Belong Offers Safe Haven for Jewish Students Facing US Campus Hostilities
In response to growing antisemitism and anti-Israel protests on US campuses, a new Israeli relocation company, Belong, has launched an initiative aimed at providing Jewish students with an alternative academic environment in Israel. Belong, which opened last month, is offering 500 Jewish students from Columbia University and other institutions across the US free concierge support services to facilitate their study in Israel.
Belong provides a wide range of services from free online resources to personal assistance, aimed at helping students navigate the complexities of relocating. This includes assistance with program registration, identifying suitable study programs, advising on course credits, connecting students with Israeli peers for guidance and networking, finding housing, and securing student or residence visas. Interested students must apply by May 31 through Belong’s website.
The company highlights the rich educational opportunities available in Israel, including semesters abroad and postgraduate studies in cutting-edge fields such as entrepreneurship, technology, and neuroscience. Many Israeli universities collaborate with prestigious institutions like Northwestern and Wharton, offering internationally recognized programs.
Gilad Ramot, founder and chairman of Belong, expressed concern over the intensifying antisemitic and anti-Israel sentiments at US colleges. “Jewish students, whether from the Ivy League or any other university globally, need to know they have top-tier academic alternatives in Israel, and we are here to assist those who wish to transfer,” he stated.
Eilon Gilad, CEO of Belong, emphasized the organization’s commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive study environment. “We urge all Israeli universities and colleges to expedite these applications and provide the necessary infrastructure to ensure a seamless transition into Israeli academia,” he added.
