The Faculty of Engineering's Start-of-Year Event

On Thursday, October 23 2025, the Faculty of Engineering welcomed bachelor's students in a grand opening ceremony. Some 250 students from all programs attended the event. The reception included hearty snacks and a small gift, courtesy of the faculty. The students then proceeded to listen to several speeches.
To photos from the event

"You are our superheroes"

The first speaker was the Faculty of Engineering's Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. Yossi Talyosef, who congratulated the students on their decision to study at Bar-Ilan's Faculty of Engineering. "You are commencing a period of four intensive years, but in the future, when you look back on it, you'll realize that these were some of the best years of your life," Talyosef promised. He added: "On my way over, I heard the song 'Superheroes' by 'HaTikva 6', and I thought about how we're developing your abilities to be superheroes. Someone sitting here could be the one to take us to age 120, or to "100 as 20," as the saying goes. Maybe they'll develop material that enhances protection for soldiers, like what's on Captain America's shield. Or design an innovative chip, bring technology to fruition and completely change what we consider normal life today. You've chosen one of the most interesting professions there is, with the greatest potential to impact humanity. Our goal is to give you the tools that will make you our superheroes."

"The first day of classes is a very exciting one. It comes with many questions and uncertainty, but also the joy of creation and learning. After two difficult and truly challenging years, war, hostages, the confrontation with Iran – we're excited to start a year where difficulties are related to mathematics or physics, not existential fear. I hope you'll start on the right foot and be focused on your studies," said Faculty Dean Prof. Orit Shefi. "It's important that you know: the faculty is not just labs and classes – it's also about creating a social network and being a second home. We care about you, we want you to succeed. I look at you and see the future generation. Look into the future – this is the first stone on your academic path, an entire structure that takes form."

Prof. Shefi emphasized the Faculty of Engineering's array of services at the disposal of its students. "We are responsible for the academic level you'll reach, and for the knowledge you'll take with you going forward. It's important to us that you succeed in learning, that you have everything you need, that it would be simple and convenient for you to consult, and that you will be able to understand and know who to approach for help. I wish you to only experience success, but if you experience difficulty – raise a flag, you are not alone, there are people here to help you, listen to criticism, and strive to improve."

"These will be the best years of your life"

Next to speak was Prof. Benny Zaidel, Chair of the Teaching Committee, the body responsible for overseeing general academic matters pertaining to all students. He asked the students to appoint a body that will represent students in all programs. "Academic studies are different from everything you've known so far. It's a moving train, and it's important that you don't linger at the station, or you might miss it. Attend classes, do your homework, and don't put things off to the last minute. And if difficulties arise – there are office hours, there's a team of teaching assistants, and you can approach them and ask for help," Prof. Zaidel said.

Dr. Sarit Natan of the Department of Mathematics, who is responsible for the mathematics courses offered at the Faculty of Engineering, talked about the mathematical tools students have at their disposal. She talked about Academtica, the faculty's learning center, where tutors circulate and offer help. She concurred with Prof. Zaidel in advising students to attend both theory and practical classes regularly and not wait until the last minute. "Exams could also include questions that require proof, but beyond that – it's fun, it's an experience," she said, adding: "There's a lot of fearmongering here, and it's justified, because you might think you missed a tiny bit and suddenly everything is over, but enjoy it. It's an experience, you'll meet people here who will stay with you for a long, long time, and you'll sit with them until the small hours of the night, and you'll talk and laugh. These will be the best years of your life."

"The first year is crucial. It's quite a shock, and can be daunting even for those who were excellent students in high school. It's important you know this happens to everyone, and nearly everyone succeeds. Dropout rates are very low, and you'll be fine," said Prof. Rachela Popovtzer, Head of Academic Counseling, encouragingly. She explained about academic counseling: the technical aspect, such as courses that don't pan out or similar matters that can be solved via email; and the personal aspect, problems not necessarily related to studies. "It's important for me to say that we try to provide everything that might help you cope. If there are personal problems, personal issues that interfere with your studies and you think we can help with – don't be shy, contact me directly, and we'll do everything in our power to help."

"Reservists, we are here for you"

Dr. Sharon Cohen, the Faculty's Reserve Duty Coordinator, addressed the issue of students who serve on reserve duty. He explained about Bar-Ilan's Academic Armor initiative and the complementary endeavors the faculty employs to resolve broader problems that need to be addressed. "We are happy to say that the Faculty of Engineering is a leader in reservist aid services, and solutions vary depending on the curriculum, from summer semesters to tutoring at the libraries. The key is to reach out in time. Even if you're unsure – raise a flag, and we'll know how to ease the pressure and point you in the right direction," Dr. Cohen added. "Long-term reserve duty has implications not only on continuity, but also on the transition from reserves to routine, and we're here to help, not only academically but emotionally as well. It's important that you understand: you are not alone in these challenges, and we are here for you. We greatly appreciate and value reserve duty soldiers, and it's important to us that you succeed and not have to choose between studies and reserve duty."

Other speakers at the conference included representatives of the university's IT department who provide technical support with the university's technology services. Anat, Coordinator of the Scholarship Office, explained how to apply for scholarships, which ones are available, and what special scholarships were added this year for students who had served for over 30 days of reserve duty over the past year. Yulia Almog, the Faculty of Engineering's Head Librarian, explained about utilizing the library and searching for information. Student Council and Student Committee representatives, Yoav Weiss and Adi Kastenovich, introduced themselves and talked about the council and committees' work. "When they do what they do well, it really enhances the overall experience, learning becomes much more fun," they promised. Last to speak was Sivan, the Faculty of Engineering's undergraduate coordinator, who introduced herself and urged students to approach her and the rest of the administrative staff, as needed.

The Faculty of Engineering launched the 2025-2026 academic year with some 1,600 students, more than 400 of whom are bachelor's students. The Faculty of Engineering wishes them all a fruitful and successful academic year!