At this time last year, I never pictured myself traveling to a completely different country with a group of kids I've known for less than a year. Well here I am, leaving for Israel in a couple days with a group of people I've learned so much about. When I decided to join this program, I was hesitant about the fact that I would have to learn so much about the past and present state of Israel, but once the monthly sessions picked up, I am very happy I stuck with it. The Zoom and in-person meetings have greatly informed me on many ideas such as the struggles in claiming the holy land, the settlements our ancestors built, the Cleveland water system, and my favorite, Odeds’ mission to save the Dead Sea. Oded Rahav (known as the Dead Sea Guardian) has encouraged me to try and help save the Dead Sea and has also informed me on the struggles the sea has faced. I am very excited to visit this area because of his mission and since the Dead Sea is one of my favorite places in Israel. I am very excited to be included in this trip and to learn more about the state of Israel!