Studying Abroad in Israel: A Rewarding Experience" Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I worked with the British National Curriculum in a country outside the United Kingdom. In some ways this curriculum and the curriculum that we use in the United States are similar but they are also different. It was very unique to teach my students about money usage and early history of the United Kingdom when they are living outside of that geographic location. I found through this experience that it is definitely important to stay organized and find a system that works for you to keep yourself and your classroom organized. It was a joy to work with my cooperating teacher. I learned a lot from her, she was wonderful to collborate with, and she gave me some great ideas. I also really enjoyed working with my observer from the UK. She was very warm and friendly. Her expectations and ideas were very realistic and enlightening. I received a lot of good criticism from her which helped me to be a better student teacher in the long run.

On-site administration of your program

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

During my internship I lived with my boyfriend's grandmother in her apartment in Tel Aviv. She has lived there her whole life. Her knowledge of English was moderate and we were able to communicate with a combination of Hebrew and English. I definitely learned many new words in Hebrew during the time that I lived with her. I also learned how to transport myself around the city and to school every day using public transportation.

In a few words the food here can be summed up as lots of salads, meat, and fresh fruit. Families cook dishes that were handed down from past generations and combine that with local flavors. I tried many different restaurants while on my trip. Pua in Jaffa gives an ecclectic mix of food and gives the impression that you are sitting in an Anthropology store. I also went to a fish restaurant. If you love chocolate go to the chocolate restaurant Max Brenner. Every chocoholic's dream. I also made friends and did BBQ dinners at people's homes.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

While on my trip I celebrated religious (Passover and Shavuout) and national holidays (Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut). I also attended a Yeminite Jewish wedding and after wedding feast called Shabbat Catan. I explored Jaffa, the town that my school was located in and spent time around Tel Aviv, the metropolitan city I lived in.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any safety issues during my trip. Many people think that when you are going to the Middle East you are not going to be safe. Yes, Israel is technically a war zone but at no time did I feel my safety was threatened. My mother did buy my pepper spray before my trip. I would definitely say that if you are in a new place use your common sense and don't go wandering around at night by yourself. Ask for directions anytime you are going some where.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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