Vantage point-Jerusalem

Atop one of the highest mountains and facing the hills of Jerusalem, I often stare out and see the golden hue of the ancient walls. The plaza outside our Beit Midrash is a great place to look out and think about my experience in the holy land, spending a year of learning and growth-not just a “gap” to college. Although I’ve only been here a few months, the experience has been life changing.

I did not originally expect to be spending the year learning in Yeshiva in Israel. After much thought and consideration and a brief visit, I decided to spend the year at Yeshivat Sharei Mevaseret Zion. I believe I made a great choice. Great rabbeim from diverse backgrounds, from a graduate of Yale Medical School to the Mir and kids with a modern orthodox background but from all over North America: Texas, Chicago, Tennessee and Canada-all brought together in an amazing atmosphere. Combined with trips around the country, we marvel as we follow the footsteps of our forefathers. I’ve already made great friendships that will last a long time.

Living in the land of Israel, learning Torah for its own sake and studying many aspects of Judaism in an intellectually challenging program is nothing like I’ve ever experienced before.

In the coming weeks I wish to share with you the experiences of other Five Towners, like me, spending their post high school year in Israel. Through words and photos I hope to bring you a little closer to our vantage point.