to the world.
Whether spending a summer interning in Tel Aviv, volunteering during times of national need, or building relationships with Israeli peers and professionals, students return home with lasting friendships, expanded perspectives, and a stronger sense of Jewish identity and responsibility.
Through BICEP Israel Strategy Grant funds we are able to offer Israel-related events at Penn and to enhance our Birthright trips with special, BICEP-only excursions. Upon return to Penn, post-trip events keep BICEP students engaged in the Israel conversation as well as in their Birthright community.
After being a student at Penn for three years, it was so nice to open up and talk about my IDF service in a warm and comfortable environment. Although my experience as a combat soldier is very different than what most 18-20 year olds experience in the states, it was cool to put things into perspective for my friends. I loved giving them a window into “a day in the life” as well as learning about the other Penn undergraduate students who used to be soldiers. I am so thankful for JHP and the BICEP grant for allowing me to engage with Penn students in a constructive, positive, and exciting way through events like the IDF panel as well as the unique opportunity to travel with Chabad last year on Birthright.”