From New York to Ramat Aviv
Ella-Rose Feldman grew up in Manhattan. Now, she lives in Ramat Aviv, on the Tel Aviv University campus.
She’s part of the dual-degree program between Tel Aviv University and Columbia University, studying Middle Eastern Studies at TAU and planning to study Biology when she continues at Columbia.
“For a long time, I knew I wanted to be in Israel,” she says. “TAU is one of the best universities here and has an incredible international program. The dual-degree program with Columbia really stood out to me because it sets you up so well academically and allows you to earn two strong degrees.”
A Year That Shaped the Path
Ella-Rose didn’t go straight from high school to college. She spent a year at Midreshet Torah v’Avodah (MTVA), a seminary program in Israel that helped shape what she wanted both personally and religiously.
“I absolutely loved my year at MTVA. It was the perfect place for me because it combined my love for Torah with my connection to Eretz Yisrael.”
That year confirmed something she had already felt for a long time: Israel wasn’t just somewhere to spend a year. It was where she wanted to be.
Learning at TAU
At TAU, she found the kind of academic environment she was looking for.
“The professors are extremely knowledgeable and passionate, and the classes are intellectually challenging and engaging. I’m meeting Jewish and non-Jewish students from all over the world, from so many different backgrounds. That’s been really meaningful.”
Living in Tel Aviv has also pushed her to grow outside the classroom.
“Living independently has taught me how to adapt, be more self-sufficient, and interact with all different types of people,” she explains. “My experience has really helped me develop strong communication skills and learn how to explain and apply my knowledge.”
Finding Home with JLIC
Coming from seminary, she wasn’t sure what religious life in Tel Aviv would feel like.
“I was a bit nervous,” she says. “Tel Aviv is sometimes seen as ‘not religious.’ But the community here is amazing.”
She found that community through the M.D. Katz JLIC program at TAU.
“Rabbi Eitan and Elana Phillips create such a warm environment and make sure religious students always have a place, whether it’s for Shabbat, learning during the week, or just having someone to talk to. Their home truly feels like a home away from home.”
To New York — and Back to Israel
Next, Ella-Rose plans to return to New York to complete her degree at Columbia. But long term, she sees herself back in Israel.
“My long-term dream is to move back to Israel shortly after I graduate. That’s been my goal since my senior year of high school.”
Being in Israel now has only strengthened that goal.
“I love living in the Jewish homeland and being surrounded by Jewish life, it really feels like Israel is one big family. I love TAU, my friends, my peers, my professors, and the JLIC community. Everything together makes this experience incredibly special.”
Her Advice to Future Students
Her advice to students thinking about studying in Israel?
“Do it. It’s one of the best experiences you can have. The learning in Israel is incredible, the universities are excellent, the social life is great, and there’s a strong sense of belonging. Having Jewish holidays off and living in such a meaningful environment makes it both practical and special.”
To learn more about international degrees at TAU and Jewish life on campus through the M.D. Katz JLIC program, visit us here.