My Amazing Zionistic Schools

In honor of Israel’s 70th year, we asked our alumni in Israel to share their aliyah story. Read Laura Chuven (’15) story below. Click here to return to the whole page of olim who submitted responses.

What year did you make aliyah and how old were you?

2016 and 19

Did your experience in high school influence your decision to make aliyah and if so, how?

What was your path to aliyah like?

It had its up and downs. It definitely was not easy, but it is so worth it. I’m living the dream!

Did you serve in the IDF? 

I serve in the Israeli Navy now. It has its challenges but the pride of wearing the uniform is incredible. I feel that I am really contributing to the country’s welfare and nothing is more important to me.

What has been the most rewarding about living in Israel?

What is the most challenging part of making aliyah?

Everyone told me it would be hard, but it was hard in ways I never expected. I never quite appreciated my parents until I moved away. I miss my family more than anything else. It is not the easy path, but it is a path worth taking. Every good thing has its challenges. If it was easy, everyone would do it.

What is your advice for our students today?

Follow your dreams and what YOU think is right. Don’t let people discourge you because while they might mean well and only have your best interest at heart only you know what is really the right path for you. Follow your gut, always.