Campus Life
The manageable size of the campus exposes international students to the events and activities taking place throughout the semesters. Students at the International School are strongly encouraged to participate in the variety of activities including concerts, fitness classes, salsa and Israeli folk dancing, lectures and conferences on various topics and sports competitions. In the International School, we promote the diverse religious and ethnic self-expression of all of our students and help them find their own unique connection to Israel. The campus is a mix of secular and religious Jewish native Israelis, new immigrants from the former Soviet Union, Ethiopia, North and South America and Europe, and Israelis whose religious and ethnic backgrounds are Muslim, Christian, Druze and Bedouin.
Social Activities
The University of Haifa International School offers a range of optional co-curricular activities for students participating in the various international programs. An experienced staff of student activity coordinators prepares an extensive itinerary of trips and tours which offers students an enlightening view of Israel, its people, natural beauty and cultural sites. Visiting lecturers come to speak on various aspects of life in Israel, including politics, security, religion, culture and other topics of interest to the students. Some activities may require additional fees. For a list of typical social activities please clickhere.
Cultural Immersion
The International School makes every effort possible for students to become part of Israeli society. Israeli students will be enrolled in the program with international students, and international students will live alongside Israeli students in the campus dormitories.
Students can take advantage of the volunteer opportunities both on and off campus. Students may request to join a local family for a festive meal on holidays and the Sabbath, which is rewarding for both the student and the families involved.
Community Service
The International School encourages all students to volunteer in the greater Haifa community while studying in one of our programs. Native English speakers may choose to tutor immigrant children and youth. Students who wish to participate are paired up with an immigrant child, usually from Ethiopia or the former Soviet Union, and meet once a week. Non-native English speaking students may volunteer to visit a senior citizens' home or to tutor university students in a foreign language other than English. If a student has an additional interest or idea for a volunteer project, we will be happy to make the necessary arrangements. The experience of volunteering allows students to meet and develop close connections with Israelis and to understand first-hand some of the social issues affecting Israel. This investment of time and emotional energy also provides students with an opportunity to leave their mark on Israel before returning to their home country. Please contact the International School for more information about volunteer opportunities.
