Message from the Rosh Tochnit
Welcome to Shalem!
My name is Rav Yossela Ote and I am the Rosh Tochnit, the rabbi and director of the Shalem Program.
Shalem is a unique post-high school program perfectly suited for highly intelligent students who are eager to learn and develop in an intellectually stimulating environment, yet do not necessarily want an entire day of continuous textual Torah study. Shalem encourages you to utilize the limudei kodesh knowledge you attain to contribute to the Jewish people, assume an active role in religious society, and become an integral part of Klal Yisrael – “תלמוד המביא לידי מעשה”. Come volunteer and travel in the land of Israel, spend spiritually uplifting Shabbatot together as a group, and absorb the Israeli culture and holy atmosphere!
Although the program is only nine months, a very small percentage of your spiritual growth as a Jewish adult, if you give it your all and come motivated, your time on Shalem can change your life and make you a better version of yourself.
I made aliya as a young boy, so I know what it’s like to feel a part of two worlds. Living in Eretz Yisrael is a significant step towards the development of your Jewish identity and an opportunity to partake in your heritage, grow as individuals, and give back to your communities as models of observant spiritual Jews and leaders of the next generation.
Together with the Shalem staff, I look forward to making this the most memorable, inspirational, and enriching lifetime experience for you!
“והגית בו יומם ולילה”. May you succeed in living daily life in accordance with Torah and derech eretz.
All the best,
Rabbi Yossela Ote.