The Rothberg International School at the Hebrew University is, for the first time, offering a 3-year double major BA in English! This exciting new program includes international students from countries such as Israel, the United States, Canada, Australia, Asia, the UK, and Europe.
It could not have come at a more opportune time. As students in Canada are feeling unsafe on campuses throughout the country, Israel offers a chance to learn in a multicultural environment that promotes peaceful coexistence and respectful dialogue, free from antisemitic protests and chants for the destruction of Israel and the Jewish people.
Thanks to generous support from the National Asper Scholarship Endowment Fund, we were pleased to offer three deserving students the opportunity to attend Rothberg for the inaugural undergraduate program.
Each of them has expressed sincere gratitude for the support received, understanding firsthand the true value and impact of philanthropic contributions.
For Shira Litvack of Toronto, this is a dream come true. She described her experience as a student in Ottawa as insufferable—taunted for being proudly Jewish and an active Zionist, she was doxed and inundated with hateful messages. She decided to apply to Hebrew University, where her father had once volunteered as an admissions advisor for the Canadian Friends, often sharing how the experience had changed his life for the better.
Shira intends to make the most of her academic experience and hopes to volunteer in meaningful ways to contribute to the Israeli people. Her goal is to use her degree to pursue a career in either politics or human rights law. While she may not yet know the precise path, she is determined to fulfill the meaning of “Tikkun Olam” in every sense and is extraordinarily grateful for the financial support that made studying at Hebrew University in Jerusalem possible.
Elishay Dayan of Montreal, raised in a traditional Jewish family, believes this scholarship—which allows him to continue his Business Administration studies at Hebrew University—aligns his academic pursuits with his cultural heritage and personal aspirations. He noted that Hebrew University was a deliberate choice because it provides an opportunity to bridge gaps in his formal education while gaining invaluable insights into Israel’s innovative business landscape. “Israel is renowned as a start-up nation and a leader in innovative businesses.”
By studying at Hebrew University, Elishay aims to immerse himself in Israel’s dynamic environment, acquiring skills and insights that will be instrumental throughout his career. The integration of cutting-edge technology and a robust entrepreneurial culture within the curriculum will enable him to develop a comprehensive understanding of global business strategies and innovative practices.
For Elishay, the events of October 7th significantly impacted his worldview, reinforcing his desire to experience life in Israel firsthand. “Witnessing the challenges faced by the global Jewish community has intensified my resolve to immerse myself in my ancestral homeland—not only to enrich my understanding of my heritage but also to actively contribute to Israel’s dynamic society.”
Benjamin Levy is working towards a Bachelor of Arts in the Liberal Arts program at Hebrew University, a journey he describes as deeply personal. It intertwines his Jewish Canadian heritage, academic aspirations, and his desire to honor the memory of his late father, who never had the opportunity to visit Israel—a dream he held very dear to his heart.
Benjamin will explore the intersections of history, philosophy, literature, and social sciences in a uniquely Israeli context. He was drawn to Hebrew University for several compelling reasons. Its reputation as a leading research institution, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, aligns perfectly with his goal of receiving a well-rounded education.
Studying at Hebrew University offers him the chance to be fully immersed in Israel’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic present. On a personal note, he said, “The tragic loss of my father at a young age, coupled with recent global events affecting the Jewish community, has strengthened my desire to deepen my ties with Israel and make a meaningful impact. In light of the rising antisemitism facing Jewish communities abroad, I see this program as an opportunity to find stability, belonging, and personal growth in a supportive environment.”
Benjamin is committed to contributing to Israeli society and culture during his studies and to giving back to the community that has made it possible for him to pursue this path.
We are currently seeing a substantial rise in the number of students wishing to pursue degrees and summer course opportunities at Hebrew University. If you would like to help deserving Canadian students attend Hebrew University, please click here to donate to the Student Scholarship Fund.
For further information on how to apply for our scholarships, please visit www.cfhu.org/scholarships or email Esther Schlesinger at esthers@cfhu.org.