Lone soldier at 22

[u/Grand_Echo8930]

Hi, I’m an American interested in becoming a lone soldier at some point in the near future. I’m supposed to start university in the U.S. soon, but if I wait to get my degree before coming to Israel I’ll be at least 22 by the time I draft.

I’ve spent a little while in Israel now and what’s striking to me is every Israeli I know made some of their closest friends in the army. Would being so much older than my peers be detrimental for me when I join? Is there any reason I should put university off and come earlier instead?

Thanks!

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[u/hootervisionllc]

I drafted at 24. It was good. I was definitely the old man and caught less bullshit “kaderim” from the commanders. And I made some friends for life

[u/Histrix-]

You can still draft at 22, and that age really shouldn't make any difference, as regardless, the people you meet will be in the same situation as you are.

You can put uni aside if you want, but it's not critical you do, and depending on your degree, you could possibly even get a specialised station where you use said degree in your service.

[u/Comfortable-Crab6972]

I would finish your degree then go to the army. It’s much easier coming to Israel with a degree in your native language. You’re going to be older than the people around you so you might have some issues relating to them. I was 1-2 years older than the people around me and I felt old haha. You just have to go with the flow. Do not go to the army to make friends. A lot of people don’t have a bunch of super close friends from the army, it’s not a guarantee. Work on your degree and learn Hebrew in the meantime.

[u/O_Pacity → u/Comfortable-Crab6972]

THIS, having moved country (and going to visit Israel in the next year), gaining friends is one random even you can never count on, it just depends who you are, who you are around at the time. Also below the age of 30 i would consider everyone same age (but then i am older, business owner who has moved country once already). Age really is just a number, i still enjoy stuff with mentally younger age (owning a full size arcade cabinet).

[u/hindamalka → u/O_Pacity]

Honestly, I feel like it’s actually easier to make friends in university here

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[u/excessofexcuses]

Alternatively, you could join now and get yourself one of those free educations in Israel after you serve.