Why Studying Abroad Changed My Life

Before going to Alexander Muss High School in Israel (Muss), I had never been to Israel. I didn’t have any relatives living there, so most of what I “knew” about Israel came from the news — and unfortunately, much of that was filled with hate, misinformation, and fear. Because of that, I didn’t fully understand the country, the people, or the deep connection it held to my own identity.

Nevertheless, I decided to come, despite not knowing anyone, and it's truly hard for me to put into words how impactful this experience was. I walked in the footsteps of my ancestors on Israeli soil and hiked in places where my ancestors once were, which deepened my connection and understanding of the land of Israel. I was fortunate enough to spend my sweet 16 in Israel, and it's something that I will never forget, from staying in a Bedouin tent in the Negev after a nine-hour hike, to riding camels, and eventually making our way down to Eilat.

By learning history in the exact places where it happened, everything became more meaningful. It wasn’t just information anymore — it was alive.

^{Bolotina at a Concentration Camp in Poland}

Being in Israel, meeting the people, hearing their stories, and witnessing their resilience inspired me to become more involved in standing up for Israel and for the Jewish people. The experience made me stronger, more resilient, more confident, and more passionate and proud of my homeland and my identity.

I returned home changed. I gained independence and confidence in myself that I carry with me every day. Since coming back, I feel a constant pull toward Israel. I go to sleep thinking about it, and I wake up thinking about it. It has become a part of who I am.

I will be eternally grateful for attending this program, and I thank everyone who made it possible for me and hundreds of other kids like me to participate.

Leah Bolotina is a student at Cherry Hill High School East in New Jersey. To learn more about Alexander Muss High School in Israel, visit amhsi.org.