Who: Hila Kadosh, senior
Activity: In 2010, senior Hila Kadosh moved from Migdal HaEmek in northern Israel to St. Louis Park. Unlike most of her friends, Kadosh is not preparing college applications. Instead, she will return to Israel in July for mandatory military service in the Israeli Defense Forces.
How have you prepared for your draft?
I looked up the requirements for certain units, like Secret Service and combat. A lot of my friends in Israel have been recruited or accepted into intelligence units based on test scores, and a few have started training to be in the Air Force or serve as a combat soldier. I’m taking IB Hebrew this year to make up for the two years of Hebrew that I’ve missed so that when I get back to Israel, I’ll be ready for the pre-Army standardized testing.
Is selecting an army position similar to the college search process?
It’s not quite the same because you may come into it with an idea of what direction you want to go in, but eventually the officers will pick you based on test scores. I’m worried that I will have a hard time on the test because my Hebrew has gotten worse, but my resume will look good, because I’m now fluent in English.
Would you rather be going to college next year instead of the Israeli army?
To be honest, I think the army teaches you a lot more about life than a university can. At college, no one is taught how to help a friend or how to survive on your own, which is more important than a degree in psychology or history.
Do you think it is still your duty to serve in the Israeli military even though you currently live in the United States?
Yes. I grew up in Israel, and I feel I am really connected to the people and the country, even if I am away (now). It is routine in Israel to finish high school and go to the Army. It is important to serve the people.
Has your time in the United States influenced which army unit you’re interested in?
Yes. I’ve always wanted to be part of the Secret Service, and now I have a better chance of that because I’m fluent in English and can speak a little bit of Spanish and French. Overall, moving is an experience that made me grow up more and made me a stronger person.
Are you scared to serve in the Israeli army?
I am nervous because I don’t know what to expect, but I think Secret Service is what I’ve wanted to do all my life. I know it’s a lot of work, but I’m ready to contribute to my county and serve it.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I’ll finish my mandatory two years in the army, and I want to come back to America and go to college here, hopefully in New York. I would love to study in America because there are so many opportunities here.
