For Rachel Shapin, a third-year student at Ben-Gurion University’s Medical School for International Health, the journey to becoming a doctor in Israel wasn’t something she had initially planned. But looking back, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
From Michigan to Beer Sheva
Rachel grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and completed her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University in biosystems engineering. When researching medical schools, Rachel’s father discovered Ben-Gurion University’s International Medical Program online, and its focus on global medicine immediately caught her attention. With a background in learning different languages and a passion for helping the underprivileged, Rachel found Ben-Gurion to be the perfect fit.
Embracing Life in Israel
At first, staying in Israel long-term wasn’t in Rachel’s plans. But over time, the experience changed her. Being surrounded by Jewish culture and historical sites deepened her connection to her roots. She made aliyah* about a year ago, and she now finds it meaningful to be in a country where Jewish traditions are part of everyday life. Rachel only knew some basic Hebrew from Sunday school before moving to Israel, but she put in the effort to improve. She took online lessons before arriving and even practiced with pen pals! Now she makes sure to interact with Israelis as much as possible.
“Volunteering in the ER at the start of the Swords of Iron war helped me learn fast—when you need to comfort patients or talk to their families and navigate a fast-paced environment, you pick up the language quickly! Now, I can read patient files and communicate much better than I expected.”
Beer Sheva itself has been a wonderful home for Rachel. Despite some stereotypes about the city being quiet, she’s found a vibrant student life, from festivals and other events in the city and on campus to hikes and even camel visits in the nearby desert. And on a day-off when she doesn’t have too much studying she thoroughly enjoys a day trip to Jerusalem or Masada!
The Medical Experience at BGU
One of the most enriching aspects of studying at BGU has been the exposure to diverse communities. Working at Soroka Medical Center, Rachel has had the opportunity to interact with Jews, Arabs, Bedouins, and Druze, learning the unique medical and cultural challenges each community faces. She’s seen firsthand the impact of genetic diseases among Bedouin populations and has learned how medical practice differs in various cultures. Additionally, BGU’s program includes a two-month rotation in countries like Nepal, India, and Peru, giving students first hand experience in international medicine. Rachel is looking forward to this opportunity to further her understanding of healthcare in different parts of the world.
“I just read that at over half of the medical school graduationsin the U.S. there were Pro-Palestinian protests. Here my experience could not be more different. The team I work with at Saroka includes Jews, Arabs, and Christians working together, which is harder to find in the U.S.”
A Supportive Jewish Community
One of the most enriching aspects of studying at BGU has been the exposure to diverse communities. Working at Soroka Medical Center, Rachel has had the opportunity to interact with Jews, Arabs, Bedouins, and Druze, learning the unique medical and cultural challenges each community faces. She’s seen firsthand the impact of genetic diseases among Bedouin populations and has learned how medical practice differs in various cultures. Additionally, BGU’s program includes a two-month rotation in countries like Nepal, India, and Peru, giving students first hand experience in international medicine. Rachel is looking forward to this opportunity to further her understanding of healthcare in different parts of the world.
“I just read that at over half of the medical school graduationsin the U.S. there were Pro-Palestinian protests. Here my experience could not be more different. The team I work with at Saroka includes Jews, Arabs, and Christians working together, which is harder to find in the U.S.”
Southeast Torah Bowl: A Weekend of Torah Learning and Fun Competition
Rachel was always proud to be Jewish but it wasn’t a central part of her life. Now, her time in Israel has strengthened her Jewish identity and religious practice. Through Shabbat meals, learning opportunities, and friends who introduced her to Jewish traditions, she gradually adopted a more observant lifestyle. JLIC at Ben-Gurion University, led by Rav Idan and Prielle Rakovsky, has played a huge role in helping her feel even more at home. The supportive community has made a lasting impact, giving her a place to grow religiously and socially.
“I never imagined I’d end up studying—and staying—in Israel and living as a religious Jew, but I’ve loved every minute of it and have never once looked back!”
*Note that currently in Israel, Students must have completed the Aliyah process in order to apply for any medical school program in Israel. To learn more about our JLIC communities in ten locations across Israel, visit us here.