Maimonides Leaders Fellowship

The MEOR Maimonides Leaders Fellowship provides the most promising Jewish students on leading U.S. campuses with a unique opportunity to explore Judaism at a level of depth and sophistication commensurate with their academic skills and aspirations.  In a dynamic and open environment, students are introduced to classical Jewish philosophy, the relevance of Jewish wisdom to contemporary issues and Jewish perspectives on some of life’s most challenging questions.

Each student who is awarded a Maimonides Leaders Fellowship is an investment in the future of the Jewish people.  Highlights of the Fellowship include:

A SEMESTER OF WEEKLY CLASSES LED BY A MEOR RABBI.
Students participate in 2.5 – 3 hours per week of in depth Jewish learning.  Each session is typically divided into an hour of study led by a MEOR rabbi and a second hour featuring inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of fields. These classes are not eligible for academic credit and represent a very significant commitment by students.

SHABBAT AND HOSPITALITY.  Weekly Shabbat dinners and special Shabbaton experiences introduce students to the beauty and warmth of Shabbat.  Whether in the home of a MEOR rabbi, at a MEOR center near campus or in the homes of generous MEOR supporters,  students are welcomed by families who are living Jewish lives and observing the enduring traditions of the Jewish people.

JOURNALS AND REFLECTIONS.  Students keep an ongoing journal of their reflections, responses, questions and concerns.  As they delve deeply into Jewish texts, reconcile modernity and tradition, and encounter the major issues of life, the experience of expressing their thoughts through journals is a key aspect of the learning process.

LEARNING-ORIENTED TRAVEL TO ISRAEL. The Maimonides Leaders Fellowship program also includes opportunities for students to participate in MEOR’s innovative learning-oriented trips to Israel.  These two-to-three week trips combine daily classes with outstanding Israel-based teachers, inspiring guest speakers and opportunities to encounter and enjoy the land of Israel.

 

  • It is a great experience to not only meet other Jewish students on campus but to also expand your knowledge and add some Jewish learning into your schedule. I highly recommend it to my friends.

    -Liel, George Washington University

  • I thoroughly enjoyed this program because I hardly considered myself a Jew before I took this program but now I feel like I am a part of a larger network of Jews that I can connect with. It has given me a new perspective on many topics that I will take into consideration as I live my life.

    -Zachary, Binghamton University

  • I would say that no matter what level of observance you are, that I recommend the program. It's truly a great opportunity to meet interesting, passionate people and discuss and learn about aspects of Judaism you would most likely never come across otherwise.

    -Shelby, George Washington University

  • It is an incredible opportunity to explore Judaism more and from a new, fresh perspective. The classes are fun , exciting and interesting and the Shabbatons are a GREAT break from campus! Not to mention that you can form great personal relationships with really impressive and inspirational Rabbi's and Rabbi's wives, and even meet other students on campus.

    -Ilyssa, University of Pennsylvania