Growing in the Desert

Israel is an uncommon choice for a study abroad program, especially opting for Beer Sheva as opposed to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. I am so glad I chose the Negev though, because I feel that I was able to see how normal suburban life is in another country, and the city's rather neutral political leanings provided a haven for those of us that felt overwhelmed by the enormity of the Israel-Palestine conflict at times. It was humbling to be so close to the desert landscapes that in one way or another inspired the three Abrahamic faiths, and also to be only an hour south of Jerusalem. The ease with which we could access some of the world's most important historical and religious sites still astounds me. I will say that academically, I was hoping that I would be able to participate in more rigorous environmental research; that was eventually available to me, but it started late into my program. The program is truly what you make of it, as you have a lot of freedom and the classes themselves are not demanding. I am really grateful to have been able to live in this space, even despite the frustrating times where we were caught in Jerusalem after Shabbat began and the last bus stopped for the weekend, and we had to spend money on a hostel. These are all adventures unique to Israel, and I left the Negev with a greater understanding of many things, myself included.