I can’t believe I am less than one week away from finally departing for Israel! I have been counting down the days for the past month. I chose to apply for the fellowship because I traveled to Israel over the summer through the sleepaway camp I attend, Camp Seneca Lake, and absolutely fell in love with everything about it. As soon as I arrived home, I began to research ways of returning to Israel as soon as possible. I came across the AMHSI website and began to look into the fellowship. I learned that it would be a great opportunity to learn leadership skills, be independent and meet new people.

In Israel, I hope to learn about my Jewish history through the Jewish History class I will be taking. I would also like to learn more about the land of Israel and the different cultures that coexist. I am hoping to meet great students and teachers. I am looking forward to the different field trips, especially hiking, and being able to escape the snow in Upstate New York!

While I am beyond excited to return to Israel with AMHSI, I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t a little nervous.  My biggest fear right now is that I haven’t started to pack. Since I am the biggest over-packer, this could bring up some challenges! I am also nervous that I will be behind in my schoolwork when I return home. However, I know this will be a once in a lifetime experience and I am ready to get started!