When a direct Iranian ballistic missile strike reduced his family’s Haifa apartment to ashes this June, University of Haifa student Liad Abada didn’t have the luxury of falling apart. A first-year public administration student and IDF reservist, Liad helped evacuate neighbors, assist first responders, and support his mother through layers of trauma and bureaucracy—all while studying for seven final exams. 

Why did you choose to enroll at University of Haifa?

I was born and raised in Haifa, so it seemed like the most logical and natural fit for me. I’ve also always known it as one of the best universities in Israel. But it’s more than that—this is a place that represents the kind of coexistence I believe in. Honestly, I never imagined I’d go into academia. But one day, something just clicked. I applied on a whim after I realized I wanted to learn how to contribute, not just to have a job, but to build something meaningful for society. My dream is to one day create a network for social education, to help people like me.

What are you studying, and why?

I’m enrolled in a two-year Public Administration degree. It feels like exactly the right field for this moment. It helps me understand how systems work, how to manage social and government institutions, and how to support people in need. Especially after everything that happened, I feel like this is the path I’m meant to be on.

Can you share with us about the day your apartment was destroyed?

I was in a nearby shelter when the missile hit. A few minutes later, I got a call from my mother. She was crying and screaming, “We lost the house.” My friend drove me to see it for myself. When I got there, the building was on fire. Tires outside were burning, smoke was everywhere, and explosions were still going off. We had to evacuate the neighbors, and I helped guide the rescue teams through the structure because I knew the layout. It was terrifying—but I knew I had to act.

That’s an incredibly brave response in a moment of crisis. Where did that come from?

From my military service. I learned how to stay calm, assess the situation, and take responsibility. There wasn’t time to break down. I had to help however I could. It’s what I was trained to do.

Where are you living now?

Right now, my family and I are living in a hotel. We’re still looking for an apartment. Everything in our home was destroyed. We salvaged what we could—some tiles, a few belongings—but it’s all gone.

Has the University supported you during this time?

Absolutely. They didn’t wait for me to come to them—they reached out right away. They helped release me from reserve duty so I could focus on my studies. They took me by the hand and brought me to the right offices. They’ve supported me academically and emotionally in every way possible.

You mentioned you had seven exams. How are you managing that?

It’s very hard. Between the trauma, the bureaucracy, and helping my mom, I’ve barely had time to study. I also lost a job opportunity because I was called up to reserve duty. But I made a decision—I’m showing up to my exams. If I don’t pass one, I’ll retake it. I won’t give up.

What keeps you going?

This country. We only have one. Whether you’re coming from the battlefield or sitting in class, you have to keep moving forward. We need to support our students, our soldiers, our communities. I believe in staying strong—not just for myself, but for the people around me.

What do you hope to do after graduating from University of Haifa?

I want to work in public service and social campaigns. I want to help people navigate complex systems and make their lives easier. Bureaucracy can be overwhelming, especially for those in crisis. I want to be the one who helps carry that burden, so others don’t have to face it alone.