The one year program is too short to do a full semester studying abroad, but that hasn’t stopped me from traveling every semester to a new country. Over the summer break, I went to Croatia with other one year Tech and Fashion MBAs. I spent part of winter break in Mustique and Italy, and just finished my spring break in Israel. Some of my trips were student organized, Stern offers both “Doing Business In” and “Trek” options for organized travel. DBi’s are more business focused and usually involved class time and a professor. Treks are organized by different student organizations and meant to allow people to explore a different culture. For my spring break, I chose to go on the Jewish Student Association’s Trek to Israel.
Day 1 – Jerusalem
This first day we did a walking tour of Jerusalem including visiting the Western Wall and the Stations of the Cross. Watching thousands of years of history and worship overlap in a city and holy sites was moving beyond belief.
Day 4 – Masada & Camel Rides
One day we woke before sunrise and hiked to the top of Masada to watch the sunrise, we played the Circle of Life as the sun broke over the mountains. After the hike, we did a short camel ride in the desert before our next stop. I did not know I was both terrified and allergic to camels until I was on the camel we named Monte Carlo.
Day 5 – Sea of Galiee
For many Christians, Capernaum is the holiest site, where Jesus’ preaching was first received and he completed miracles. We got to dip our toes into this holy water after touring the area. It was hard not to feel a deep connection to the water in such a peaceful setting.
Day 8 – Tel-Aviv
After spending the week traveling all around the country from South to North we ended the trip in Tel-Aviv. We spent time exploring the city, sitting on the beach, and partying for Purim.