By: Batya Reyz

As the beggining of the school year approaches, we are all very busy getting used to our new schedules and setting personal goals for the upcoming semester. But as hectic as things can get, we need to take advantage of the new semester and all it has to offer. The start of a new semester is an amazing opportunity to reach out to incoming freshman or uninvolved students and get them excited about joining the Israel activism movement!

Freshmen who are trying to make their way into college life often look towards social opportunities on campus to make friends. Some ideas that are fun to try during the first few weeks of September or all year ‘round are:

1) Israeli movie night

What better way to celebrate Israeli culture than with famous Israeli humor? Make sure the movie has English subtitles so that everyone can follow along. Get plenty of popcorn and snacks- laughing and eating together is a great way to bond! End the night by “friending each other on facebook”- and announce the launch of the “friend request pending” campaign!

2) Fundraiser

Throwing a fundraiser is a great way to introduce new friends to Israeli charities and humanitarian organizations. Causes like “Save a Child’s Heart” and “Camp Koby” are also great opportunities to build coalitions with various children’s rights groups on campus!

3) Israel 360!

The best way to inspire people to get involved is by showing them the beauty of Israel. Israel 360 provides a virtual tour of the land, highlighting interesting facts about Israeli history and culture along the way! Your Hasbara Fellowships Campus Coordinator can bring Israel 360 to your campus and offer funding for food, prizes, advertising and more. Filled with fun, education, and friends, this unique night will be one to remember! http://www.hasbarafellowships.org/resources/campaigns/israel-360

Remember to have a sign up sheet at all events, and add new members to the facebook group for your pro-Israel club.

Here are some samples of pro-Israel facebook groups you can check out and get ideas from:

Buckeyes for Israel- Ohio State

http://www.facebook.com/groups/78624350325/

Sun devils for Israel- Arizona State

http://www.facebook.com/groups/45060468051/?ref=ts

Smile, be friendly and make lots of new friends!