The Best Week Yet
This week was honestly one of my favorites so far. We watched Schindler’s List and had some really powerful lessons about Poland and the Holocaust. On Thursday, we were scheduled to visit Yad Vashem, but the trip was canceled due to a religious protest in the area. Fortunately, our amazing counselors still gave us a wonderful day!
We visited the Bau House, and it turned out to be a truly cool experience. There, we learned about Rebecca and Joseph Bau, a couple who survived the Holocaust and built a life filled with creativity and love — a love that sustained them through the most challenging years. Hearing their story made history feel real, not just something written in a book.
After that, we explored Shuk HaCarmel, which was filled with sounds, fun-loving Israeli people, and the best food ever. I tried things I’ve never eaten before, including my first fish taco. I had so much fun walking around with friends. It was one of those days that mixed learning with real life and reminded me why I am grateful I chose this program. I’m not just learning facts — I’m experiencing stories that will stay with me for a lifetime.
Lastly, after that exciting day, we got to go to my favorite mall I’ve ever been to — the Azrieli Mall in Tel Aviv. It was honestly such an unforgettable experience! The mall was huge, with so many different stores and clothing options. What made it even better was the atmosphere; shopping alongside Israelis made me feel like a local. It was such a fun way to end the day and really experience life in Tel Aviv.

Ben L. Hirsch is a 16-year-old student from Poway, Calif.