Human Rights Internship

My name is Sarah Anderson. I am currently finishing my bachelors degree in International and Global Studies at the Univeristy of Central Florida. This summer I decided to do a human rights internship in Hebron, Palestine with the Excellence Center. It has been an immersive and expansive experience. We did activities such as visiting the old city & important religious sites such as the Ibrahimi Mosque, visiting the refugee camps, & speaking with local educators, business owners and artists in the city of Hebron.
My Arabic lessons were very helpful and my teacher was very patient. I learned a lot in the time that I was here. During my trip I decided to stay with a Palestinian host family. They were so sweet and kind. They showed me around the city and local cafes. We also took a trip to Bethlehem. I felt right at home with my host family.
Before coming to Palestine I was very concerned about my safety, however after living here for a month those preconceived notions no longer exist. I felt extremely safe walking throughout Hebron during day and at night.
It’s one thing to the read and hear about Palestine but another to actually experience it.
From the history, to the people, to the land, weather and the food… I loved it all.
Palestine is truly a beautiful country filled with an immense amount of life, beauty, strength, and courage.
This experience will live in my heart forever and I intend to return to Palestine.
I highly recommend anyone who desires to experience & learn more about Palestine to join the Excellence Center.