Office of Study Abroad

Profile: Evan Rabin '12

Majors: Business and International Global Studies

Study Abroad Program: Tel Aviv University Overseas Program, 2011

Current Job: Owner of Premier Chess

Why did you originally choose to study abroad in Israel? I originally decided study abroad in Tel Aviv as I saw Israel on a bird’s eye level for 10 days on my birthright trip in 2008 and wanted to experience what it is like to live there. I knew Tel Aviv would have more urban life and internship opportunities than other cities in Israel.

What have you been up to since graduation? After working for four years in enterprise software sales, I started Pillar Sales, a sales outsourcing company and have now been running Premier Chess full time for four years.

What lessons or skills did you learn from studying abroad that you still think about today or still impact you today on your current path? Abroad, I learned how to be independent and think for myself. I also learned a lot more about Israel and my Jewish roots, which has influenced me to be involved with lots of Jewish and Israel organizations today like Manhattan Jewish Experience, JNF and Meor.

One memory from abroad that still feels like it happened yesterday: When I got to see many of my cousins in Jerusalem for the first time on Jerusalem Day and felt like I’ve known them my whole life.

Your message to students thinking about studying abroad: Definitely an experience to not miss out on! It’s a life changing experience, where you can explore, make lots of new friends and have lifelong memories.