A Heart in Two Places: Growing Up with Israel in Mind
Esther Franklin may have been born and raised in Los Angeles, but her heart was always set on Israel. Raised in a proudly pro-Israel home, she internalized from a young age that her future belonged in the Jewish homeland. Already as a middle schooler, she knew she wanted to go to college in Israel. During her high school years at Valley Torah, while others were still deciding on their next steps, Esther’s direction was set.
When COVID Delayed the Dream, Her Passion Only Grew
Like many others, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted her plans. Esther longed to visit Israel but couldn’t, which only made
her desire stronger.
“During COVID, I felt it even more—I needed to be in Israel. But I couldn’t go, so the question lingered: Would it
really be a good fit for me long-term?”
That question was finally answered after 11th grade, when she visited for the first time in a few years. The experience was
everything she’d hoped for—and more.
“That trip solidified everything. I knew I was supposed to be here.”
Taking the Leap: Aliyah and College Plans
During her year in seminary, Esther began the aliyah process with Nefesh B’Nefesh. When the war broke out, many of her peers who had been uncertain about staying in Israel made the decision to remain.
“For a lot of people, the war was a big push. Especially when we saw what was happening on college campuses in the U.S., it made me even more sure. I didn’t apply to any universities in the States—I knew early on that I belonged here.”
This year, her younger brother also made aliyah, and with cousins and grandparents in Israel, Esther’s roots are now firmly planted in her new home.
Building Toward a Career in Electro-Optics
Esther is now enrolled at the Jerusalem College of Technology – Tal Campus, in a transitional language-based engineering track. Her first year includes foundational courses in chemistry and computer science, along with ulpan to build general Hebrew skills.
“The ulpan has definitely helped—I’ve seen real improvement in my Hebrew. And since many technical terms in future classes will be in English, that should make things more manageable.”
Next year, she’ll officially begin her studies in Electro-Optics Engineering—a unique program that blends electrical engineering with optics, including the use of sensors, lasers, and light. The field has important applications in Israeli security and defense technology, as well as in medical devices. Though JCT has consistently offered this degree to men, it is now reopening the program for women, and Esther will be among the first to participate.
A Religious Academic Environment That Feels Like Home
One of the main reasons Esther chose JCT-Tal was the combination of strong academics and a religious atmosphere.
“I grew up in a religious household and attended Jewish schools, so I wanted a college experience that continued
that environment while also challenging me academically.”
The midrasha component—Torah classes integrated into the regular weekly schedule—adds spiritual depth to her studies.
“I really enjoy Rabbi Rosner’s class. It’s special to still have Torah learning during college—it’s required to graduate, but also something I genuinely enjoy.”
Outside the classroom, the presence of JLIC adds another layer of warmth and support.
“It’s nice to have a homey place to go, where there’s programming that isn’t part of your academic schedule.”
Dorm life is another highlight. Living with students from around the world, Esther is part of an apartment where Hebrew, French, and English mix daily.
“It’s a fun challenge. It really pushes me to work on my Hebrew, and it’s cool to be part of such a diverse community.”
Looking Ahead
Esther’s goal is to complete her degree and contribute meaningfully to Israeli society.
“I want a career that’s impactful—where I’m doing something that is truly helpful and significant.”
Her advice to others considering aliyah or college in Israel?
“If you feel a strong connection to the land—follow it. It can be scary, but if you have even a small support system, that makes all the difference.”
And for Esther, the rewards are everywhere.
“I feel so lucky to live here. I can go to the Kotel whenever I want. I’m surrounded by Judaism. Even little things—like seeing kids running around before Shavuot to collect flowers, or getting ready for Lag BaOmer—remind me how special it is to be here.”
Visit our blogs for more student success stories and learn more about the various programs available in English at Israeli universities.