Masa Israel Journey Blog

Symbols, metaphors, and preparing to come home

Published : June 14, 2012

By Derek Kwait, Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies

So this is it. The end. It’s over.

After Shabbat, I’m going to see everyone again in the fall at best, never at worst. Still, this is ultimately what I signed up for, to become a Pardes Alum.

I’m almost positive that from the moment I touch down in Pittsburgh and for the entire rest of my life, I’ll have to really try hard to convince myself that this whole year wasn’t a dream—usually a good dream, sometimes a bad dream, but always a dream nonetheless, certainly when compared to the reality I used to know.

I don’t know how long it will take to readjust to reality (i.e. America), but even if I do readjust, I’m not the same person I was when I left, I’m much...

Not just for laughs

Published : June 12, 2012

By Sophia Jane Wilkof, Midreshet Yeud

This year I have had the opportunity to put my Zionism into meaningful action.

I chose to go to a seminary called Midreshet Yeud, where I was able to both immerse myself in Jewish learning to strengthen my Jewish identity, and immerse myself in Israeli life through volunteering to strengthen my tie to this land.

I've always loved performing and I wanted to put that passion into something productive that could also contribute to Israel. I researched and discovered medical clowning, which seemed like the perfect match for me!

After a short training session, I became what is called a Medical Clown intern at the Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. Each week I would go to the hospital in full clown garb and makeup to entertain the sick...