Spotlight on Ido Karavani (FYHS '13)

Graduating Year: 2013

Current Location: Mercaz Shapira in the South of Israel, after spending the past few years on shlichut in Miami

Profession:  I work as an Instructional Coordinator and also teach at a school in Israel.

Tell us a little bit about your family: I’m married, and my wife and I are blessed with two children.

What is your favorite memory/(memories) from FYHS/HTC/Kayitz:

One of my favorite parts of my time at Yeshiva was the friendships I built. Living in the dorm gave me a great sense of independence and created countless memories with friends that I still look back on with a smile.

Just as meaningful were the relationships I developed with my Rebbeim. They played a major role in helping me grow as a Ben Torah. Even during my service in the Israeli army, I stayed in touch with Rabbi Haskell and Rabbi Zimmerman. They were always there to encourage me and offer guidance, and to this day I know I can turn to them for advice.

Please share a lesson/takeaway from your time at FYHS/HTC/Kayitz:

One of the greatest lessons I learned is to  never underestimate the influence of good friends. As Chazal teach us, “…u’kneh lecha chaver”. Looking back, I realize that so much of who I am today is a result of the people I surrounded myself with in Yeshiva. The environment and the friendships I built had a lasting impact on my growth.

Advice for current students:

 Take full advantage of everything the Yeshiva has to offer. It’s a place where you have the opportunity to grow both personally and spiritually.

When I was there, me and a friend wanted to start a Thursday night Mishmar. We raised money, organized shiurim, and worked to make it happen. The Yeshiva encouraged us every step of the way. The same was true with the school newspaper—they gave students the support and confidence to turn ideas into reality.

Don’t be afraid to take initiative. If you have an idea that can benefit the Yeshiva or the student body, pursue it. You’ll be surprised by how much you can accomplish.