I cried a lot before finally deciding to come to Israel because I am very family-oriented and leaving for nine months seemed like a hard thing to do, but I knew that if I didn’t come, I was going to miss out on the best moments of my life. So, here I am.
After a long 17-hour flight, one hour train ride, and 15 minute cab ride, I was finally in Haifa, Israel. My first day here was very hard for me. I felt so tired from my flight, plus I felt left out and alone because everything was so different and I didn't know anybody. The people here act different. The language is different. Personalities are different. The time zone is different. I realized that many things were about to change in my life. I really missed my family and friends.
It has now been almost a week since my arrival, and I can confidently say that things have gotten better. I have made friends with students who are studying abroad from China, Japan, Germany, France, and several states in the U.S., including Nevada, Wisconsin and California! It is very difficult to make new friends when you are used to the ones you have at home, but so far my best times have been when I am with my new friends here in Haifa. There's nothing better than getting lost and laughing at yourselves afterwards and ordering coffee in Hebrew when you don't even know Hebrew.
Although deciding to study abroad was a hard choice for me, I know it is a choice I will never regret making!
