Hebrew by Heart: A Language Journey from Vermont to Israel

Discover the most effective way to advance your Modern Hebrew: a unique program that combines two weeks of intensive study at the Middlebury School of Hebrew in Middlebury, Vermont, followed by an immersive journey through Israel led by Melton Travel. Drawing on Melton’s decades of experience leading meaningful Jewish educational journeys around the world, this program is thoughtfully designed to integrate meaningful learning with lived experience. 

Middlebury’s world-class approach to language acquisition—anchored by the Language Pledge®—ensures you’ll read, write, listen, and speak exclusively in Hebrew, accelerating your fluency in a supportive, dynamic environment. Your studies at Middlebury will prepare you to meet and interact with diverse groups within Israel and to view the culture in a new light, all through the lens of the Hebrew language! After your time studying at Middlebury, you’ll take your skills beyond the classroom and travel to Israel with Melton to experience Hebrew in real life.

In Israel, each day will begin with an hour of interactive Hebrew learning led by Melton instructors, followed by cultural experiences that bring the language to life. You’ll engage with Israelis from diverse backgrounds, savor the flavors of multiple culinary traditions, and explore vibrant markets, boutique wineries, Arab and Druze villages, kibbutzim, and moshavim. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, you’ll uncover the stories, sounds, and rhythms that define this extraordinary land—all while living in Hebrew.

Along the way, you’ll share meals, cook together, laugh, and learn in authentic settings that deepen both your linguistic and cultural understanding.

Eligibility

Hebrew for Heart participants should have an intermediate or advanced level of Modern Hebrew. If you are a Hebrew beginner, please contact us to discuss options for your participation. You may also apply to Middlebury’s 3-week Immersion Program (June 26 - July 17) prior to the start of Hebrew by Heart in order to build your proficiency.

Dates

July 20, 2026 - August 13, 2026

Middlebury portion: July 20 - August 2, 2026

Participants will arrive on Middlebury’s campus in Middlebury, Vermont on Monday, July 20, 2026. Tuesday, July 21, will be an orientation day conducted in English. From July 22 to August 2, participants will take part in the School of Hebrew at Middlebury. Middlebury is responsible for academic programming, supervision, housing, and on-campus student support through this portion of the experience up until the conclusion of programming on August 2.

Melton portion: August 3 - August 13, 2026

On August 3, participants depart Middlebury for the Israel portion of the program. On that day, responsibility for participant supervision, custody, travel logistics, and program oversight transfer fully to Melton. Melton will manage all travel to Israel and will assume sole responsibility for participants during international transit and throughout the Israel-portion of the program. Upon arrival in Israel, participants will be met at the airport by Melton representatives and will continue their linguistic journey in Israel under Melton’s guidance through its conclusion on August 13, 2026.

Cost

Total Cost: $16,070 ($18,220 for single occupancy)

• Middlebury portion: $4,075 per person* (includes tuition, room and board fee)
• Melton portion: $11,995 per person (includes lodging, most meals, activities, and events in Israel. Airfare and additional travel expenses are not included. Based on double occupancy. Additional $2,150 for single occupancy)

*Participants are not eligible for Middlebury’s financial aid.

Highlights:

• Two weeks of focused Hebrew study located on the Middlebury College campus
• Small classes and personalized instruction with accompanying co-curricular cultural activities
• A vibrant community of language learners
• Daily interactive Hebrew lessons with trained faculty while in Israel
• Five-star hotels in Israel and planned travel
• Authentic cultural experiences, including:
• Conversing with different local groups in Hebrew
• Exploring markets, villages, cities, and local businesses
• Connecting Hebrew learning in class with real-life in-person experiences
• Savoring diverse culinary, artistic, and musical traditions
• And much more!

Registration and Payment

Participants register and pay for “Hebrew by Heart” entirely through the Melton Travel website:

1. Submit the online application through Melton Travel website
2. A representative from both Melton and Middlebury will reach out to you for introductory conversations about the program
3. Middlebury will schedule a brief Hebrew language interview with each registrant for level placement
4. You will receive an email either confirming your acceptance into the program or to ask follow-up questions to clarify your participation

Contact

If you are interested in receiving more information or joining our mailing list, please reach out to Elizabeth Gerner.