Amer Swatera, a second-year political science student at University of Haifa from Maghar, a small town in northern Israel home to Muslims, Christians and Druze, is balancing his studies with a career as an IT team leader. With a passion for diplomacy and a wealth of life experience, Amer brings focus, curiosity, and dedication to both the classroom and his future ambitions in the Foreign Service. He sat down with AFUH to talk about his experience at the University and his plans for the future.

What made you want to study Political Science at University of Haifa?

I’m studying political science because I want to become a diplomat one day. There’s something about diplomacy that’s crucial for connecting countries. I truly believe diplomacy is the best way to make peace. I also work here in Haifa, leading a team in the IT department, so being at the University allows me to balance work and study.

How has your experience been so far?

After finishing 12 years of school, I worked in IT and studied web development. I didn’t start my studies immediately; I waited until I was 30. I needed to save money so I could pay for tuition, rent, and my car without relying on my parents. Now, I’m in a place where I can work, study, and balance life. Being older is an advantage—I have life experience, and I know what I want. I’m studying something I love and genuinely having fun in class. My grades reflect my focus and dedication; I don’t need to study excessively because when I do, I’m hyper-focused and absorb everything.

What has your interaction with teachers been like?

My teachers love me, probably because of my IT background. Whenever there’s a tech issue, they come to me for help. I also ask a lot of questions in class—but only when relevant—and I can tell they appreciate it. I really enjoy learning from them.

How do you view your identity as a Druze student?

That’s a complicated question. I have mixed feelings. Whenever I can, I introduce myself as Druze because it seems people take me more seriously. At University, you notice differences: many Arab students come straight from school at 18, without army experience, and they still have a kind of childhood innocence. I feel I have more life experience in comparison, which has helped me navigate my studies and the environment.

What are your future plans?

I’m planning to enroll in the Foreign Service. I recently graduated from a Stand With Us fellowship (SWU), which was an amazing experience. It taught me a lot about myself, especially public speaking—I had never stood in front of an audience in English before, and it’s my third language. I also gained hands-on experience as an interviewer, connecting with people from different backgrounds, including Bedouin communities in Israel. The program pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to learn from impressive people from all walks of life.