In honor of Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day, this month we are shining a spotlight on Israelis who have chosen to call Buffalo home. Today, we shine the spotlight on Amit Tzadok.

Amit Tzadok, a sophomore at the University at Buffalo, was born in Haifa and spent her childhood in the Galilee until her family moved to New York when she was in 8th grade. Amit is proud of her heritage and the Israeli culture. “What I love most about Israeli culture is the food and the importance of family,” she explains. She also appreciates the diversity of the Israeli society and the fact that people from different backgrounds and religions live together.

In addition to her appreciation for Israeli culture, Amit has also grown to love American culture. “What I love the most about American culture is the emphasis on individualism and the opportunities that are available here,” she says. She enjoys the sense of freedom and independence that she experiences in the US, which contrasts with the more collectivist mindset of Israeli society.

When asked why she chose to come to the US for college, Amit explains: “I wanted to challenge myself and experience something new. I also wanted to improve my English and learn about American culture.” Adjusting to life in the US was not without its challenges. She experienced culture shock and struggled with the language barrier at first. However, she was able to overcome these challenges and has come to appreciate her experience in the US.

As for living in Buffalo, Amit says that she loves the city. “Buffalo has a great sense of community, and people are really friendly here,” she shares. Amit appreciates Buffalo’s thriving culture, including events like the Buffalo Wing Festival, as well as the opportunities that the city has to offer, such as internships and networking events.  Amit has also enjoyed the academic rigor, the diversity of the student body, and the supportive faculty at UB. “The professors are really invested in their students, and they are always willing to help,” she says.

When asked what she wishes people knew about Israel, Amit responds: “Despite what the news portrays, a lot of Israeli Arabs and Jewish Israelis get along.” She hopes that people will see beyond the conflicts and understand that there are many positive aspects to Israeli society. “My hope is that people will be able to be open-minded and make an effort to understand their opposing side.” She believes that if people can learn to listen to each other and see things from different perspectives, there is hope for a more peaceful world.

The community is invited to celebrate Israel’s 75th anniversary on Sunday, April 30 at Noon at the Gretchen Gross Omanut Building on the Irving M. Shuman Campgrounds.  Enjoy traditional Israeli food, bounce houses, fun activities, and an upbeat performance of classic and modern Israeli music from TLV band, the premier Israeli music cover band in North America.

Thank you to Elisha Amiri, JCC Israel Program Coordinator for submitting today’s spotlight.