From Following to Leading: A Teen Instructor's First Year in Dimona

Eden joined BU in Dimona at the age of 14. This year, she returned as a teen instructor, responsible for a group of 14 eighth-grade students.

Preparing for the Role

Before the year began, Eden completed a training program for teen instructors that covered group dynamics, planning activities and handling conflict. She also met weekly with an adult mentor.

The First Months

The beginning was harder than she expected. Some students arrived late, others were not interested in the activities. "I tried to do everything the way my instructor did it, and it didn't work," she says.

With her mentor, Eden changed her approach. She asked the students what interested them and built the activities around their answers.

Small Wins

Attendance rose from about half the group to almost everyone

Two students who had barely spoken began leading short activities themselves

The group completed a volunteering project at a local senior center

What Eden Takes with Her

"Leading isn't about being in charge. It's about noticing each person in the group." – Eden, 17

Eden plans to continue as an instructor next year and is considering a year of service before the army.