The fear of anything beyond one's comfort zone. What a perfect phrase to sum up how I am feeling before embarking on my journey to Israel. Growing up in Miami, Florida I was sent to a Jewish private school for over 10 years where I got a thorough Jewish education. Over the years I had learned about all the holidays, major historical events, and even knew how to read and write in Hebrew. Having had the opportunity to learn all of this I was always curious about where it all happened. Seeing all of my friends go visit the places in Israel which I had only heard about in books didn’t feel fair to me. When I got the call from HSI that I had gotten the opportunity to go to Israel for 4 months I was ecstatic. Not only was I going to study in the country which I have been longing to explore, but I got to go for free almost! Of course I’m a little nervous, any child leaving home for almost 5 months would be. The feeling that stands out the most though when thinking about the months ahead of me is excitement. Excitement to meet new people, explore a new country, learn more about my Jewish heritage, and lastly become a more improved and independent self. Going into this new adventure I expect to make the most of every moment because it really is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I expect to come back with even more respect and love for the Jewish homeland, and a new passion to share my newfound knowledge with the world. I also expect to eat amazing food (very important). I don’t only expect but know that I will come back as a new person, more independent and with new life skills that I will carry on for the rest of my life. As I said before, going to Israel really is out of my comfort zone, but no one can grow as a person if they stay in their comfort zone. I hope to really grasp the essence of Israel in my time there and I hope to be an ambassador that can truly share the essence with those around me. While the experience will only last me 4 months, its impact will stay with me for years and years to come. With that said I could not be happier to begin the life changing adventure that is AMHSI!