Impact of Israel- Sofia Ceballos

Welcome back, It’s Sofia and I have just finished my first month here at Muss.

Wow. I can’t believe the reality of my situation. Being at Muss has impacted me mentally, physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. I don’t even know where to begin. Initially, independence is a huge factor that has changed from my arrival. I feel as though I have so much control over my tasks and how I complete them.

For instance, my schedule and going to school has made me more responsible in a sense where I have to separate myself socially to get things like homework done. I’ve learned to manage my time because of this and when to do what. Waking up and making it on time is also an immense part that u am still learning to do. Physically, I am always doing something, even when I have nothing to do, with people or completing work for school. This is a lot different from home because I don’t worry about what I have to do next or where I have to be.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, in a way where this makes me have more control over what I do with my time. Going on trips and hiking often has also made me more active and ready for what’s to come. Socially, I have expanded as a person and opened up myself to so many new people and opportunities. I’m growing as a person as I learn from other and hear about their personal lives. I think everyone is getting comfortable with each other and we are making new friends and forming our own groups. Religiously and in a way spiritually, tiyuls have impacted me in ways where I learn about my own Jewish identity and the history behind it. As we explored the City of David, I found it so fascinating about how many people lived previously and the kingdoms that overtook it in the past.

Overall, this one month alone has not only changed me but changed my thinking. I feel like I have grown in many areas and will continue to throughout my trip. I’m excited to see what’s to come from me and others.

Sofia Ceballos
9/27/21