Wow… time flies. When I logged onto my computer to write this blog, I couldn’t help but notice it has been over 2 months since I wrote my first one. I can see how much I have matured in this experience as a leader and in independence, as well as the immense amount of knowledge I have gained about Jewish history in these SHORT (too short) 2 months. I had many goals for myself in all different categories at the start of this journey, and I can now say that I have not only completed them, but surpassed them.

First off, a goal for myself was to “keep up my interest in where we come from and pay it forward to others” The paying it forward to others part is still a goal for myself, however, the keeping up an interest in my history part I definitely succeeded. Core didn’t feel like class to me, it was always just exciting and fun to listen to Jacob, our core teacher, talk about topics ranging from the first temple to Zionism. Through my studies I have really formed a Jewish identity and learned about Jewish values and how they relate to me. I now truly understand and have formed my own idea of what it means to be Jewish.

My next goal was to “receive all A’s and expand my knowledge in my general studies courses.” This goal, as I had interpreted before, was tough to achieve. Because of the smaller class sizes at Muss, although you gain much more knowledge in my opinion than back home because of it, much more was demanded of you to perform at your best. When you didn’t know an answer, you couldn’t sulk into your seat, you had to say you don’t know. Because of this, I found myself coming to class more prepared and ready. After taking my finals in my general studies classes, I can say that not only did I gain more knowledge and experience smaller class sizes, but I also received all A’s in my classes.

My third goal was to “at the end of this program I want to have built my character and leadership skills”. One way I hoped to achieve this was by doing things outside of my comfort zone… and I can definitely say I did that. I put myself out there from the start to make friends, I tried new foods, talked to people who didn’t speak the same language as me, and so much more. Muss had really formed my character into a leader by providing so many opportunities, such as leading a group project, giving tours and planning activities. I was also able to talk to a large group who were coming to hear about the school, which was one of my goals. I wanted to be able to be confident talking to any group of people, regardless of my affiliation with them or their age, about my experience. I was also able to participate in a public speaking workshop which will help me continue this goal.

My final goal was to “enhance my connection to Judaism when I get home.” I am not home yet so I can only think about what I will do, however, I do hope to change the ways I practice my Judaism when I get home. Not dramatically, but through this program I have realized the importance of keeping Judaism going in any way, as that is the reason we are still here today. So, when I go home, I plan on trying to have a family Shabbat meal once a month or doing something similar.

Now that this program is coming to an end, I realize how much I have progressed as a person. Leaving here is a different feeling than I have ever felt leaving somewhere. It’s not like camp or a “teen tour”, because of the spiritual connection I have formed here, not just with my Judaism but with the people on my trip. I hope that my Muss family will never fall apart, and Hod will always be my home.