Student Life
Living in Kibbutz Ketura
Facilities
During the course participants will live in the Arava Institute’s student dorms in Kibbutz Ketura. Student will share bedrooms, 2 in a room and 4-8 in a suite. Per student requests we will try to allocate all men or all women suites.
Students dine in the kibbutz dining room with kibbutz members. The kibbutz serves three meals a day except on Shabbat, when breakfast is not served. The dining room is kosher and vegetarian options are available for all meals.
Most of the indoor studies are done in a classroom a few minutes' walk from the dorms.
Students are welcome to use kibbutz facilities according to regulations. These include a swimming pool; library; sports facilities for tennis, basketball and soccer; etc.
Synagogue
Kibbutz Ketura is a tolerant, pluralistic community with an informal relationship with the Conservative / Masorti movement. The course does not include any required activities for Shabbat. All food provided in the kibbutz dining room as well as on field trips is kosher.
Kibbutz Ketura has a synagogue active on Shabbat (Friday evening and Saturday). Men and women both lead components of the services, and sit together.
Field Trips
The program includes many field trips. Due to the daytime temperature we aim to start our trips as early as possible. Most trips days start at 5:30 am. Participation in the field trips and all outdoor educational activities are required; students who fail to participate in these activities without a justified reason will not complete their requirements for a grade in the course.
Environmental Conditions
The Arava Valley is one of the hottest places in Israel. During the month of June daytime temperatures easily reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Centigrade).
Sun radiation in the Arava in very high. Students are strongly encouraged to protect themselves from the sun using sunscreen, long sleeves, light and airy clothing, sunglasses and hats.
All rooms and classrooms are air-conditioned.