At the beginning of August, Bar-Ilan University’s International School buzzed with energy and enthusiasm, hosting a special preparation event for 30 eager students set to embark on life-changing exchange programs across Europe for the 2024-2025 academic year. This gathering marked the beginning of a remarkable journey in which students would immerse themselves in diverse cultures and academic environments.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome, as each student took a moment to introduce themselves and share their chosen exchange destinations. The room was alive with excitement, filled with stories and dreams of new experiences waiting just around the corner. All students will be going abroad for one semester, except for two who will be embarking on a full-year adventure.
Inspiring words flowed from distinguished speakers, including Prof. Rivka Tuval-Mashiach, Academic Head, and Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of the International School. Prof. Tuval-Mashiach highlighted the transformative power of international experiences, encouraging students to embrace the unfamiliar and grow both academically and personally. Dahan reinforced the strength of Bar-Ilan’s global partnerships, ensuring students that they would be met with open arms and robust support at their host universities.
Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of the International School
Oz Nackar, the Director of Student Exchange, took center stage to provide a thorough overview of vital information and last-minute preparations. His engaging presentation covered essential travel logistics, academic expectations, and cultural adjustments, empowering students with the knowledge they needed to navigate their upcoming adventures confidently.
After a brief refreshment break, students participated in an interactive workshop led by the “Stand with Us” organization. This session equipped them with practical tools to tackle potential challenges they might encounter while abroad, ensuring they feel prepared for any situation.
Oz Nackar, Director of Student Exchange
The event proved to be a resounding success, leaving students not only well-prepared but also brimming with enthusiasm for the adventures that lie ahead. Bar-Ilan University is proud to support these intrepid explorers as they step into this exciting new chapter. With confidence and determination, they are ready to represent the university with distinction, returning home enriched by invaluable experiences and insights that will last a lifetime.
The students will be heading to 19 prestigious universities across Europe and beyond, including CHE Ede, Netherlands; Jyvaskyla, Finland; Trinity College, Ireland; FAU Erlangen, Germany; University of Graz, Austria; Lauder University, Austria; Humboldt University, Germany; University of Alcala, Spain; Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Hungary; Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic; University of William and Mary, Virginia, USA; University of Zurich, Switzerland; Cardozo School of Law (Yeshiva University), USA; University of Bremen, Germany; Temple University, Pennsylvania, USA; University of Lisbon, Portugal; and Tilburg University, Netherlands.