At The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, global learning thrives through its exchange programs led by the International Office. With a wide array of options, students can study at one of the 200 leading academic institutions in the world, spending a semester or year abroad and earning credits recognized by Hebrew University.

 

This year, despite the hardship of the ongoing conflict, and thanks to the generous scholarships offered by the Schulich Foundation, 15 students were selected for the fall 2024/25 semester exchange in Canada.

 

On July 4 we chatted with a few second-year BA students of various disciplines, on an Orientation Day organized by the International Office, in preparation for their transformative journey abroad. Among the eager participants were Edo Bornstein (Physics and Mathematics) and Naomi Turetzky (Philosophy, Economics, and Political Science), a couple embarking on their exchange at the University of Toronto; Roee Hasid (Law and Economics) who’s delving into Law at York University in Toronto; Abed El Kareem Nassar (Electrical and Computer Engineering) who is looking forward to studying at McGill University in Montreal; and Matan Pasternak (Electrical Engineering and Computer Science), headed for the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

 

Engaging with the Canadian Embassy

Mr. Jean-Denis Dufour, Trade Commissioner from the Embassy of Canada to Israel, shared insights crucial for the students’ cultural and academic preparation. Another session featured Mr. Yair Paz from Globaleyes, offering Cross-Cultural and Global Soft Skills Training, and Mr. Uri Carmeli, Director of Hebrew University – Hillel in Jerusalem, introducing the Hillel “Boost” Program.

 

 

Creating a strong network of alumni is one of Hebrew University’s main priorities, and this agenda is even more important when going global. To support the new cohort of exchange students going to Canada, an integral part of the preparation involved bringing them together with recent alumni of the program. The alumni shared their personal experiences, highlighting this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture, improve their English skills, and make lasting friendships with locals and international students.

 

Why Canada?

When asked why they chose Canada out of the many countries they could have studied in, our student couple, Naomi and Edo, had this to say. Naomi explains, "I wanted to go on an exchange, and going to Canada was Edo’s condition. He was supportive of my idea, so I went along with his choice of Canada." Edo adds, "The decision was influenced by the quality of academic institutions and the opportunity to study in English."

 

"The decision was influenced by the quality of academic institutions and the opportunity to study in English." - Edo Bornstein

 

 

Roee shares, "After my military service, I travelled in Canada and thoroughly enjoyed the country, its people, and the culture. As someone who keeps kosher and observes Shabbat, the large Jewish community there will provide vital support, especially during holidays.” He looks forward to meeting new people, both locals and from other cultures, including Jews from the Diaspora. “It's important for me to contribute to the preservation of Jewish identity both in Israel and abroad, a cause I've been passionate about through my involvement in various organizations like the Young Ambassadors program, Taglit, and StandWithUs. That's why I’m headed to Canada, specifically Toronto.”

 

“It's important for me to contribute to the preservation of Jewish identity both in Israel and abroad, a cause I've been passionate about through my involvement in various organizations like the Young Ambassadors program, Taglit, and StandWithUs. That's why I’m headed to Canada, specifically Toronto.” - Roee Hasid

 

Matan chose Canada for its balance of cultural immersion and familiarity with English. He anticipates forming lasting connections and exploring professional opportunities.

 

 

Abed shared his enthusiasm for the academic and personal growth he anticipates at McGill University in Montreal. "I'm especially excited to engage with the diverse student body at McGill, as I believe this will broaden my understanding of global perspectives. I also look forward to being exposed to different teaching methods and cutting-edge research, which I believe will prepare me for a future career in both academia and the high-tech industry."

 

 

“Without this scholarship, it wouldn't have been possible.”

The students all wish to express their gratitude to the donor, whose support makes their exchange experiences possible.

 

Matan’s message to Seymour Schulich: "I've heard about your support and have friends in Israel whom you've already assisted greatly with grants. It's remarkable how your generosity allows young people like me to focus solely on our studies without the burden of financial worries."

 

 

Naomi adds, “Succeeding here in Israel is very challenging. Edo and I both aspire to continue working in academia, but it's tough because you need to balance intensive studies with work to support yourself. Canada is even more expensive, so without this scholarship, it wouldn't have been possible. It's heartening to know there are people out there who give generously and understand the importance of supporting students like us, allowing us to focus on our studies without worrying about financial constraints."  

 

It's heartening to know there are people out there who give generously and understand the importance of supporting students like us, allowing us to focus on our studies without worrying about financial constraints. - Naomi Turetzky

 

We wish our students good luck in Canada. Stay tuned for updates on their academic and personal growth!

 

In these challenging times, Hebrew University of Jerusalem remains dedicated to our mission of building a better future through education and research. We extend our sincere gratitude to friends and partners worldwide who have shown unwavering solidarity during these difficult times. Together, we will overcome the challenges we face, and our joint pursuit of knowledge remains steadfast.