Location
  • Palestine
Length
4 to 13 weeks
General grants/scholarships

Program Details

Compensation
Unpaid
Timeframe
Academic Year Fall J-Term Maymester Spring Spring Break Summer Winter Year Round
Housing
Apartment Host Family
Language
Arabic
Weekly Hours
30
Age Min.
18
Age Max
75

Pricing

Starting Price
1250
Price Details
Excellence Center charges a fee of 1250$ per month. The program fees include pre-departure support, accommodation, some meals, full coordination while interning in Palestine, some visits to different sites in the city of Hebron.
What's Included
Accommodation Activities Some Meals Wifi
What's Not Included
Airfare Visa
Jan 04, 2024
Sep 14, 2024
42 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

The Internship in Palestine Program provides internationals with the opportunity to experience the Palestinian culture, daily life, human rights, Palestinian refugee situations, Palestinian laws, legal situation in the West Bank, and politics in Hebron, West Bank, while participating in a highly regarded community program with the Excellence Center.

The Center fosters this cultural experience by organizing visits for interns to different institutions (including both Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and governmental organizations), factories, and refugee camps in Hebron, West Bank, Palestine receiving a firsthand experience of daily life. This exciting experience is delivered through a number of internships at the Center. Furthermore, participants in the internship may study either Modern Standard Arabic or Ammiya (spoken Arabic dialects), gain transferable skills, meet Palestinian people, stay with a Palestinian host family, and learn more about the rich Palestinian culture.

Video and Photos

Impact

With all our Arabic courses and volunteer programs, we aim to make a long term difference for the Palestinian local community through the exchange of ideas and “walking in each other’s shoes”. Our programs and courses foster shared learning, for both our community and you. During your Arabic course, you will get to learn so much more than just the language. You will also get to learn a lot about Palestinian culture and customs and the political situation in Palestine. Additionally, you will have many opportunities while outside the classroom to practice your Arabic in a natural and authentic way while navigating your new life in Hebron. Your time with us in Hebron will also provide you with many opportunities of cultural exchange and mutual learning, both with local Palestinians as well as with our other international participants.

Program Highlights

  • Studying Arabic in Palestine (Modern Standard Arabic, MSA) or Colloquial Palestinian Arabic
  • Learning more and engaging in Palestinian culture and politics
  • Assisting the cause of Palestinian refugees in the West Bank
  • Leading community activities in the city of Hebron
  • Providing educational support for Palestinian children

Popular Programs

Internship

Palestine and Israel Internship: Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, professional, retiree or just someone interested in the political history, human rights, Palestinian refugees or current situation, the Palestine and Israel in Context Internship program is for you! With the ability to hear the opinions of everyday people and understand, grasp and witness the effects of the conflict first hand, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain insider knowledge beyond the headlines.

Law

The Palestinian Laws & Legal Practices Internship is an ideal program for students of law, social sciences, or human rights, as well as those interested in the Palestinian legal system in the West Bank. Interns can enroll for a period of 1 to 13 weeks year-round. This legal internship program in Palestine aims to provide a full understanding of the legislation applicable to the West Bank and Gaza.

Internship

Internship In The West Bank Program offers international participants the chance to immerse themselves in Palestinian culture and daily life, as well as learn about human rights, refugee situations, and politics in Hebron, West Bank. The program involves participating in a highly respected community development initiative run by Volunteer In Palestine.

Human Rights

The Human Rights Volunteer Internship Program in the city of Hebron, Palestine is designed to introduce the subject of Palestinian human rights in an environment that will help you grow both personally and professionally. This human rights volunteer opportunity in the West Bank, Palestine is a great opportunity for those interested in gaining experience in fields such as humanitarian aid, Palestinian refugees, diplomacy, political science, and international law

Related Programs

Program Reviews

4.77 Rating
based on 132 reviews
  • 5 rating 77.27%
  • 4 rating 22.73%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Growth 4.65
  • Support 4.8
  • Fun 4.8
  • Housing 4.55
  • Safety 4.85
Showing 9 - 16 of 132 reviews
Default avatar
Charlotte
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Volunteering with Engage in Palestine

My experience at Engage in Palestine exceeded all expectations!! I felt instantly welcomed from the moment I arrived in Palestine. It was easy to find the centre and my way around Hebron. I felt safe at all times, even walking alone. The family breakfasts at the centre made me feel at home instantly, every morning we share delicious food and stories and experiences with other volunteers. I have learnt so much from my experience with the centre, I was able to visit NGO's, Lawyers, Refugee camps and meet Palestinian families and understand their experiences. I would recommend this programme to anyone interested in experiencing Palestine, wanting to understand the situation here and wanting to engage in Palestinian culture!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Experience all of Palestine. The centre is very helpful in arranging travel and days out.
During my two weeks I travelled to Bethlehem, Jericho and Nablus. Make sure you plan to travel and see as much as Palestine as possible on your days off!
Pros
  • Pros Everyone is welcoming at the centre and all the locals in Hebron
  • Having the opportunity to speak to Palestinian families and understand their experience
  • The most delicious Knafeh
24 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Salam Charlotte,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Charlotte! We’re thrilled to hear that your experience at Engage in Palestine exceeded your expectations. It’s fantastic to know that you felt welcomed and safe from the moment you arrived and enjoyed the family breakfasts and interactions with fellow volunteers.

We’re glad you appreciated the opportunities to visit NGOs, meet Palestinian families, and gain deeper insights into the local culture and experiences.

Your recommendation means a lot to us. Thank you for sharing your positive experience, and we hope to see you again in the future, Charlotte!

Greetings from Palestine!

Default avatar
Charlotte
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Volunteer with Refugees - Engage in Palestine

My experience in Engage in Palestine exceeded all expectations!! I instantly received a warm welcome as soon as I arrived in Palestine. It was easy to find the centre and my way around Hebron, and I always felt safe, even walking alone. The family breakfasts every morning at the centre make you feel at home straight away, sharing delicious food and stories of experiences with other volunteers. I have learnt so much from my experience here, and am very grateful for the opportunities through the centre, visiting NGO's, law firms, refugee camps, and many Palestinian families. I would recommend this programme to anyone wanting to experience Palestine, understand the situation here and engage with Palestinian culture.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Make sure you plan to see more of Palestine. The centre is very helpful if you want to travel on your days off. During my two weeks I visited Jericho, Bethlehem and Nablus! I would recommend travelling and seeing as much as you can whilst in Palestine.
Pros
  • Everyone is welcoming at the centre and all the locals in Hebron
  • Having the opportunity to speak to Palestinian families and understand their experience
  • The most delicious Knafeh
15 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Charlotte! We’re thrilled to hear that your experience at Engage in Palestine exceeded your expectations. It’s fantastic to know that you felt welcomed and safe from the moment you arrived and enjoyed the family breakfasts and interactions with fellow volunteers.

We’re glad you appreciated the opportunities to visit NGOs, meet Palestinian families, and gain deeper insights into the local culture and experiences.

Your recommendation means a lot to us. Thank you for sharing your positive experience, and we hope to see you again in the future!

Greetings from Palestine!

Default avatar
Pearl
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Human Rights Internship In Hebron

Hello, My name is Pearl and I am a University student from the United States. I have spent the last 3 weeks in Hebron, West Bank with the Excellence Center and absolutely loved my experience. The level of hospitality that I have received is unmatched by any other country I have been to. The Palestinians are so friendly and eager to share their food and culture with you.
With the Excellence Center I received a week of intensive Arabic class that really helped me improve my speaking skills. After the week we transitioned into our Human Rights focus of the program where we meet with various people in the area who shared their experiences with us.
In regards to safety, as a foreigner it is quite safe for your here. within Hebron there are no issues of safety. Within the Israel you will need to pass checkpoints and see guards with large guns, but again, for foreigners it is no issue.

What was your funniest moment?
While staying in Hebron we were hosted by the Excellence centers staff and got to become very close with their two young children. They are some of the best kids I've every meet and I so much fun just hanging out with them
Pros
  • Learn Arabic
  • become more educated about the Palestinian experience
  • Eat Arab food
Cons
  • Language Barrier
  • It can be very hot in the summer
19 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Hello Pearl,

We’re delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience with The Excellence Center during your three weeks in Hebron! It’s wonderful to know that you felt the hospitality and friendliness of the Palestinian people were exceptional and that you enjoyed learning about our culture and cuisine.

We’re especially glad the intensive Arabic class was helpful in improving your speaking skills and that the transition into the Human Rights focus of the program provided valuable insights through meetings with local individuals. It’s also reassuring to hear that you felt safe throughout your stay, despite the presence of security measures. We thank you, Pearl, for sharing your experience and hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back in the future.

And until then, we send the warmest of greetings from Hebron, Palestine!

Default avatar
Hayden
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Human Rights internship at the Excellence Center in Hebron

My name is Hayden and I am a university student from the United States. I participated in the Human rights internship program at the Excellence Center for three weeks this summer. During this time we had the opportunity to meet with many people from the West Bank. From families living in H2 under Israeli authority to the Ministry of Education I was able to learn about a vast number of perspectives and experiences. I have been studying Arabic throughout high school and university and was eager to advance my fluency during my time here. The center provided us with an intensive Arabic class our first week to refresh our knowledge and accustom us to the local dialect. The classes were super helpful with a focus on speaking and ended with individual presentations in Arabic on a topic of your choice, mine being the scarcity of water in the West Bank.

A highlight of my time in Hebron has been the people that I have met, specifically at the center. Our host family, teachers, staff members, and other volunteers have been so nice and welcoming, making sure to check in on me and how I am doing and invite me to a lot of different events. The hospitality and kindness I have received here is like no other I have ever experienced.

Throughout my time here I was able to see many cities in Palestine including Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Ramallah, and Jericho. Traveling around the country was very easy and I never felt unsafe or in a dangerous position. Having an American passport brings one a lot of privileges in this country and allows me to never have to worry about my safety.

In the three weeks I have spent here I have learned so much about Palestinian culture and their struggle living under an occupation as well as their hope and determination. The center provides a safe, welcoming environment to get to learn about Palestine and I recommend coming here to anyone. I wish I was able to stay for longer.

18 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Salam dear Hayden,

It is great to hear that your three weeks with the Human Rights Internship program at The Excellence Center were so impactful. We are happy to know that you had the opportunity to meet a diverse range of people from the West Bank and gain valuable insights into their experiences, and it is also very good to hear that the intensive Arabic classes helped you advance your fluency and that the presentations, like yours on water scarcity, were a meaningful part of your learning.

We’re also glad that you felt welcomed and supported by our host family, teachers, staff, and fellow volunteers. Your positive experience with hospitality and the ease of traveling around Palestine is heartening to hear, especially as you go to explore so many cities and learn about Palestinian culture and resilience. Thank you for recommending our program, and we hope you’ll have the chance to return for an even longer stay in the future, Hayden!

Best of wishes and warm greetings from Hebron, Palestine!

Default avatar
Flynn
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

three week stay with the Excellence Center

being with the Excellence Center helped me a lot in many ways. with coming here, i hoped to get in touch with many palestinians, see many places and learn about the ongoing conflict. the Excellence Center made it possible for me to do all that and opened new doors. focusing on journalism, the Excellence Center introduced me to multiple journalists who could teach me about the situation and work of journalists.
within the Center i always felt comfortable. the staff as well as the other volunteers made me feel very comfortable and at home already after very few days.
to my surprise, i felt very safe. the Excellence Center made sure to minimize possible dangers and taught us about what to do and what not to do or where not to go. there are dangers of course, it is a conflict area, but the staff makes sure you don't get in trouble. i felt safe all the time.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
join the program and come to this place with an open mind, be open towards the people in the center and in Palestine and faster than you can realize you will feel home and make many new friends.
Pros
  • the feeling of community
  • the feeling of being taken care of
  • the interesting and enriching program
Cons
  • the language barrier (which isn't really a con because there is always someone helping out)
21 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Salam Flynn,

We’re delighted to hear that your experience with The Excellence Center was so fulfilling and that we were able to help you connect with Palestinians, explore various places, and gain insight into the ongoing conflict. It’s great to know that our focus on journalism provided valuable connections and learning opportunities for you.

Ensuring your safety and well-being is a top priority for us, and we’re glad that our efforts to minimize risks and provide guidance made you feel secure throughout your stay. And so, we thank you for sharing your experience, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back in the future Flynn!

Kind regards from Hebron, Palestine!

Default avatar
Albert
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The Beautiful Heart of the Palestinian People

My name is Albert Kim. I’m 39 years old. I was born in Seoul, South Korea and have lived in the New York City area since moving there at age two. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Technological Entrepreneurship & Management from Arizona State University. I’ve worked in tech, pastry arts, tutoring, and as a traveling monastic. I participated in the Volunteering with Refugees program in May of 2024.

Palestine was a life-changing experience for me in many ways. Number one, I was able to experience first-hand some semblance of what it’s like to live as a Palestinian. The plight of the Palestinian people has been dear to my heart for many years. To actually be here on the ground with the people, be immersed in the culture and in everyday life, to listen to people’s stories and struggles and to participate in these struggles myself at times was an honor and a blessing. My perspective on the Palestinian-Israeli situation has been imbued with much richness and depth.

I lived in a nicely-appointment apartment in Hebron, roughly thirty minutes walking from the Excellence Center. I regularly encountered friendly and curious locals who inquired into my origins, the reason for my stay in Hebron and so forth. The Palestinian people, in Hebron in particular, are the most welcoming and loving I’ve come across in the twenty countries I’ve traveled to. I lost count long ago of the number of complimentary coffees, teas, sweets, dinners and other gifts I received simply for my presence.

I was typically told by others to be careful when mentioning my trip to Palestine. Very sensical response especially in the current climate. However, I found myself feeling safe and secure in Palestine overall, whether in the touristy parts of Bethlehem or in the back alleys of late-night Hebron. Highlights of my travels outside of Hebron include the Wall in Bethlehem and Martyr’s Square in Nablus.

The Excellence Center is well-run by Osama and Marwa, offering numerous programs to suit the different needs and desires of prospective volunteers and students. I appreciated their flexibility in tailoring their programs for each volunteer. I found the tours and visits I participated in to be valuable. My visits to Al-Fawwar Refugee Camp stood out as particularly noteworthy. I had the most delicious Palestinian food during a visit with a refugee family there, then was guided on a tour of the camp and its history. I was also able to teach English to women and children at the girls’ school on a few occasions which I enjoyed.

Coming to the center everyday at 10am for group breakfast was a wonderful part of the daily routine. Everyone had the chance to mingle, bond, and plan their day together before going off on their individual schedules. I enjoyed swapping stories and perspectives and working and playing together with my cohort of fellow volunteers and students.
My Arabic tutor Duha was very competent and professional. I was able to hit the ground running, speaking with locals in Arabic on the day of our very first lesson together. When she asked whether I wanted the lessons to focus on the alphabet or conversation for our twelve hours, I replied “both”, and she accommodated well, providing me a foundation on which I feel confident learning on my own. I’m now able to read and write Arabic and have basic conversations.

Osama and Marwa are friendly and loving and helped make my stint with the Center a fruitful one. There’s a real family feel to the place, with friends and relatives regularly stopping in, saying hello, sharing meals. Frequently while speaking with locals around town I mentioned the Center and people were familiar.

The students I taught English to were so great. They were such enthusiastic learners, especially from someone like me! It was cool to be greeted by a student speaking Korean to me. My interactions with my students were likely my favorite part of my journey here. There’s so much life, love, joy, hope, and wonder in them. They are the future of Palestine and I believe this future will be bright. I’d like to stay in contact with them — helping them with English, maybe improving my Arabic, hearing about their lives, supporting them where I can.

I was asked if I’d return to Palestine one day. I do my best not to make promises I’m unable to keep. However, after my experience here — and especially with the children of Palestine — I can say that if I had to return to one country I’ve visited, Palestine would be near the top of my list. The hearts of the Palestinian people are open and my heart is open to them.

20 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Salam dear Albert,

We’re deeply touched to hear how transformative your experience at The Excellence Center was. It’s wonderful to know that immersing yourself in Palestinian culture, listening to personal stories, and participating in daily life has enriched your understanding and perspective. Your reflections on the warmth and generosity of the people you met sound like a true highlight of the deep connections you made during your time here, and we are proud to hear that

We are glad that you found the apartment accommodations comfortable and appreciated the flexibility of our programs. Most importantly, it is fantastic to hear that your Arabic lessons with Duha provided a solid foundation and that you enjoyed teaching English and connecting with the students. Your enthusiasm and dedication have clearly made a significant impact. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you back in the future, and we’re grateful for your willingness to stay connected and support the community. Thank you for sharing your experience so thoughtfully, Albert.

We hope to see you again one day, and until then - Kindest greetings from Hebron, Palestine!

Default avatar
Alexa
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Palestine Stole My Heart

I'll never be the same after this experience in Palestine. The people have stolen a big piece of my heart forever. From the moment I entered the Excellence Center to my last tear-filled day, I was loved and supported from all members of the center as well my host family and local community. It is definitely a different experience being here during a 'war', things are a bit slower, not as many celebrations, but simply being here gives you so much insight into the daily life of Palestinians and the resilience they display while living under an unjust and horrific occupation.

I was able to learn more about the conflict between the occupiers (Israel) and the occupied (Palestine) and dip my toes into the human rights world with the human rights program here. I absolutely wish I was able to meet with more local organizations that focused on the human rights abuses of the occupation forces but I know this is a very unique time in Palestine. So I recommend for those that come and do the human rights program, do your research on organizations here and let the center know that you'd like to set up meetings with them. The center will do everything in their power to connect you with the right people. It might be more challenging during the current situation, but all efforts will be made to give you the best experience.

I'm having a hard time accepting the fact that I'm leaving Palestine in less than 24 hours, but I know I will be back, and inshallah (God willing) it will be for even longer than this 2-month visit. I'm leaving a big piece of my heart here in Palestine with the people that have truly become my family. There is no place like Palestine. It will inspire you, break your heart, and remind you of what true humanity looks like all in the same moment. Don't pass up an opportunity to come here, you'll be forever changed.

28 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Salam Alexa,

Thank you so much for your deeply moving review. We are truly touched to hear how your experience with The Excellence Center in Palestine has profoundly impacted you. It’s heartwarming to know that you felt loved and supported by everyone at the center, your host family, and the local community. We understand that being here during such challenging times offers unique insights into daily life and the incredible resilience of the Palestinian people.

We also appreciate your feedback about connecting with local human rights organizations. We strive to facilitate these connections and will continue to do our best to support future participants in navigating these opportunities, even amidst difficult circumstances. Your advice to research and communicate your interests is valuable for those joining the human rights program. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future and are excited about the prospect of your next visit being even more enriching. Once again, thank you, Alexa, for sharing your experience and allowing us to be a part of your journey.

Very kind regards from Hebron, Palestine!

Default avatar
Mayu
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

my experience in palestina

I’m Mayu from Tokyo, Japan and I joined the refugees in Palestine program.
I had incredible opportunities during my time here to visit refugee camps and learn Palestinian history. I also had many opportunities to learn about the Palestinian culture and Arabic language. I wish I could stay longer to learn more.
The most surprising part of this program for me was how safe it is here. Most of the public information I got in Japan from the media discouraged me from coming here. Despite this, I felt as safe and welcomed here as I do when I’m in Japa

What was your funniest moment?
visiting people at the refugee camp
27 people found this review helpful.
Response from The Excellence Center

Hello Mayu,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review!

We’re delighted to hear that your time with the Refugees in Palestine program was so enriching. It is lovely to know that you had the chance to prosper through the visits to the refugee camps, delving into Palestinian history, and immersing yourself in the culture and Arabic language. Your enthusiasm for wanting to stay longer is a testament to the value of your experience.

We’re especially pleased to hear that you felt safe and welcomed throughout your stay, despite the concerns you had about media coverage. It’s our goal to ensure that everyone feels secure and at home while they are here. Thank you for sharing your positive experience and for trusting us with your journey. We hope to welcome you back in the future Mayu!

Kindest regards from Hebron, Palestine!

Questions & Answers