Photos and quotes by Genesis alumni about their Genesis summer.

BIMA

Frequently Asked Questions



When does Genesis take place?
Summer 2010 dates are Tuesday July 6th - Thursday August 5th.

How do I apply to Genesis?
The Genesis application will be available on our website (How to Apply) in early November.  We ask for your high school transcript, two personal statements, and recommendations from a teacher and your parents. 

Who can attend Genesis?
You are eligible to apply to Genesis if you are entering 10th - 12th grade in the fall of 2009. Applications must be supported by thoughtful personal statements, recommendation letters and a high school transcript.

What is the tuition and what does it cover?
Genesis tuition includes instruction, food, housing, field trips, and recreational activities.  Tuition does not cover transportation to and from the program.  Genesis tuition is significantly subsidized by an endowment established by Shirley and Milton Gralla and other generous donors.  Summer 2010 tuition is $4600.

Is financial aid available?
Additional need-based financial aid is available thanks to the generosity of Shirley and Milton Gralla’s Genesis Financial Aid Fund. Financial aid applications are considered separately from admissions applications.  Other scholarships may be available through your local community.  Genesis partners with the Foundation for Jewish Camp to offer a small number of incentive scholarships for participants who have never previously attended a Jewish summer overnight camp. More information is found in the “How to Apply” section.

Who are the other participants in the program?
Genesis is a coeducational program that seeks to bring together participants from different backgrounds and experiences. Participants come from all over the United States, Canada, Israel, Russia, and other countries with diverse educational experiences, family backgrounds, and previous experience with Judaism.

Do you have to be Jewish to attend?
In accordance with the principles of Brandeis University, Genesis is a non-sectarian program, with the primary requirement for entry being an eagerness to learn and participate in our community.  Genesis welcomes participants from all backgrounds and previous experience with Judaism.

How will I get to Brandeis?
You can arrive by car, plane or train. Genesis staff will be at the airport and train station and will provide transportation from Logan International Airport and the Route 128 Amtrak Station. Participants make their own travel arrangements.

Where will I live and where do I eat?
You will live in double occupancy rooms in two single-sex dormitories. You will eat in the dining hall on campus and kosher dining is available at all meals.

What is BIMA, Brandeis’ other summer program for high school students?
BIMA at Brandeis University is a summer arts institute for high school students. BIMA participants are talented high school artists who will pursue one of five arts majors: film, music (instrumental and choral), writing, visual arts and theater.  BIMA is structured similarly to Genesis with workshops and a program of community education.

BIMA runs parallel to Genesis with points of interaction between the two programs.  BIMA and Genesis participants live in the same residence halls (one male, one female) on separate floors.  Additionally, BIMA and Genesis have the opportunity to interact around the planning and celebration of Shabbat and certain areas of community life.

More information about BIMA is available at its website:  www.brandeis.edu/bima

How do I contact Genesis?
Phone:    (781) 736-8416
Fax:        (815) 301-2874
Email:     genesis@brandeis.edu

Genesis at Brandeis University
415 South Street MS 065
Waltham, MA 02454-9110