Arik Friedman is a graduate student from Israel. He currently lives in Jerusalem where he teaches civics at the Hebrew University Secondary School. Before starting his academic studies, he learned in 'Yeshivat HaGolan-Hispin' (located in the Golan Heights, Israel). Arik began his academic studies at Bar-Ilan University where he earned his B.A and graduated cum laude in Jewish History and General Philosophy.  In 2004, Arik received the Dean's Excellence Award for his studies.  Currently, Arik is writing his M.A. thesis in Jewish History at Bar-Ilan University. His research focuses on the challenges posed to Judaism by modernity, and includes questions of Jewish identity and religious boundaries.