"This summer I had the privilege of studying at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and I wouldn't trade the experiences I had there for anything! Throughout my first year as an undergraduate at Michigan State University, I developed a growing interest in foreign cultures, languages, and international politics. I loved seeing new places and trying things I had never done before. I dreamed of traveling to Israel, the center of so many of the world's religious and political issues. Finally this was made possible, with enthusiastic help from MSU faculty members and financial assistance from some generous donors.

I spent nearly six weeks living in Jerusalem, in student dormitory housing, and studying in ulpan, an intensive Hebrew language class. Each day I awoke to the sounds of the city: cars honking, roosters crowing, people chattering in Hebrew, the Muslim call to prayer resonating from one of the nearby mosques. As I walked to the university, I could stop and look out over the Old City of Jerusalem and the spectacular golden Dome of the Rock. Every day I would spend four-and-a-half hours in the classroom speaking, reading, and writing Hebrew, with two excellent Israeli teachers and other students from all over the world. Even though we all began the course knowing almost no Hebrew, very little English was spoken in class so we learned fast! Outside of class I was able to interact with students of all ages from Asia , Europe , and the U.S. It was surprisingly easy to discuss global issues and spiritual topics, as well as share personal stories with the other international students. I enjoyed listening to everyone's unique background and reason for being there. Sometimes we would try to carry on the conversations in Hebrew just for practice, and a few times I even spoke Spanish with other students!

In the evenings we often toured Jerusalem, exploring the old city, bartering for goods in the shook, admiring the beautiful architecture and ancient holy sites, sampling traditional Israeli cuisine, or simply relaxing in a coffee shop with our Hebrew notes and assignments. Several times on the weekends I traveled to other parts of Israel with friends from Hebrew University. This was a great time to relax and enjoy one another's company. I was able to visit the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee, the Red Sea, and the amazing historical and natural attractions surrounding them.

This study abroad experience deepened my understanding of world issues and my respect for other cultures. I appreciate the knowledge, insights, and friendship I've gained from people whose backgrounds are quite different from mine. From getting lost in the city to ordering the wrong dish in a restaurant, it was humbling to live among a foreign culture and language. But I enjoyed learning to speak Hebrew, and every day I seemed to become a little more comfortable with my environment as I understood both the culture and the language better and better. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to make the unfamiliar familiar to me, and I hope to continue to do this for rest of my life."