Miriam — Community center director

How it started

Miriam applied to ISEF in 12th grade — matriculation average 88. She was accepted to the excellence track + a top-up scholarship for a bachelor's in social work.

Bachelor's + first training

3 years at university (fully funded through ISEF), then 2 years interning at the Rehovot Welfare Office (at-risk families casework). Internship pay was low, but the experience was excellent.

Second role: community center

After licensing — a "community worker" role at the city's community center (₪13K/month). 4 years there — built in-community programs, mainly for single mothers. Impact was demonstrable.

Where she is today

Director of that same city community center for 2 years. Salary ₪22K gross, team of 8. Also half-time on the Rehovot city council's committee for community-professional grants.

Recommendation

> "Social work is a long journey. The financial rewards come after 7-10 years. But the daily satisfaction — you see change in people."

Programs used

• ISEF — organization profile
• Hesegim scholarships — right