I’m a finalist for NSLI-Y summer and a semi-finalist for Bronfman. Obviously, I can’t do both. In the extremely unlikely event that I get the Bronfman fellowship, I would have to choose pretty quickly, so I want to be prepared.
As I see it, Bronfman is a little more prestigious, and has a more closely knit (but much smaller) alumni network. I would really enjoy the discussion and the text study, and it’s a very unique opportunity. I have been to Israel before, and it would be easy to go again (family) but I loved it there and would like to go back.
On the other hand, it would be hard for me to visit the NSLI-Y country and a really exciting experience, but I could in theory learn the language any time. Also, I’m interested in working for the State Department, and I’ve been told that NSLI-Y can be really helpful with that. My dad has already called everyone he’s ever met to tell them, so that little extra bit of awkwardness wouldn’t be fun, but I know that’s not a good reason not to go.
Both of these programs are so fantastic but also so different that I have no idea what to do. Hoping some of the helpful folks here might have some ideas.
I also am in the same situation as you, I’m a finalist for Bronfman and semifinalist for NSLI-Y, and I’d love to hear what people think about this. I think I would go on Bronfman because I have the option to do NSLI-Y next year and Bronfman is only one year, but I’m interested to hear what other people think.
@qwerty1000, if you attend NSLI-Y in the summer after junior year, you have a chance to apply for the full-year program in your senior year (requires a gap year before college) and truly master that language. @websensation can share more details - sounds like his son had a fantastic experience going that route. I am not sure you would be selected for NSLI-Y next year if you turn them down this time, but it’s just my logic/opinion, not based on any facts.
This being said, I think the biggest difference between two programs are homestay vs summer camp/college feel. You can definitely learn a new language later on in college/via semester abroad, and similarly take Jewish History/culture classes in college and return to Israel via multiple other enrichment programs.
Have you guys had your Bronfman interviews already?
@typiCAmom I definitely agree. I personally am more interested in doing NSLI-Y just for the summer, but if you want to take a gap year that’s a great idea. I already had my Bronfman interview, and both NSLI-Y (Arabic summer) and Bronfman should be getting back to me in the next week or two! So depending on where I get in, I’ll be making my decision soon.
So any updates/decisions?
@typiCAmom I was just accepted to the Bronfman fellowship and I think I’m going to take that!
@qwerty1000, my warmest congratulations! Hope you have a blast!