Or Hazan, 20, realized a dream by enlisting in the IDF, despite being diagnosed as a high-functioning autist.
"It was important for me to enlist, I wanted to be like everyone else and prove to myself and to others that I'm up to the task," she said.
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Hazan is a musician who plays the French horn in the IDF Orchestra. Born in Kfar Saba, she discovered the instrument within the framework of a municipal conservatory program.
"It wasn't the easiest instrument for me to play, but I have a special connection to it," Hazan explained.
"Military service has given me a lot. Communication problems, which I had when I was younger, became smaller over the course of my service. I felt I was in a warm environment. That's why I extended my service from a year of national [civilian volunteer] service to full military service.
"I've played for ambassadors, IDF chiefs of staff, and ministers. I played at the President's Residence and felt I was representing the country. I've also had the opportunity to play on Independence Day… and you feel as if you're representing the entire army."
Hazan will soon complete her military service and then begin academic studies. Her dream is to play for the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra.
"Although there are other French horn players in the country, there's no question about it – I'll reach the philharmonic. You need to work hard for dreams and not give up," she said.
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