Comparative Security

CEHC staff delegation meets with students in Israel. Left to right: Emily Barrett, CEHC director of experiential learning and external partnerships, Nancy Kreis '19, Kimberly Morales '20, Aidan Sobina '20, Robert Griffin, CEHC dean, Roger Parrino, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services commissioner

ALBANY, N.Y. (March 27, 2018) – Though Nancy Kreis is not limiting herself to one career path, she envisions joining law enforcement after graduating from UAlbany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity next year.

There’s no better way to gain experience than learning from one of the world’s security powers.

Kreis, who is concentrating in homeland security, is one of three students participating in the inaugural “CEHC in Israel” program this semester. The students are spending six months immersing themselves in all Israel has to offer – including its unique approach to national security.

The program is a partnership between CEHC and Ben Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), a public research institution in Beersheba, Israel. BGU is at the center of the country’s cybersecurity research and development. Its Cybersecurity Research Center is currently partnered with The Israeli Computer Services Directorate, which leads Israel’s cyber defense efforts.

Students will return in July, still on track for graduation.

“Thus far, my experience has been outstanding,” said Kreis via email. “Israel is by all accounts a world leader in security, which makes it an immensely desirable place to study abroad for CEHC students.”

“Both inside and outside of the classroom, I am learning something new every single day,” she said. “Some days it is simply learning where the best falafel shops are, other days it is learning how national security is approached by Israeli military/police/fire forces. Already, this has been an opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and grow academically, professionally and personally.”

CEHC's 6-month program in Israel is offering hands on-training in national security. (Photo by Emily Barrett)

Joining Forces:

CEHC and BGU have begun discussing the creation of a dual degree program. It would not only strengthen the relationship between New York State and Israel but also provide students with international experiential learning experiences that are directly in line with the mission of CEHC.

Students need 100 hours of field training to complete the college’s undergraduate major.

“CEHC strongly believes in the value of international learning for all of our students,” said Emily Barrett, CEHC’s director of experiential learning and external partnerships. “This semester’s ‘CEHC in Israel’ program serves as an example of the wealth of knowledge available far beyond our classroom walls. We hope it serves as a building block for a stronger relationship with BGU going forward.”

Regardless of location and discipline, Kreis encourages all students to consider a study abroad opportunity before graduating.

“Studying abroad provides such a unique journey regardless of your academic/career field,” Kreis said. “My advice is to challenge yourself. Financially, there is an abundance of options for scholarships and assistance worth inquiring about. It’s an outstanding way to meet new people around the world and uncover yourself.”

You can learn more about the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity here.

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