Academically, my goal on this trip is to expand my knowledge of Jewish history. During my Jewish education in elementary and middle school, I have dedicated a lot of time to reading texts directly from the Tanach, learning about the various laws and stories throughout Jewish history in much detail. Although learning selective texts so thoroughly has provided me with an essential experience of Judaism, I feel as though there is a disconnect with the meaning and value of my Jewish identity. I have been here at Muss for a week, and already I am forming a much more concrete narrative of Jewish history. The stories that I’ve heard and studied, and the customs in which I have been raised are becoming more meaningful to me personally. One of my main goals is to make sense of all this history, and understand how it has impacted my family’s customs, values, and practices.

One of my personal goals is be open to forming deep connections and meaningful experiences with others. The common curiosity about our history unites us in a unique way, and forming friendships with others who are Jewish is not an opportunity to take for granted. Another one of my personal goals is to, instead of focusing on getting good grades (to which there is no real value), try my best to form a deeper understanding and connection with my Judaism and feel passionate about what I’m learning. I want to enjoy to world and people around me, instead of focusing on my earned material possessions.