From Startups to Stagecraft: TAU’s Student Clubs Have It All
Meet the passionate international students shaping TAU’s club scene
With the second semester starting March 17, it’s the perfect time to explore Tel Aviv University’s vibrant student life. Here, everyone can find their niche—whether in business, creativity, or many other fields. At the heart of it all are student clubs, driving connections, new experiences, and community. Discover student-led initiatives at TAU and meet the people behind these organizations as they answer unexpected questions and share their experiences.
Business and Career Development
TAMID Group: Drafting the Business Plans and Running the Numbers
The club connects future business leaders to Israel through hands-on experience in finance and consulting. At TAU, members can join the Investment Fund Branch, where they gain practical financial expertise, or the Consulting Branch, where they collaborate with Israeli startups to solve real-world problems. The club fosters professional growth and builds a global network of innovators.
Lior Shwartz, President of TAMID at TAU: “If I could time-travel, I’d skip forward 10 years to see a thriving pre-professional ecosystem at TAU International, with TAMID alumni leading top firms worldwide.”
Connect TA(YOU): Even Barbie Needs a LinkedIn
Connect TA(YOU) presents diverse career opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students through events, guest lectures, and bi-weekly email updates. By creating meaningful connections across various fields, the club empowers students to navigate their career paths with confidence and clarity.
Ellah Nahum: “Barbie would be the ultimate honorary member of our club—she’s mastered every career under the sun and makes it look effortless!”
TAUFF (TAU Financial Futures): Making Markets Scary Instead of Fun
TAUFF empowers students to explore the finance industry with confidence through workshops, networking events, and expert panels. The club transforms curiosity into real-world expertise, creating a space for collaboration and peer learning.
Lior Shwartz: “If we could have unlimited funding for one outrageous event, we’d host a nationwide stock pitch competition judged by leading Israeli financiers, bringing together the brightest minds in the country.”
Arts, Creativity, and Expression
The Writing Collective: Where Your Pen Is Mightier Than a Pharaoh's Scroll
The Writing Collective offers a safe and intimate space for writers to explore creative themes, analyze literature, and foster self-expression. The club encourages personal and academic growth through its workshops and discussions.
Niara Popat, the founder: “If we could meet in one location forever, it would be at the Library of Alexandria—writing among ancient texts would be transformative.”
Learning some salsa moves with Natasha Bilinsky
Dance Club: Every Misstep Is a Step in the Right Direction
The Dance Club invites everyone, from beginners to seasoned performers, to express themselves through movement. Offering styles from Latin ballroom to Indian dance, the club provides a space to connect through rhythm and build community.
Natasha Bilinsky: “One playlist or song we would use as theme music would be Ihiye Beseder by Café Shahor Hazak—it captures the energy and positivity of our group.”
Stagecraft Theater Club: Turning Faint Echoes into Standing Ovations
The Stagecraft Theater Club is a club for people who love theatre, performing or technical, regardless of experience level. Stagecraft meets twice a week for workshops and rehearsals. The team hopes to have a full-scale production announced soon to be performed at the end of the year. In addition, there are weekly acting, singing, and theatre history workshops.
Gavin Rubin: “The strangest skill I’ve gained since leading this club would be learning to roar like a lion—quietly enough not to disturb meetings next door.”
The Movie Club
The club brings together film enthusiasts to explore and discuss cinema across genres, cultures, and themes. Through screenings and workshops, members gain a deeper appreciation for storytelling and visual art.
“Everyone should watch films from unfamiliar cultures with an open mind, avoiding judgment, and research any stereotypes or exaggerations to better understand the truth behind the story.”
Social Impact and Identity
Student Council (STUCO)
The Student Council is the heartbeat of student-led initiatives on campus. Through committees focusing on academics, extracurriculars, and student life, STUCO ensures a vibrant experience for all.
Ari Greenblatt, President of STUCO: “One of our main channels of communication is our Instagram account, where many of the board members’ moms follow us. We have been posting “Take Over Tuesday” content, along with funny or informative stories, and the moms have truly been our biggest supporters. I’m happy we can keep the moms entertained, if no one else.”
TAU Summit Society: The Power of Camaraderie
The club provides a supportive community for students navigating the challenges of studying abroad, including academic struggles, cultural adjustment, and language barriers. By providing mentorship, leadership opportunities, and peer support, the society empowers students to overcome obstacles and build resilience. More than just a club, it’s a platform for growth and connection, helping students thrive and make meaningful contributions in a new environment.
Shanee Malka, the club founder: “I was inspired to found the club because my struggles in Calculus showed me the need for a supportive community.”
Women’s Club: Turning Willpower into WOW Moments
The Women’s Club celebrates cultural diversity through art, music, and traditions. It’s a space for women to share their stories and build connections across cultures.
Bhavana Velpula, founder of Women’s Club: “If we had our own reality show it would be called “WOW (Women with Will) starring Michelle Obama.”
Celebrating Hanukkah and Christmas at the Lowy International School
The International Cultural Club: Connecting Culture and Carbs
The International Culture Club at Tel Aviv University offers a vibrant space for international students and culture enthusiasts to share their backgrounds and experiences. Through monthly themed meetings on topics like traditions, sustainability, and health, the club fosters dynamic discussions and intercultural exchange.
“If our club were a dessert it would be rice pudding—it’s universal and comforting!”
Public Speaking and Intellectual Engagement
Mock Trial: Where Justice Is Served with a Side of Party Emoji Vibes
Mock Trial gives aspiring lawyers a chance to simulate courtroom proceedings and develop practical legal skills. With roles ranging from attorneys to judges, members engage in intellectual challenges while honing their craft.
“If we were to describe our club’s vibe in three emojis, these would be ”
TAUMUN Society: The Unifying Power of Diplomacy
TAUMUN Society serves to develop diplomacy and leadership through weekly simulations, events, and conferences. The club connects Israeli and international students in meaningful collaboration.
Maya Dunayer: “Our biggest achievement is bridging gaps between different student communities while fostering collaboration.”
TAUMUN at the International Week 2024
Debate Club: Stay Cool-Headed with Hot Topics
The Debate Club serves as a platform for respectful and structured discussions on provocative topics. Members engage in meaningful debates inspired by thought-provoking questions.
Valentina Alberti: “For an initiation ritual for new members we could require a ‘no-troll oath’ to promise respectful dialogue.”
Foreign Lawyers: Great Minds Run on Caffeine
The club provides a space for aspiring and practicing lawyers to network, learn, and grow. The club focuses on bridging cultural and professional gaps within Israel’s legal landscape.
Ian Signori: ‘Our go-to power-up drink when planning our activities is an ice-cold Diet Coke—it’s the only right answer!”
Tel Aviv University offers an incredible spectrum of student-led clubs, each with its own unique flair and purpose. These communities don’t just enrich your time in Israel—they provide platforms for growth, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Interested in joining or starting a club?
Reach out to our Community Leaders for more information.
Text by Ellah Nahum, first-year student in BA in Liberal Arts, member of the Student Council, and founder of Connect TA(YOU)
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