Aviv Hanuka ’26GS’s journey to the Dual Degree Program between Tel Aviv University and Columbia was shaped by military service, global volunteering, entrepreneurship—all of which built resilience and a strong sense of responsibility. As he heads toward a career in finance, Hanuka reflects on how engaging deeply both inside and outside the classroom prepared him for life after graduation.
Tell us about your path to GS:
Before Columbia, my path was shaped by service, entrepreneurship, and experiences across very different environments. I served as a commander in the Israeli military, later volunteered in Ethiopia working closely with communities in very difficult conditions, and then traveled through South Asia, where I also spent time wave surfing. As part of the Dual Degree Program with Tel Aviv University, I spent months in reserve duty while continuing my studies. Around that same period, I built Campus Guru, a SaaS platform that helps students build schedules and make more informed academic decisions. These experiences shaped my perspective, resilience, and sense of responsibility, and ultimately led me to GS.
What has been your proudest moment/greatest accomplishment at Columbia?:
My proudest accomplishment at Columbia has been my ability to foster meaningful discussion and connect with students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. I have always tried to contribute thoughtfully in class and engage openly with people whose experiences differ from my own. At Columbia, that exchange of ideas has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of my education.
Tell us about a class, group, or professor/person at Columbia that was instrumental to you during your time at GS.:
Professor Len Sherman was one of the most instrumental people in my time at GS. He advised me on various matters beyond the classroom, and his guidance had a meaningful impact on me both professionally and personally. His course on strategy formulation was especially valuable, as it gave me a framework for thinking more clearly about decision-making, competition, and long-term direction. His mentorship was an important part of my experience at Columbia.
What advice would you give to a student who's about to start their GS journey?:
Engage. You are not just attending Columbia, you are helping shape it. Our class and campus are only as good as we make them. Be a bridge between your own world and those who may seem like "the other," because some of the most valuable parts of this experience come from real engagement across differences. The more you participate and connect, the more meaningful your GS journey will be.
What are your plans for after graduation?:
After graduation, I will be joining J.P. Morgan’s Private Bank in New York as a summer analyst. Over the long term, I hope to build a career at the intersection of finance, strategy, and entrepreneurship, continuing to learn in environments that challenge me while making a meaningful impact.
Is there anything else about your GS story that you’d like to share?:
I truly want to thank the GS and Columbia teams for being so supportive and genuinely invested throughout my journey. I am especially grateful to my academic advisor, Dean Kate Strzalkowski, for her encouragement, guidance, and care throughout my time here. That support meant a great deal to me and remains an important part of my GS story.
