Experience in Palestine

My name is Shelley and I am a university student in the United States. During my stay in Palestine I was a part of the Healthcare and Medicine program at the Excellence Center. As a part of this program I met with many people who worked in the healthcare field in Palestine: I met with nurses, doctors, nutritionists, educators, and students of medicine. I also was able to tour a hospital and a women’s health clinic, as well as the medical school in Hebron. While learning more about the healthcare system in Hebron, I also was educated more on the political and cultural aspects of the city, and the history of Palestine. I was able to tour many parts of Palestine during my stay and meet with many people who worked and lived here in Palestine. Hearing their stories was very eye-opening. Arabic lessons were also provided, despite not being in an Arabic focused program. The Arabic lessons were very fun and useful, as they were taught in the local dialect. The instructors were very kind and energetic and made me feel very at home. All of the staff and volunteers at the center were very kind and I easily made friends and family while in Palestine.

While in Palestine I had plenty of time to explore different areas both on my own and with the center. I easily travelled to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and small villages on the outskirts of major cities.

While in Palestine I stayed with a host family, and they really welcomed me into their home as if I was one of their own. My host family in particular were some of the nicest people I’ve met, and I learned a great deal from them. Living with a host family allows you to really be immersed in the culture within Hebron by being able to regularly speak with people, meet their families, hear their stories, and share their meals. The host family also makes you feel like you have a safe place to return to after a long day. Hebron itself is a pretty safe place. I will say that taxi-drivers will give you a hard time, and it is definitely a bit harder to navigate if you are a woman. That being said, it isn’t enough to consider not coming to Hebron. There are so many people who look out for you to ensure your safety and experiences in Hebron.

For me the best part about my stay in Palestine was the people that I met and the hospitality they provided. I have made so many friends here and met so many wonderful people who have shown exceptional kindness. The food is also very good, especially if you are able to try a home-cooked meal. Palestine is also a very beautiful country and the sunsets are some of the nicest I’ve ever seen.

Leaving the Excellence Center and leaving Palestine, I know that I will come back. I have truly met some wonderful people and thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I have made friends for a lifetime in just one month, and felt very welcomed. My lasting impression is that despite living under occupation and enduring many hardships, Palestinian people are filled with generosity and a fierce human spirit. I have learned so much about core life values and what really matters in life. I would absolutely recommend traveling to Palestine to anyone interested.