When Teaching Calls You Back

Sometimes the most transformative educational journeys begin with a moment of unexpected discovery. For Haneen Abu-Khet, this year’s Tel Aviv University MA in TESOL, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, graduate, that moment came through a simple Facebook scroll that would completely redirect her academic and professional path.

Hear from Haneen  Abu-Khet About Her Journey:

"Five years ago, after completing my BEd at Beit Berl College, I struggled to choose an academic program that aligned with my future goals and interests. I remember reaching out to former instructors and my college peers to seek advice. 

Eventually, after a prolonged period of contemplation and hesitation I decided to register for an MA in English literature and Creative Writing at Bar Ilan University, since I enjoyed both fields equally and was very enthusiastic about composing my writing in a creative, innovative way.  

I finished my MA in 2022 and completed my thesis with a plan to pursue a PhD soon. However, not too long after the graduation ceremony, I felt lack of motivation to proceed with a PhD. That sense of demotivation stemmed from the realization that I was drifting away from the field I was most passionate about and dedicated to, the thing that fills my sense of purpose which is teaching English. I soon came to the realization that this academic path had reached its conclusion and that my aspirations for further professional and intellectual growth would need to be pursued through a different avenue. 

One day, during one of my daily scrolls on Facebook, I came across a Facebook account on my friends' suggestion list, and it was of one of my old friends.  I remember how my attention was fixated on where she did her MA, and it says “TESOL program at Tel Aviv University.” 

Instantly, I felt this intense rush of adrenaline, and I was ecstatic. I recall the numerous voices echoing in my head. It was hard to keep up: “How come I haven't come across this program before?”, “Is it new?”  How come I never heard of it? “I NEED TO DO THIS”. 

As a fresh MA graduate from Bar Ilan University in 2022, deciding to sign up for another MA at a different university one year later was challenging.  

However, I was certain that this was the right next move for me.   

We began the program in August 2023, during the summer semester, with four intensive courses to complete by September. Despite the time constraints and the challenges of balancing work, particularly my responsibilities as an elementary school teacher, the experience was deeply fulfilling.  

The sense of professional growth and being part of a like-minded community with a shared vision was truly inspiring. 

Throughout the program, I was fortunate to deeply explore the multifaceted field of English language teaching through theoretical, pedagogical, and practical lenses. The program developed different aspects of my teacher identity, equipping me with essential tools to navigate educational institutions with knowledge, skills, and confidence.  

Courses like Teacher Identity helped me immensely to embrace and understand the challenges educators face on both personal and universal levels.  

In addition, courses like Curriculum Design and the Practicum enhanced my understanding of the Israeli education system and provided me with valuable insights on how to address Israeli learners’ needs, navigate diversity, and use it as an asset to enrich the learning experience—never allowing it to become a barrier to instruction. 

Diversity was also a hallmark of our TESOL classroom.  

It was truly wonderful to share this experience with individuals from around the world; this added significant value to my learning and allowed me to witness the beauty of diversity up close. Each person contributed a unique perspective shaped by their own cultural background, opening our minds and hearts to the richness of “the other.” This experience reaffirmed the importance of embracing diversity in our own classrooms."

Applications for MA TESOL for2025/26 academic year are still open and you have a chance to apply!

Various scholarships are available for international students. New olim are eligible for tuition scholarships from the Israeli Student Authority.

Visit the program website and contact the program manager at tesol@tauex.tau.ac.il for more details.