Lia Shoshani
Lia is a 24-year-old second year Law student at Reichman University, pursuing an emphasis in International Law and Entrepreneurship. Born in Israel, she spent 14 years growing up in Singapore and an additional two years in Shanghai, China, before returning to Israel at the age of 18. Fluent in English, Hebrew, and intermediate Mandarin Chinese, Lia brings a multicultural perspective and a passion for connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Before beginning her studies, Lia attended a Mechina at Kibbutz Baram and went on to serve as an officer in the IDF, first on Infantry Instructors and later in the Commando Brigade. Her military service strengthened her leadership skills, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure. She continues to serve in the IDF Reserves while working as a legal translator at a law firm.
Yael Oken
Yael Oken, 25 years old, is a third year Communications student specializing in marketing and content for impact at the Raphael Recanati International School at Reichman University. Originally from New York, she moved to Israel at the age of 18 and joined the Garin Tzabar program before beginning her military service as a lone soldier. She served in the IDF Artillery Corps and now lives in Tel Aviv, where she works as an English teacher. Yael is also a member of the Reichman Radio Club and hosts her own weekly music show. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, watching movies, and hosting friends for dinner. She loves meeting new people and creating meaningful connections, and she is excited to welcome new students and help them feel at home in the Reichman community.
Emily Weiss
Emily Weiss, 25 years old, originally from Germany and currently living in Tel Aviv. Emily is a third-year Communications student at Reichman University. After serving in the IDF as a social worker, she discovered how much she enjoys supporting others and building meaningful connections. In her free time, she loves traveling, drawing, and anything that lets her be creative. She can’t wait to meet everyone and help make this year fun, welcoming, and unforgettable.
Shakked Gross
Shaked Gross, 24 years old, grew up in London and currently lives in Tel Aviv. She is a second-year Communications student at Reichman University, specializing in Marketing and minoring in Content for Impact. She served as an Olim Chadashim commander at Michve Alon, a role that taught her so much about working with diverse cultures, adaptability, and helping others navigate new environments. Today, she combines her studies with work as a marketing and business development associate at Gornitzky. In her free time, Shaked loves cooking and baking. She is excited to welcome the incoming students, be a supportive resource throughout the year, and help make their university experience unforgettable!
Jacob Avner
Jacob Avner is 25 years old, starting his second year in a double-major degree in Sustainability and Government, specializing in Security and Anti-Terror. He grew up in Austin, Texas, USA, and moved to Israel through the Naale program at the age of 16. After graduating, he went on to serve as a coordination specialist in the COGAT unit. He is an avid cook, works in security, and volunteers in a food bank, and in a charity for Lone Soldiers. He's excited to meet new students, and pass on his passion for studying and living in Israel.