We are now about fourteen weeks into the semester, which means we only have about four weeks left until we go back home to the United States. This has been a great experience, where I learned so many things, both educationally, and personally about myself. This experience that I had, is an experience that should not be kept, and should be spoken out to many people, so that they can also have this amazing experience.

Throughout my time here, I have learned to be much more responsible, as well as very good in time management. We have tiyuls very often, and not too much time available, with many activities planned, but if you put the effort into being organized, and managing your time, it is one hundred percent doable. Also, during my time here, I have grown a lot as an individual, because of how I have to do everything alone, without my parents always telling me what to do and when to do it. You live alone with your roommates, and responsibility is needed, due to us doing everything and living our lives alone. There are many experiences here that I have gained a lot from, but one that I really think I gained most from was Gadna.         

Last week, we went to Gadna, in Sde Boker, which is in the south. Gadna is a week of army training, as if we were in the army. Before going, and listening to what it is, I was very scared because I would think that it was going to be very difficult, and demanding. In Gadna, we were taught how to shoot guns, and live as a soldier, sleeping in tents and managing time. While going through the week, I learned how to manage my time, with the things I have to do, because all the work we had was timed. Also, I learned a lot about respect, and discipline, which are two huge factors in the army. Respecting your commanders, and the discipline they give you. You always have to be on your best behavior.

Overall, during my time here I have gained many things, and have experienced many things. With all the Jewish traditions, culture, and history that I have learned, I am going to pass it on to the people in my community. Also, I will show them how this program has changed me in many good ways. I hope that in the last four weeks that we have here, I will keep learning, and experiencing many new great things.