The Case to Study in Israel

As I have now arrived at my mid-20s, I am quickly realizing that life comes down to choices. Some of them are big. Some of them are small. And sometimes, the biggest decisions come down to something that might seem trivial in the moment but ultimately shape the trajectory of your entire life.

For me, one of those decisions was whether to return to the United States after a gap year following high school or to take a leap and study in Israel. I found myself having lunch with a co-worker this past week and she asked me how long I have been in Israel to which I replied, “almost 7 years” I couldn’t believe the words coming out of my mouth.

How did the younger, less mature version of myself make that plunge and move to the Middle East just like that?

It wasn’t easy. It was uncomfortable. It was inconvenient. But that discomfort has led me to some of the best opportunities, the best people, and the best experiences I could have ever hoped for.

Antisemitism on US Campuses: Stop Hitting Snooze

If you’re Jewish and in the US or honestly anywhere on social media, you’ve likely seen it. Antisemitism is a scourge that’s booming on college campuses. There may be even worse incidents unfolding on Columbia’s lawns and similar colleges, but what’s even more alarming to me are the less-reported occurrences: casual antisemitic slurs shouted on buses, professor-driven, anti-Israel propaganda, and even physical attacks. These, in my view, are far more unsettling than the events that make it onto television. According to a StopAntisemitism survey, over 70% of Jewish students report feeling unwelcome on US campuses. We’ve all heard the stories: Verbal assaults, vandalism, and worse. These incidents are happening at places that should feel like safe spaces for young adults figuring out their lives. Instead, they’re increasingly hostile.

I get it- studying in the US offers comfort, familiarity, and, of course, the prestige of an American university emblazoned on a sweatshirt. But if you’re a Jewish student, what if the answer isn’t to stay in a place that’s becoming more unwelcoming but to step into a space that’s not only welcoming but alive with history, innovation, and rich culture.

Enter Israel. Israel is not only the Jewish homeland but also a hub of innovation. Universities like Tel Aviv University, Hebrew University, Technion, and Reichman University are becoming increasingly prominent in fields like technology, entrepreneurship, and science. But more than that, Israel offers young Jewish students a connection to their roots, their people, and a diverse culture.

The Big Move

When I decided to forgo moving to Waltham, Massachusetts, to study at Brandeis University and instead venture to Herzliya—a place I had never even heard of—I was filled with fear. I didn’t know very many people and being in a foreign country, away from the comforts of home, is simply uncomfortable. I was out of my depth. The language barrier, the cultural differences, the need to connect to others around; it all hit hard at first. But that’s the thing about discomfort. It forces you to grow. It pushes you to adapt. And often, that’s where the magic happens.

Uncomfortable = Unbelievable Opportunity

In Israel, I have had to push myself. But that discomfort, that feeling of not knowing what comes next, opened doors. Fast forward a few years, and I can tell you that studying in Israel led to some of the most amazing things in my life.

I have made some lifelong friends, making the journey more meaningful. Working in Israel, I’ve had the chance to contribute to a vibrant, growing economy, one that’s home to some of the most innovative tech companies on the planet fueled by a second to none startup scene. And most importantly I met my fiancé here which is truly the best thing that has ever happened to me.

Being in a smaller, more tight-knit environment means you’re expected to take on responsibility early and often, I was given more responsibility here, and that has pushed me to deliver, learn, and grow in ways I never expected.

Israel’s Market Opportunity: The Next Wave of Growth

Studying in Israel isn’t just a personal decision- it’s also a professional one. In the land of innovation, there is a huge opportunity for growth. Despite Israel’s strong R&D sector (where more talent is needed as well), there’s a missing link: sales and marketing expertise. That’s where students from places like the US come in.

Israel’s high-tech sector is booming. But the country still needs people who can bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and market success. This market is ripe for students who are skilled in areas like business development, client relations, and global marketing. With more expertise in business strategy, sales, and marketing, Israeli companies can expand into international markets, particularly into the US Israel needs you- the US educated student- to help make that connection.

Students from abroad have a knack for understanding consumer behavior, navigating corporate environments, and pushing products into new markets. This is precisely the type of talent Israel needs to continue its growth and to create global companies. Studying in Israel isn’t just helping or inspiring yourself; you’re helping the country grow into its full potential as a global economic player.

As Ilya A. Strebulaev, Stanford Professor and a leading expert on venture capital and entrepreneurial finance, highlights¹, Israel is a leader in early-stage venture capital, but the country still struggles to scale its companies globally. Strebulaev, whose research bridges the worlds of academic theory and practical application in venture ecosystems, emphasizes that Israel’s thriving startup ecosystem, valued at over $100 billion, continues to attract global attention. This is evidenced by the return of venture leaders like Sequoia & Greylock to the country in recent months. However, he notes that to reach its true potential, Israeli startups need to leverage not only their remarkable R&D capabilities but also expand into international markets—a critical area where foreign students and professionals can contribute by bringing diverse perspectives and networks.

2025: The Year of Educational Aliyah

As of December 31, 2024, Israel’s population has surpassed 10 million. This milestone reflects the nation’s growth and its continued role as a center for Jewish life and education. For Jewish students seeking a sense of community and safety, Israel offers a sanctuary for learning and growth. The opportunity for educational Aliyah has never been greater.

Israel is investing heavily in programs that make it easier for students to study here. Through initiatives like Masa and Nefesh B’Nefesh, students can receive scholarships and housing support. These programs provide access to top universities, internships, and even pathways to employment in Israel’s startup nation.

Call to Action

The personal growth, the opportunities, and the connections I’ve made in Israel are priceless. I want other Jewish students to experience the same transformation I did.

It’s time to think beyond the US college experience. Israel isn’t just another option—it’s the place where your personal and professional growth can explode. So, if you’re on the fence, remember: discomfort breeds growth. And Israel? Israel will push you out of your comfort zone in the best possible way.

Let 2025 be the year you take the leap.

-J

Notes

1. The Evolution of Israel as a Global Startup Hub (2023), Forbes – Ilya A. Strebulaev