A week from today I will be in Israel. I am very excited about this trip as I have been looking forward to it for a long time. I am looking forward to meeting new people and making new friends and connections all around the United States.

I am eager to learn lot about the country of Israel and its history. I am also looking forward to meeting and getting to know my family while I’m there. I know this will be a time to create memorable experiences including immersing myself in the culture of Israel, trying new foods and going to some of sporting events.

Going away for 18 weeks stirs some doubts and fears. I have never been away from family and friends for more than 3 weeks and I worry about getting homesick. Living with people I don’t know is going to be a little frightening.  I’m concerned that being away for so long that I will get out of shape and that I will lose my arm strength for baseball and my timing will be off for hitting.  I know with risk comes great reward and this semester will be incredibly rewarding.  One reason I applied for Impact Fellowship is the leadership training.  I hope I will learn new public speaking and writing skills and applying them when I return.  I look forward to sharing my experiences over the coming months, and beyond.