Extracurricular Activities
Student life in both Tel Aviv and New York City extends beyond the classroom and students in the Dual Degree Program have the option to pursue a wide range of activities on campus and in the larger communities at both Tel Aviv University and Columbia.
Extracurriculars at TAU
The Student Union is one of the most active bodies on TAU campus and offers its services in both Hebrew and English, which may include private tutoring, legal support, extracurricular activities and more. The Buddy System is a project created in collaboration with the TAU Student Union and is geared toward international students with the goal of creating a multicultural and integrated campus for students by students. For more information email: [email protected].
Model UN is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate participants about current events, selected topics in international relations, diplomacy, and the United Nations agenda. The participants role-play diplomats representing a country or NGO in a simulated committee session of the United Nations, such as the Security Council, or the General Assembly. Participants research a country, take on roles as diplomats, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems. For more information and registration, please contact: [email protected].
The TAU LGBTQ group is home to all gay, lesbian, bi, trans, queers and questioning friends. Weekly meetings and activities are held on a variety of topics. Most of the weekly meetings are in Hebrew, with all other activities conducted in English and Hebrew. Students are welcome to sign up for the group’s mailing list here (in Hebrew).
Sports Center at TAU
In addition to a free training room available in the Einstein Student Dormitories, TAU has an on-campus state-of-the-art sports facility that includes 3 swimming pools, basketball and tennis courts, running track, fitness room and numerous classes to join.
Sports Clubs
The Student Union offers a variety of sports clubs and events. For more information visit: https://www.student.co.il/en/sections/9.
Extracurriculars at Columbia
Since learning continues beyond the classroom, Columbia University encourages students to become involved in extracurricular programs and activities that enhance their educational experience and personal growth. A wide range of student organizations address both personal and professional interests in the arts, politics, identity, culture, sports and recreation, and religion, all of which provide opportunities to enrich student life, the Columbia community, and Columbia's New York neighbors.
Student Organizations
More than 500 student organizations are open to Dual Degree Program students. Students are encouraged to attend the annual Activities Day event held at the beginning of each fall semester on Low Plaza, which provides an opportunity to find out more about campus organizations and meet with representatives.
Student activities at Columbia are primarily created and managed by students. In addition, the GS Office of the Dean of Students hosts a number of events and programs each semester to foster campus involvement and community. Student events are hosted both on and off campus and Lerner Hall, the Columbia University Student Center, is the venue for many student activities. Any student interested in forming a new organization is encouraged to contact the Office of the Dean of Students.
The Peter J. Awn Lounge, on the 3rd floor of Lewisohn Hall, serves as a gathering place for student events. The Lounge, which contains six computer terminals and printers, also provides GS students with a space to study and socialize.
Student Government
Every spring the undergraduate population of GS elects members to represent them in the General Studies Student Council (GSSC). The GSSC pursues academic, political, social and administrative initiatives, and serves as a liaison between the student body and the GS administration as well as other University offices and student organizations.
Mentorship and Peer Advising
In addition to the comprehensive advising offered by their GS academic advisors through all four years of the program, Dual Degree students in years three and four also have access to the GS Peer Advisors. Peer Advisors are undergraduate students who wish to provide support and advice for other GS undergrads about the opportunities and challenges at Columbia. Peer Advisors are available to discuss academics, campus resources, personal concerns, and the transition to the School of General Studies.
Peer Advisors are available to meet with students by appointment, and they also hold weekly walk-in hours in the GS Lounge.
Students also have access to the GS Mentor Program, which pairs specially-trained continuing undergraduate and Postbac Premed students with incoming students on the basis of several criteria including majors or premedical tracks, interests, and backgrounds. Mentors meet with their mentees at regular intervals throughout their first semester.
Dual Degree Program students may apply to become Peer Advisors or Mentors in advance of their fourth year.
Greek Life
Greek life has been part of Columbia for more than 160 years. Today, more than 20 single-sex and coed Greek chapters can be found on campus, most of which are affiliated with national organizations. Sororities and fraternities at Columbia are open to every full-time undergraduate in any division of the University. Students have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with various chapters on campus during each organization's recruiting program.
Athletics and Fitness
Dodge Physical Fitness Center serves the recreational, instructional, and competitive interests and needs of the Columbia community. It includes a tri-level cardiovascular and strength training center with state-of-the-art exercise equipment; a 0.1 mile indoor track; two gymnasiums suitable for basketball, volleyball, badminton, indoor soccer, and floor hockey; an 8-lane, 25-yard pool and diving area; squash and handball courts; two tennis courts; and locker and sauna facilities. A staff of qualified personal trainers can help students design and implement an individualized exercise program.
Physical Education courses are offered every semester and students may elect to take up to two points of physical education for academic credit.
Dual Degree Program students may be eligible for intercollegiate sports teams, as well as club sports, including rugby, lacrosse, water polo, and sailing, among many others.