As an international student from Germany and a recent graduate of Bar-Ilan University, I am excited to share my experiences as a student of political science and communication with all newcomers and potential students. When I first contacted Bar-Ilan, I was still abroad, planning my studies from a distance. However, I immediately felt welcome thanks to the incredible support and availability of the International School staff. During a Zoom meeting, all my questions were promptly answered, ensuring I arrived in Israel well-prepared, despite the challenging times brought on by the pandemic.
The dorms on campus provided a fantastic opportunity to meet new people from diverse backgrounds, creating a vibrant atmosphere for gatherings and Shabbat dinners. These well-equipped, fully furnished dormitories are a great convenience for students coming from abroad. The student community extends beyond Bar-Ilan’s borders, with many students residing in the neighboring city of Givat Shmuel.
Lara takes a selfie with the International School team during the President of Israel’s visit to Bar-Ilan University in 2022. L-R: Yael Toledano, Tiferet Shelly, Michal Herzog, President Isaac Herzog, Chloe Schwartz, Neta Moallem, and Lara Klaehn
Located in the heart of Israel, everything is within reach, just a short bus ride away, whether it be the sea, forests, parks, or shopping malls. Bar-Ilan’s unique campus has developed rapidly in recent years, featuring supermarkets, cafes, hairdressers, and bars, making it feel like a small city unto itself, with academic research and student curiosity at its core.
Starting as a first-year student, I was fortunate enough to work for Bar-Ilan’s International School. Throughout my scholarship program, I met many international guests, from diplomats to academic staff and ambassadors, which was a truly enriching experience. Sharing the classroom with students from all corners of the world exposed me to a variety of opinions, perspectives, cultures, and customs. This diversity has been the highlight of my academic journey. I quickly formed friendships with people from so many different countries, learning about their stories and lifestyles.
Lara Klaehn (left) with Yael Toledano at the Bar-Ilan 100-days-in-captivity event to pay tribute to the hostages and remember those who died on October 7
My time at Bar-Ilan not only broadened my horizons but also deepened my love for Israel and its diverse people. Our growing community of expats has become a safe space for everyone seeking a sense of belonging in the Holy Land. The Bar-Ilan International School organizes celebrations for various communities, such as the Chinese Boat Festival, the Holi Festival, and Christmas, while also educating students about the Jewish and Israeli holidays and traditions.
You might feel homesick at times, but rest assured that Bar-Ilan provides opportunities to share the most precious aspects of your culture with peers. Learning about and experiencing the different cultural events strengthened my appreciation for foreign cultures. We connected through new experiences, music, and food. Each student community was encouraged to contribute suggestions for upcoming celebrations, which were organized with great dedication and enthusiasm by Hadar (Director of Student Affairs and Well-being) and the entire student well-being team of the International School.
L-R: Ofer Dahan, Executive Director of BIU’s International School; Yael Toledano, former International Relations Director, Dr. Barbara Seimetz, Head of the Department of Science and Environment at the German Embassy in Israel, and Lara Klaehn, who was Yael’s assistant during her internship
What I cherish most about this experience is how, with everyone coming from such diverse backgrounds, each person contributes to the community with their own unique story and cultural heritage. This exchange fosters a sense of interconnectedness, leaving you feeling like you have a home in every corner of the world, even if you’ve never visited those places. It ignites a sense of excitement about countries you haven’t yet explored, enriching your personal narrative – and encourages you to visit all these wonderful places.
In my final year, the “Video Journalism” course had a profound impact on my future and career. After learning to use filming equipment and pitching stories to news outlets, each student embarked on an internship at different news agencies. This program was instrumental in helping me settle in Israel and launch my career successfully. I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support from Bar-Ilan’s staff and professors, who consistently motivated us to pursue our goals. Thanks to their guidance, I have found my place in the country I proudly call home.
Wishing our new students the best of success in their studies and future endeavors!
