Alexander Muss has been a dream of mine for a very long time. I have always seen tons of pictures on Instagram and Facebook of students just like me, hiking up Masada, floating in the Dead Sea, and visiting the Western Wall. Therefore, when I heard about the Philadelphia Impact Fellowship, I knew it was meant to be. I was at a NFTY-PAR event last year and I met a girl there who just went to Alexander Muss on the Philadelphia Impact Fellowship. Of course, I already knew about Alexander Muss from my camp friends, but I didn’t know about this Impact Fellowship. After the NFTY-PAR event, I knew exactly what I had to do. I went home and ran to my mom to tell her that I needed to apply.  It’s a year later after I submitted my application and I’m going to Alexander Muss! I didn’t just apply for the Impact Fellowship because I wanted to see all the sites. I wanted to create everlasting friendships, forever memories, and find more of my Jewish identity. I knew I always wanted the experience they had, but I now have the opportunity to make it my own journey.

I went to Israel one time when I was in 8th grade and it was the best experience. I only went for two weeks and I already felt a huge connection with Israel.  When I was in Israel the last time, I loved every second of my journey there.  I still remember everything we did there, even the little things. For example, I remember walking around Ben Yehuda Street, going to the beach, sightseeing and shopping for jewelry.  When I go to Alexander Muss I hope to immerse myself in the culture, discover new places and see how people live their daily lives in Israel. Also, I’m extremely excited to step out of my comfort zone when I’m there, trying new foods and activities. I am already stepping out of my comfort zone taking classes in a foreign country.  I know Alexander Muss is an amazing program and I want to absorb every minute of it.  When I get home I can’t wait to share with everyone this amazing experience!