Immersive, career-focused programs with Israeli companies foster lasting engagement among young professionals, a TAMID Group study released Thursday found.
This discovery came shortly after a Yale University poll indicating sharply more negative views of Israel among younger Americans.
According to TAMID, which is a nonprofit that connects undergraduate students with the Israeli economy, nearly 70% of surveyed alumni remain meaningfully connected to Israel well into their careers, suggesting professional and entrepreneurial pathways can counter campus-era disengagement.
“While a lot of energy and focus is on protests and encampments, the next generation of global leaders isn’t taking their cues from attention-seeking demonstrations,” TAMID CEO Yoni Heilman said.
“Engaging them on Israel’s entrepreneurial strengths isn’t just good business; it is the key to establishing a foundation of engaging Israel directly that lasts throughout their career.”
Most alumni retained meaningful connections with Israel
Drawing on responses from TAMID members, fellows, and alumni between 2020 and 2025, the organization said nearly 70% of alumni report a meaningful, sustained connection to Israel, and 73% say that connection feels very or extremely meaningful.
TAMID reported that 92% of alumni retain a strong understanding of Israel, and 92% of fellows say they would feel confident working in Israel within five years.
The group said engagement persists beyond graduation in tangible ways: 82% of alumni continue to follow Israel in the news, 77% discuss Israel with family and friends, 52% have traveled to Israel post-graduation, 40% seek professional opportunities related to Israel, and 30% actively work with Israeli partners or firms.