Reflection from Pearl Kluger, who was awarded a grant from the UJCVP Endowment to participate in a gap year experience in Israel.  

Having finally returned home after completing my incredible gap year in Israel through Young Judaea Year Course, I am filled with a whirlwind of emotions. The past nine months have been a remarkable journey of education, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. Time seemed to fly by as each day brought new insights, challenges, and moments of meaning, shaping me into a more knowledgeable, compassionate, and confident individual. I am immensely grateful for the generous contributions from the UJCVP Endowment Unrestricted Fund and the Bernice S. Gordon Fund of Rodef Sholom, which has made my gap year experience possible. 

During the month of January, I embarked on an incredible journey, exploring both Portugal and Dubai, while also dedicating a week to volunteer in the IDF through the Sar-El program. In Portugal, I immersed myself in the vibrant city of Lisbon, embarking on a tuk-tuk tour, savoring the mouthwatering Pastéis de Belém, and indulging in a captivating Port wine tasting experience. I had the privilege of visiting iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower, the Palácio da Pena, the Quinta da Regaleira, the Biblioteca Joanina, the Livraria Lello, and the São Jorge Castle. Moreover, I delved into the rich Jewish history of Portugal, visiting remarkable sites like the Synagogue of Tomar, renowned as one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in the country. I also had the privilege of visiting the last remaining community of the Belmonte Jews, touring the Jewish museum, and experiencing Shabbat by attending Kabbalat Shabbat and Saturday morning services at a local synagogue in Lisbon. 

In Dubai, I marveled at the enchanting Miracle Garden, wandered through the streets of the Old City of Dubai, and admired the architectural wonders such as the Frame, the Ain Dubai, the Museum of the Future, the central mosque, the Dubai Mall, and the iconic Burj Khalifa. I also explored the Global Village, the Dubai Heritage Center, and the captivating Louvre Abu Dhabi. I was in awe of the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the splendor of the Qasr Al Watan Palace, and the exhibits at the Islamic Museum, To add to the enriching experience, I visited the local office of Netafim, an Israeli irrigation company in Dubai, where I had the privilege of conversing with an Israeli resident. 

During my time in the Sar-El program, I was stationed at an intelligence base located just outside of Tel Aviv-Yafo. This experience provided me with a better understanding of the IDF’s structure, and I actively contributed by organizing essential supplies for the soldiers, supporting their mission in a meaningful way. It was a fulfilling experience, witnessing first hand dedication and commitment of the IDF personnel. 

From February to May, I had the privilege of spending my second semester based right in the heart of Tel Aviv, immersing myself in the vibrant Israeli culture. To enhance my language skills, I took Ulpan classes four days a week, and witnessed rapid improvement in my conversational Hebrew abilities. Simultaneously, I secured an internship with the Israel Security Business Union, a company situated in Ramat Gan, just outside the city of Tel Aviv. During my time there, I had the opportunity to work closely with an Orthodox Jew who resides with his family in Jerusalem. Engaging in thought-provoking conversations, we delved into his perspectives on the intricate political landscape surrounding Judicial Reform in Israel. Moreover, he shared his personal journey of making aliyah from South Africa to Israel with his family, providing me with invaluable insights. 

Within the framework of my internship, I was exposed to the forefront of Israeli innovation through my collaboration with Wind-Buzz, a company dedicated to enhancing the efficiency of wind turbines. My responsibilities included conducting research on potential customers and exploring wind and renewable energy conferences worldwide. Witnessing the remarkable strides in sustainable energy solutions was truly inspiring. 

Shabbats in Tel Aviv presented a contrasting experience compared to those that I spent in Jerusalem. While Tel Aviv is known for its more relaxed observance of religious traditions, with some establishments remaining open, there was still a noticeable respect of the sanctity of Shabbat as numerous places closed in observance. On Friday nights, I cherished the opportunity to enjoy dinner with friends at local restaurants or create our own intimate Shabbat gathering in the comfort of our apartment. Saturdays were often spent in the sun on the beach or strolling along the vibrant Tel Aviv Promenade, relishing the company of friends. 

Although my explorations of Israel during the Tel Aviv semester were not as extensive as those in Jerusalem, I still embarked on memorable adventures across the country of Israel. I had the pleasure of camping along the picturesque shores of the Kineret, visiting the enchanting city of Tiberias, exploring the fascinating Gaza envelope region, venturing north to discover the captivating cities of Haifa and Caesarea, and even spending a night in Metula, located near the borders of Syria and Lebanon. These experiences enriched my understanding of Israel’s diverse landscapes and deepened my connection to its rich history and culture. 

In summary, my gap year experience has exceeded all my expectations. I am filled with gratitude for the lifelong friendships and meaningful connections I have cultivated during this transformative year. Through my immersion in Israeli society, I have gained a profound understanding of the historical and contemporary significance of Israel as a Jewish homeland. Witnessing first hand resilience, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of the Israeli people has reinforced my commitment to the preservation and prosperity of this extraordinary nation. This experience has enriched my worldview and ignited a lifelong curiosity to explore and celebrate diverse cultures. 

As I bid farewell to this extraordinary chapter, and prepare for my studies at the University of Virginia, I am inspired to share my knowledge, stories, and passion for Israel and my Jewish heritage with others, fostering understanding, and promoting unity. My gap year has been a transformative stepping stone, equipping me with the tools and perspectives to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I am beyond thankful for the community's generous contribution to make my gap year experience possible.