Baillie Shuster’s story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to Israel. From her beginnings in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to her current role as a Ph.D. candidate in Psychology at Reichman University, Shuster exemplifies the profound connection between academic excellence and Zionist values.
Born into a deeply Zionistic Jewish family, Shuster attended a Jewish day school that instilled in her a love for Israel from a young age. At just 17, she made the life-changing decision to leave Canada and move to Israel. “After graduating high school, I joined a pre-army leadership and training program at Kibbutz Ma’ayan Baruch,” she recounts. Shortly thereafter, she enlisted in the IDF as a lone soldier in the Sarel Unit, dedicating herself to serving the country she deeply cherishes.
Following her military service, Shuster sought her next chapter in Israel. An open house at Reichman University, then known as IDC Herzliya, solidified her choice to pursue higher education in the country she calls home. “Attending Reichman University felt like the perfect continuation of my journey,” she says.
During her undergraduate studies in psychology at the Raphael Recanati International School, Shuster stood out. She participated in two prestigious honors programs—the “Brain and Mind” program and the psychology honors program—where she delved into cutting-edge research, honed her academic writing skills, and enhanced her critical analysis capabilities. These experiences paved the way for her acceptance into the Technion’s Master of Science program in Cognitive Psychology, where she deepened her expertise in research methodologies and cognitive sciences.
Now, as a Ph.D. candidate at Reichman University, Shuster has returned to her academic roots. Under the mentorship of Prof. Gilad Hirschberger, she is exploring social and political psychology, focusing on Israeli society. “Choosing to pursue my Ph.D. at Reichman University felt natural—it has always been a home to me. The university offers exceptional learning opportunities and a supportive environment that fosters excellence,” she explains.
Beyond academia, Shuster plays a vital role in shaping Israel’s narrative on the global stage. She works full-time as a digital content creator for StandWithUs, an organization committed to educating the world about Israel through credible and impactful online content. Since October 7, 2023, StandWithUs has reached an audience of 2.2 billion people with its digital efforts—a testament to the importance of its mission during these challenging times.
Reflecting on her journey, Shuster emphasizes the synergy between her personal and professional endeavors. “The Ph.D. program allows me to explore my passions, research Israeli society, and grow academically in a nurturing setting,” she says.
From a lone soldier in the IDF to a prominent figure in academia and digital advocacy, Baillie Shuster’s story is a testament to determination, love for Israel, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her journey inspires others to forge their own paths while contributing to the betterment of Israeli society and the global Jewish community.
This article was written in a cooperation with Reichman University