Miami, FL → Living Like a Local in Israel
From Comfort Zone to Growth Zone
When Arik’s friends started returning from their gap years with incredible stories, he knew he wanted more than just travel – he wanted transformation. What drew him specifically to Aardvark Israel? “I wanted a year that would be both fun and meaningful. The idea of working at a real company in another country seemed like the ultimate challenge – scary but exciting.”
Living independently in Tel Aviv has reshaped Arik in unexpected ways. “I never thought I was a sports person, but here, with the beach culture and the energy of the city, I’m at the gym a few times a week following my friend Saul’s program and I’m enjoying every moment
Building the Future at a Startup
Four days a week, Arik interns at Folio.build, a cutting-edge startup developing AI tools that automatically generate personalized sales materials. “Sometimes I get tasks I’ve never done before, and I’ve learned that every problem has a solution. Creative thinking often brings the best results. I’ve started seeing problems as challenges rather than dead ends.”
This hands-on experience in Israel’s famous “Startup Nation” has opened Arik’s eyes to his future. “I’m seriously considering tech for college now. I’m learning so much here – not just technical skills, but how to think differently, how to approach challenges with creativity.”
A Global Shabbat Table
Community Lessons in the Desert
The program’s Kibbutz Ketura seminar, just 50km from Eilat, provided another powerful moment. “Walking into the dining hall for the first time and seeing the incredible community – how everyone lives and works together – it showed me a completely different way of life.” Between sand dune surfing and conversations by the pool, the desert experience deepened friendships and perspectives.
Next Challenge: Marva
Jerusalem and Marva – the program’s military training experience. “I want to test every limit I have. When you prove to yourself you can do something that intense, everything else in life feels more achievable.”
The Aardvark Transformation
“We’re approaching the end of first semester, and so much has changed in me – my way of thinking, how I observe the world. I’m already excited to experience Jerusalem’s uniqueness, meet more people, and simply enjoy and grow personally this year.”
Where else can you learn Tech skills in Tel Aviv, discover hidden strengths at the gym, share Shabbat with the world, and challenge yourself with military training – all while building a global Jewish network?
