Week 1: It’s funny how I dreamt of having a different routine for the longest time, but when I came here, I felt completely overwhelmed. Many kids were already friends with each other and I, a stranger, began cohabiting with them instantly. All of this can be incredibly scary and unnerving. (I associate this with skydiving.) Yet there’s a part of me that can always be proud of myself for leaping into the sky when most teenagers wouldn’t dare board the plane. I’m already beginning to learn more about myself in this way. 

Besides adjusting to the time zone, amazing climate, and culture, every other aspect of life around here has felt effortless. Most people are kind and chill (including the surplus number of Australians around campus).

The food’s ratings changes on a day-to-day basis. I’m eating more hummus than a year’s worth and lunch for dinner and dinner for lunch (I don’t hate it actually).

As for my education, our core class (Jewish history) is interesting and diverse. Despite it being 4 hours short, I love the relaxed pace and depth our class reaches with such an extended period. We cover current events, the newest holiday songs, Israel geography, and in this unit— Bible history. 

I don’t enjoy all the stories I learn and opinions of Judaism. I often find myself feeling disgusted or disappointed about something from the Bible. However, I appreciate how Lisa (our great teacher) plays devil’s advocate and explains different sides.

As ridiculous as this sounds, I haven’t started my general studies classes yet….but I’m not focusing on the tests I should’ve taken but the phenomenal adventure I just embarked on. We road-tripped to Tel Gezer where archeological sites were our classroom. I felt so serene and one with nature when I was relaxing on a field with the sun shining on me :)

Once thing is for sure, I love it here. 

Peace,

Talia