We asked one of our past students to let us know how she felt about Jewel. Her name is Esther Schwartz.

The chance to meet, learn and live with Jewish women from all over the world is one that should not be missed in any spectrum. When such an experience takes place in the Homeland of your ancestors, all the more so, it is an opportunity that must be seized. Jewel is a whirlwind of intellectual, spiritual and emotional opportunities combined into one month of intense excitement. Whether you are coming from a traditional Jewish home or from recently discovering your Jewish roots, Jewel has much to offer you. Its intimate environment allows one to make strong bonds between peers, teachers, Rabbis and administrators as well as live side by side with Israelies in a quaint suburb of Jerusalem. The topics covered within the four week session of Jewel span from: What is this thing Called Judaism?, to thoughts about self-development, mysticism, prayer and the history and politics of the Land of Israel. These topics will broaden your mind, taking a step back to see the bigger picture of the Jewish nation. Through the various field trips around the country, you will be able to further understand the deep connection Israelies feel to their land, as well as the dream so many Westerners have of permanently moving to Israel, despite the troubles we might have with our neighbours. Security seems to be the number one thing on people's minds when considering the option of visiting Israel, whether it is for 5 days or 4 weeks. My first hand experience as a participant on Jewel last summer, allows me to say with confidence that every possible precaution that can be taken IS in fact taken care of, by the Jewel staff. There are specific instructions given to the participants in terms of where they should or should not go, whether alone or with friends; all the while keeping in mind that the ultimate decision of where to go is left to the participant. Such precautions include maps, lists of public transportation options, emergency phone numbers, suspicious things to look for etc. What we often forget about, are those safe neighbourhoods, such as Ramat Eshkol that are not portrayed on CNN, that are secure: where parents still travel freely to work and children attend school without qualms. Such positive elements of Israel's culture must be kept in mind when facing insecurities with safety. With the troubles going on in our 8 mile wide Homeland, there are a multitude of fascinating and intriguing aspects that, now more than ever, need to be seen by its Jewish children. Jewel is THE opportunity that will allow you to experience the reasons why the world's attention is focused on our Homeland.
---Esther