“I have always aimed high, but thanks to Derech Eretz I was able to succeed in fulfilling my goals and serve in Unit 217. The Derech Eretz pre-military program prepared me for the IDF on so many levels, and I came ready to face the challenges that came my way.”

“I was born and raised in Jerusalem. My mother is a retired kindergarten teacher and my dad is a computer tech guy. In my senior year of high school, Yonatan Kischinovsky came to speak at my school and told us about the pre-military program. A few friends and I were excited to hear about it. It seemed that we’d have an amazing experience – the hikes, trying out and learning new things, the volunteer work – plus, we loved that it wouldn’t require deferring our army service. We probably would not have joined otherwise.

The pre-military program was everything I thought it would be, and so much more. It was a once-in-a-lifetime-experience that changed the way I look at life, and increased my motivation to join the IDF. It boosted my confidence and trust in my own abilities to succeed. Living away from home for those six months taught me to get along with my roommates, complete tasks, and be independent.

I loved volunteering – it was satisfying to know that I can be of help to others. I also loved meeting the different populations of our country. Helped me be more accepting of others and of our differences. Survival week was also one of my most memorable experiences – a week long hike where we practice the skills we learned. That week helped me decide that I wanted to become an officer in the IDF.

When I joined the IDF, I was recruited to Unit 217 [an elite special operations force – part of the IDF’s commando brigade]. I participated in IDF operations ‘Brother’s Keeper’ and ‘Operation Protective Edge.’ I became an Officer in my unit.

Derech Eretz undoubtedly played a role in steering me in the right direction in where – and how – to reach my goal. I have always aimed high, but thanks to Derech Eretz I was able to succeed in fulfilling my goals and serve in Unit 217. The Derech Eretz pre-military program prepared me for the IDF on so many levels, and I came ready to face the challenges that came my way.

I highly recommend the mechina to anyone going into the army – anyone who is serious about their future and wants to succeed.”

Shahar Groskop, 23, Jerusalem

Derech Eretz, Yerucham Campus

2012-13