The Technion International recently hosted its first-ever prospective student Shabbaton, a significant event designed to showcase campus life and the vibrant Jewish community to potential applicants. The Shabbaton, which took place January 17-18, 2025, was a collaborative effort led by JLIC Mizrachi directors Rabbi Evan and Tova Levine, in coordination with the Technion. While the Shabbaton was coordinated by Rabbi Evan and Tova Levine, much of the planning, organization, and execution were led by dedicated student leaders: Hodi Sackstein, Limor Fischer, and Josh Blecher. Their commitment and hard work were instrumental to the success of the weekend.
Approximately 30 prospective students from various yeshiva and seminaries including from Keren b’Yavne, Midreshet Lindenbam, Midreshet HaRova, Sha’alvim for Women, Mivaseret Tzion, MMY, YTVA, Orayta, along with dedicated Benot Sherut, arrived on campus prior to Shabbat. The program began with a campus tour, giving participants an opportunity to explore the facilities and learn about the academic offerings. The students then joined the existing JLIC Technion community, with an additional 40 current students participating in Friday night dinner and Shabbat lunch. This interaction was crucial for enabling prospective students to learn about the Jewish and academic aspects of student life directly from their peers. The event aimed to foster connections and provide a clear picture of what it means to be a student at the Technion International.
The weekend featured informative breakout sessions focusing on different academic faculties, allowing prospective students to explore their interests in depth. There was also ample opportunity for socializing and informal interaction, further strengthening the sense of community. The overall atmosphere was positive, with participants expressing a high level of engagement.
Feedback from the participants was particularly insightful. A recurring theme was the importance of Jewish life on campus as a deciding factor in choosing a university. Many prospective students who had previously hesitated about applying to the Technion due to perceived lack of a Jewish community, expressed a renewed interest after experiencing the Shabbaton firsthand. One student remarked that they now saw the potential for a supportive religious community and gained crucial insights into campus life, which significantly influenced their application decision. The student added that they were particularly impressed by the close-knit nature of the JLIC Mizrachi community.
This feedback underscores the importance of the Jewish community on campus, not only for current students, but also in shaping the perceptions of prospective students. As the JLIC Mizrachi directors shared the thriving Jewish community at the Technion has a substantial impact on both student life and the broader institutional appeal. The success of the Shabbaton highlighted the university’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment, where students can envision themselves thriving both academically and within their Jewish community.
“We are so proud of the community we have built, and this Shabbaton was a fantastic opportunity to showcase how vibrant Jewish life is at the Technion. We look forward to continuing to nurture this environment for current and future students.” – Rabbi Evan and Tova Levine
“Working with Mizrachi to establish JLIC at Technion was predicated on a shared vision for fostering Jewish life on campus. This Shabbaton shows the tremendous impact that creating a comfortable and supportive community can have on Orthodox students.” – Rabbi Joshua Ross, Executive Director of JLIC
The inaugural Prospective Student Shabbaton was a notable success, demonstrating the strength of the Jewish community at the Technion and its appeal to future international students.
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