What is it like studying at the University of Haifa?

Studying here at the top of Mount Carmel is an incredible experience. We’re surrounded by beautiful nature, and academically and professionally, we have some of the best people around us. 

What I really appreciate about the university is that people here don’t just think, they question. They challenge ideas, ask difficult questions, and use their minds to find solutions to complex problems. I believe this is one of the most crucial times for Israel and for Jews around the world to ask questions, think critically, and take responsibility for our homeland and its future.

Academically, we have some of the best lecturers in Israel, who are there to guide, support, and mentor us throughout our studies. The combination of academic excellence, professional opportunities, incredible people, and the environment here makes this university a truly special place to study.

What are you studying?

I am pursuing a B.A. in Political Science and International Relations and am about to enter my third year.

I’m also getting many academic and professional opportunities through the university. Right now, I work for the Department of Resource Development on the U.S. Desk, which has given me valuable professional experience and the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful.

What do you see for yourself after you graduate?

My dream is to become a diplomat representing Israel, with the long-term goal of being stationed in North America and working closely with Jewish communities there. This aspiration is deeply influenced by my experience as an Israeli shaliach (emissary). I spent a year in St. Louis, USA working through the Jewish Agency, where I focused on education and strengthening the local Jewish community’s connection to Israel.

I feel that there has been a significant negative shift in attitudes toward Israel and Zionism, including within parts of the Jewish community. I want to represent Israel in a positive and responsible way and help people better understand the reality on the ground here.

I believe the situation is not black and white. There are so many different layers, perspectives, and complexities that need to be understood before having meaningful conversations about Israel. I think it’s important to be educated, informed, and nuanced when discussing these issues, because many people simply don’t understand the full picture.

I want to be someone who can help bridge that gap, someone who can listen, engage with difficult questions, and communicate Israel’s reality and complexities to people who may not have experienced them firsthand. Ultimately, I want to use diplomacy, communication, and education to build greater understanding between Israel and Jewish communities around the world.

What inspired your Zionism?

My Zionism is rooted in my belief that we as Jews don’t have any other place where we are welcomed or want to be – historically, culturally, or ethnically.

My participation in the Bnei HaMoshavim youth movement also had a huge influence.The friendships I made and the connections I built through the movement shaped me in so many ways.

I think the young people who participate in youth movements are truly exceptional. The values you develop through these experiences, Zionism, solidarity, leadership, and responsibility, are incredibly important. So many young people have the opportunity through these movements to grow into impressive and engaged adults.

For me, Bnei HaMoshavim was where I learned the importance of community and of taking responsibility for the people around you.

Tell us about your military service.

During my military service, I served as a combat soldier in the Bardelas Battalion and as a drivers’ platoon sergeant, commanding a team of 18 male and female soldiers. In that role, I was responsible not only for our operational readiness and equipment, but also for the welfare and well-being of the soldiers under my command.

I was stationed along Israel’s borders with Egypt and Jordan, as well as in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank). My service exposed me to a wide range of operational challenges, from preventing smuggling and protecting the border to dealing with unusual incidents like exotic animals. The Egyptian border was particularly challenging. On one occasion, our unit intercepted an attempt to smuggle approximately 500 pounds of cannabis across the border.

Beyond the operational experiences, one of the most meaningful aspects of my military service was seeing young adults take on such significant responsibility at such an early stage of their lives. At a time when young people are sometimes described as the “TikTok generation” or characterized as being more self-focused, I have seen a very different side of my generation in Israel. Young Israelis dedicate years of their lives to serving the country, making personal sacrifices, taking responsibility for others, and being ready to step forward when their country needs them.