In Their Own Words…
Excerpts of 2014 Y2I Post Trip Essays
On the plane ride heading to Israel, the idea that I was heading towards a life changing
experience had not yet sunk into my head. Only after the trip was over, had I realized that Y2I
was a life changing experience for many reasons. Not only did Y2I make me want to go back to
Israel and learn Hebrew, it also helped me meet so many amazing teenagers that I can say have
impacted my life and that I can call my closest friends.
Juliette Albo, Swampscott
The plane ride was a metamorphosis. All together we were only thinking about one thing, our
one mutual thought was our Judaism. In this way each and every one of our Jewish identities
began to move and change in response to each other. As I was called to partake in a mitzvah and
sing the shema before entering Israel, I had only this unity on my mind. Welcome home. When
we finally arrived I felt a feeling of acceptance that I never felt before. I believe the Y2I
experience is all about: Israel being our home and its survival is equivalent to our own survival
as the Jewish people.
Ben Alvarez-Dobrusin, Marblehead
I can’t wait to go back, I felt very safe there. We had the Iron Dome that made me feel very safe!
Seth Baigelman, Peabody
Being a Jew going to Israel, you feel this connection when you are there. The feeling of this
connection is indescribable, but there is something there. To me, I felt safe and I felt welcomed.
Being a Jew in Israel really made me feel like I was home, it's my home away from home, a
place where I can go and feel welcomed by complete strangers. The experience that I, as an
individual had, was something that I will cherish for the rest of my life, and it’s something that I
will tell my kids and their kids so they know how great it is to go to Israel.
Max Barbash, Middleton
By the end of the trip, I felt like a piece of me had been attached to Israel, and when I came home
it was still there. I did not want to have to leave that extraordinary place any sooner than I had to.
It was very hard to say goodbye to the place I was still getting to know and love.
Risa Berman, Marblehead
I didn’t get to experience all the things that Israel had to offer but that has only made me want to
return to Israel in the future. Y2I gave me a taste of Israel and I look forward to returning and
experiencing my homeland and all it has to offer.
Max Blake, Peabody
On that very bus ride, it hit me that I may not have a lot in common with everyone on this trip
but we do all have that one thing, we’re all Jewish. I took on this trip with 2 of my best friends
from school, but I left Israel with a lot of new friendships that I will cherish for the rest of my
life.
Samantha Blank, Nahant
A home is a safe haven; a place where you are surrounded by people who love you. Israel is just
that. No one in Israel is a stranger. Even if you do not know someone in Israel, you know them.
This is because of the bond between every Jew. Everybody talks to everybody because they
have something to say, they want to, they can, and so they do. Israel has such a close-knit
community. There is so much love in the air it covers you like a blanket strangling any emotion
from being released besides happiness. This trip helped me to realize the true strength of Israel.
In a country full of so much adversity, catastrophe, and hardship, the people of Israel can live so
happily, and it is truly something to admire.
Isabel Block, Georgetown
Being in Israel with all of my new friends made me feel more Jewish than ever. Exploring Israel
and the Jewish culture enhanced my Jewish identity, but I feel that being surrounded by my
friends enhanced it greatest. By bringing us all together Y2I enhanced our Jewish identity.
Vlad Blyakhman, Swampscott
Many aspects of Y2I enhanced my Jewish identity. The connections I felt towards the Israelis,
other teens on the trip, and Israel as a whole made me proud to be a Jew. These connections
helped me realize that although less than one percent of the world’s population is Jewish, there
are many Jews all over the world and I am proud to be one of them. Another factor that made me
proud to be a Jew is the other teens on the trip. I only knew a handful of people going into the
trip but I came home with bonds that could last a lifetime. Everyone on the trip shared the
attribute of being Jewish and that brought us together. Knowing that there are many great people
in the North shore and around the world that happen to be Jewish, completely changes my
perspective of what it means to be a Jew. This was a truly life changing experience.
Joshua Book, Lynnfield
Israel has changed me for the better. When I grow up, I want to become an ambassador for the
United States, and hope to help Israel and the USA work out ways to keep the peace. The issue
with the Gaza Strip has made me realize that Israel is completely misunderstood, and needs
someone to vouch for the decision it is making. I hope that I can achieve this goal, and one day
help Israel reach a lasting peace. I want to make it so that Israeli students do not expect to go the
military after high school, and that soldiers with guns are not as common a sight as it is. My trip
to Israel has made me realize this.
Sara Bornstein, Marblehead
Traveling to Israel was a wonderful and once in a lifetime opportunity that I received through
Y2I. I never realized how small Israel was but how strong of a country it is. I am even prouder
today to be Jewish after traveling to Israel.
Jason Brenner, Swampscott
Although the activities were fun, my favorite part of this trip was connecting with other Jewish
teens from my community and my new Israeli friends. I feel that I have made new connections
with people that will last a lifetime.
David Carey, Marblehead
This trip to Israel gave me a deeper faith in what I believe in, and it has been a deeper faith than I
even understand right now. Like, I have no idea why, during my first Shabbat back home in
Beverly, I so easily just gave up my Red Sox ticket so that I could go to Shabbat Services on the
beach. That night as I sat at our Shabbat service looking at the water, it was like looking out at
the Sea of Galilee. I had new thoughts - I wanted to do more for my temple and I wanted to
learn to speak fluent Hebrew. By the end of services, I made a commitment to my friend Max
that this is what I was going to do in the coming year. I believe I went through these changes
because of my new connection to Israel.
Roman Carnevale, Beverly
Before the Y2I trip I didn’t realize how important Israel was to me. I knew that Israel was
important as a homeland for Jews all over the world, but that didn’t have too much meaning for
me personally. I had no need for another homeland. After experiencing this year’s modified trip,
I finally understood how necessary Israel is. When I went to Israel and saw the countries Israel
fought against and listened to the stories of the Bau sisters, I decided Israel is more important to
me than I originally thought. I learned that Israel needs to exist for me and every other Jew
because there is nowhere else safe for them.
Dan Cipriani, Beverly
Y2I has made me very proud to be Jewish. I realized that because everyone who I was
surrounded with for the 8 or 9 days was all great people. Back at home I'm not surrounded by
many Jewish kids that often. I realized being around them all the time made me truly appreciate
where I come from. Y2I was one of the best experiences I've ever had and made a lasting impact
on my life.
Mark Cohen, Marblehead
Y2I showed me natural beauty. My whole life I have lived in Marblehead, with an ocean view
from my bedroom window. If I look out the other window I see woods with different kinds of
trees. But all that I have seen in the United States combined does not compare to the sights in
Israel.
Sam Cohen, Marblehead
Another major pro is that for the first time I was part of a majority. I had never been surrounded
by so many Jewish people. Being in Israel with 100+ Jews made me feel more comfortable being
Jewish. Everyone on the trip was so proud of being Jewish that it made me want to be Jewish. I
came to both the realization that I was proud to be part of such a special religion, and that I want
to raise my kids Jewish to help continue the long line of Judaism. I want my kids to be able to
experience being part of such a rich and diverse culture with a storied history. I want them to be
able to go to Israel and feel at home with their fellow Jews, just like I got to experience.
Max Conway, Lynnfield
The main topic of Momo’s talk was the importance behind staying Jewish, marrying Jewish and
raising our children Jewish. Now at first we might think, why are we talking about raising our
kids Jewish when we are only teenagers? However, I think it is very important because with
these ideas in mind, it sets forth a path of a life filled with Jewish thought and guidance. Momo
stressed the importance of keeping Israel alive and not in the sense of financially supporting
Israel, but by visiting Israel and taking pride in our Jewish heritage. He enhanced thoughts that I
had already possessed about being Jewish and enlightened me on the true importance of sticking
together as Jews to make sure we never fade away.
Morgan Cooper, Beverly
Y2I was a great experience that allowed me to fall in love with Israel. The landscapes, the food,
the people, are all part of a several thousand-year-old legacy that I have the privilege of being a
part of. Israel has given me a place where I feel like I can go and belong.
David Feinberg, Lynnfield
Even though I may not have realized this during the trip, after a couple days of reflection, I have
obtained a new sense of Jewish pride, a love for Israel, and adoration for my new friends and
relationships created through this wonderful experience. I have an inseparable bond with the
teens who attended this trip, my homeland of Israel, and with Jews all over the world.
Charlotte Freed, Gloucester
Instead of one brilliant “aha” moment like many people write about in these essays, though, I
think it was more of a gradual shift for me as the trip progressed. You see, Y2I did not just bring
me to Israel. Israel is a captivating place – a beautiful and fascinating land with fascinating
people, and a special place as well, due to its religious significance to so many (and not just
Jews, of course) – but it is only one piece of Y2I. The spirit of this trip is not just in the land. The
spirit is in the people. And not just the Israeli people. Y2I gave me the gift of a week and a half
with 100 impossibly friendly teens my age whom I had not yet met.
Melissa Freed, Danvers
Before this trip I would just say that I am Jewish, but looking back on that, I did not really know
what being Jewish meant. Being Jewish is a feeling. Israel gave me this feeling. Israel gave me a
feeling of being at home, and of family. Being Jewish is a feeling that no matter where you are, if
you find other Jews, other family, you are at home. Although I had always known that when I
was older I wanted to raise my children Jewish, after this trip I feel as it is not even an option. It
would be unfair to deprive them of the amazing feeling of family, and being at home that I felt
while on this trip. Israel is truly a strong, amazing, and resilient country and we were lucky
enough to witness that first hand. I now could not be more proud to be Jewish and thankful to
have gotten to have a fantastic experience in one of the greatest countries in the world, with
people who I now would consider my family.
Emma Gamble, Danvers
After my most recent trip to Israel with Y2I, though it was completely not what I or anyone else
had expected, I felt my Jewish identity had been reinforced and built upon. I feel at home and
welcome in Israel and that I am an integral part of this beautiful country that comes together in
adversity, believes in its values, and invests in its future.
David Giliver, Marblehead
I felt more alive in Israel than I ever have in my yellow house. I felt like I belonged. Being
around a new and yet familiar culture was an experience that I will never forget. From the Golan
Heights to the Mediterranean Sea to the water hikes, I not only developed a new sense of Israel
and the Jewish people, but also myself. I saw firsthand that the Jewish people are survivors; that
despite everything that was going on in the news, the Israelis are thriving and making the best of
a difficult situation. It made my love of Israel and the Jewish people that much stronger.
Sara Gindes, Marblehead
I had been told all my life about how Israel was the homeland for the Jewish people, and that
when you are there you can say that you are Jewish and not feel any different. I found this to be
true, and I will continue to relay that message along with showing and voicing my support for the
State of Israel.
Alex Golding, Wakefield
Once we got to the airport there was a welcome home sign waiting for us. I soon realized that
Israel was my home from how we were automatically accepted into the culture. I felt like I
belonged even though I was in such a new place. Going on this trip gave me a real perspective
and proved how important Israel is to me. Y2I was an amazing experience and it made me
thankful and proud to be Jewish. This trip gives new friends, new opportunities, and new
perspectives. This trip is so important because it gives teens knowledge about our second home
that we may never have known.
Alana Goodman, Marblehead
The experience that I had in Israel is one that I will remember for the rest of my life. I felt
completely safe throughout the entire trip, and like I really belonged in Israel. After this trip, I
can honestly say that I think of Israel as a home away from home.
Aliza Grant, Swampscott
Israel might have the magic of Jerusalem in all its holiness, but while in Israel I saw a different
kind of magic. I saw the magic of a people standing as one, persevering and prospering in a land
of enemies trying to bring about its destruction. After being in Israel in this time of crisis, I see
the importance of not taking Israel for granted. No longer will I sit on the sidelines and hope
everything works out for Israel; I will take action in making sure there will always be an Israel
for our people to call home.
William Green, Swampscott
Being in Israel was a life changing experience that I will never forget. My trip to Israel enhanced
my Jewish identity because it is the homeland of the Jews.
Henry Greenbaum, Beverly
Being in Israel with a large group of teens where everyone was Jewish was so surreal and
incredible, you automatically had something in common with most people in Israel, and the teens
we were just meeting on the trip. Being in Israel was an amazing experience by itself, but being
in Israel with 100 other teens is something I wish everyone gets to experience because it was
truly amazing.
Maxine Greenstein, Beverly
On this trip to Israel, I got to see more of what Israel actually is beyond the sights which made
the trip more personal to me. We saw more of the everyday life of people outside of the city and
witnessed what goes on beyond the media.
Jake Hamelburg, Marblehead
This trip strengthened my Jewish identity to the umpteenth degree and taught me the true
definition of being Jewish. Being Jewish isn’t just going to Israel, taking a photo on a camel, and
posting it on Facebook with the Star of David emoji. Being Jewish is supporting your people’s
homeland as much as possible, creating everlasting bonds with Jewish teens from your area, and
keeping your faith wherever life takes you. Y2I helped me achieve just that, and I cannot express
how grateful I am to the Lappin Foundation for allowing me to be a member of this life changing
and eye opening journey.
Olivia Hazlett, Marblehead
Being a Jew in Marblehead, I’ve always been aware that we’re in the minority. But when I
arrived in Israel and was suddenly surrounded by Jewish culture I felt the change. I understood
what it means to be part of something important. I could feel how genuinely happy everyone,
even complete strangers, were to welcome us “home.” It was an amazing experience I didn’t
know to even want, but now I am so grateful to have had. I can now call Israel my homeland and
mean it.
Jack Hertz, Marblehead
This trip gave me a strong connection to a place that I originally had very little feeling towards; I
didn’t concern myself with the issues in Israel because it’s so easy to forget anything other than
one’s own comfortable life. Taking this trip gave me that passion that I lacked for Israel in
school during studies; it showed me the reality and severity of the animosity between Israel and
Hamas. I want to be involved and stay updated and internationally aware, and I want to see Israel
find peace with its neighbors.
Anastasia Keva-Vainas, Marblehead
I feel that seeing firsthand the next generation of Jewish people has given me very much hope; it
has given me hope in Judaism's ability to remain and even strengthen as we are so obviously an
incredible people with an astounding ability to rebound back, not only strong but stronger than
we've ever been. This trip has also given me strength in myself and my Jewish identity, perhaps
not religiously but without a doubt helped my self-image as a Jew. This trip has made me realize
that we are the strongest minority out there and that we always have a place to call home even
when we’re feeling alone in our beliefs.
Meira Khayter, Swampscott
Just wow. That’s the only word I can think of. There’s really no way you can describe this trip in
one word. It really was “a trip of a lifetime”.
Rachel Kidd-Levy, Swampscott
Y2I not only gave me the gift of traveling to Israel, but also the gift of one hundred and seven
amazing new friends. These friends are unlike any other group of people, as we are all
connected by one incredible bond, Judaism.
Isabella Kornitsky, Swampscott
This idea of unity in a country that is often a safe haven for Jews being persecuted around the
world makes an American Jew like myself recognize the strength of Judaism. After being
persecuted and ostracized throughout the world, Judaism has become known across the globe. I
am proud to be a Jew and I feel very fortunate to have been able to travel with the counselors and
wonderful people who worked on this trip.
Sam Koufman, Manchester
Another amazing benefit I received from this trip was meeting all of the teens, my new friends
on the same trip as me. I had a life changing experience in Israel and hope to come back to my
“home” sometime in the near future. I appreciated it more than I ever thought I would.
Evan Kramich, Lynnfield
After my 10-hour plane ride from JFK to Israel I stepped outside the airport and felt something
very strange to me, something I didn’t usually feel when visiting other places. It was a familiar
feeling, as if I had been there before. When the final day approached, and it was time to go
home, I sat in the airport and thought about what the familiar feeling could have been when I
first felt Israel’s heat. Eventually I realized after thinking about all the friends I had made, the
places I went to, and the memories I made, that the feeling I had the day I arrived was the feeling
of being home. Israel will always be my second home.
Eric Krouss, Marblehead
Y2I is not just a trip to Israel; it’s an experience that not many people, especially teens, are able
to get. It is a voyage to the homeland, to a place where our heritage blossoms, where being
Jewish is not something joked about, where you can be proud to call yourself Jewish and meet
others that share this pride. This trip allowed me to not only become more proud of my people
and religion, but proud of my home (Israel), a very tiny country surrounded by people that don't
want them there, forced to protect themselves.
Jacob LaFlam, Peabody
The people, the food, and the culture were all amazing things to experience, and I can’t wait to
go back. Israel was the most amazing experience of my life and I will cherish my memories for
my entire life.
Adam Lan, Swampscott
What really made the trip for me though were the people who were there with me. As a normally
shy person, I made so many connections with the people on the trip through the amazing
experiences we shared together. Though I came far from seeing all of Israel, I was enthralled
with the sights I did get to see and the overall sense of community I could feel with everyone
there.
Cory Lanza, Lynnfield
Going to Israel enhanced my view of what it means to be Jewish. It made me see the Jews as a
people, with a common culture, rather than simply individuals who share a religion.
Joshua Lederman, Marblehead
Y2I was hands-down been the best trip of my life. I lived up every moment and made friends
that I will never lose connection with. Y2I rekindled friendships that never left, made memories
that will last forever, and put a smile on my face that will never leave. I believe that I found
myself in Israel and that I am now a better person because of this trip. I felt such a happiness,
excitement, comfort, and belonging to this country that will never leave my heart.
Jamie Levenson, Swampscott
This trip has been the experience of a lifetime. I’m not just saying that because that’s what
people want me to say, but that I will never have an experience quite like this again. The Israeli
people are an abnormally strong population of individuals. They’ve strived through so many
hardships and triumphed when complete destruction seemed inevitable. When I talked to the
Israeli kids on their brief visit with us, it shocked me by how unaffected they were from the
attacks. They told me how important it was to just go through your day with a smile, and make
the best of a dim situation. I will take that piece of advice with me and use it for the rest of my
life.
Adam Linsky, Marblehead
Although I am not religious, but 100% Jewish, I did not expect this small journey to be so
unforgettable and cognitive about the land of my people. Before this trip, Israel was only a small
country across the world with a huge past and great present to me, but now it is and will always
be a place I can surely call home. Thank you for making a dream a reality!
Yana Litvak, Swampscott
After going to Israel I realized not only was the trip worth it, but Israel felt like a second home to
me. This trip may not have gone as planned, but the activities that I got to experience and the
beautiful places I was able to explore have been highlights of my life. I made friends on this trip
both local and Israeli, and I felt safe and comfortable around everyone.
Joshua Lovins, Marblehead
On the 10-1/2 hour flight to Israel I began to make connections with the people sitting around
me. Although I didn’t know them before the trip, having our Jewish faith in common felt like a
strong bond. No matter what we were talking about, whether it was food or exhaustion or how
nervous we were, it felt like I had known them for years.
A.J. Lurie, Peabody
Traveling to my homeland, Israel, immensely impacted me in numerous ways. I was able to
understand what family really means and that we all have to stick together and fight for our
people. You never realize how important it is to be Jewish in our world until you visit Israel. You
don’t have to see all the tourist spots to be able to deeply appreciate what Israel is all
about. Israel made me feel equal in a way that I have never felt before and warmed my heart
knowing that I'm always welcomed home.
Ariana Malcolm, Swampscott
My trip to Israel not only changed my outlook on Judaism but also changed my life. This trip
made me want to embrace my Jewish religion so much more than I already did. Going to Israel
meant so much to me; it truly allowed me to find myself. Being in Israel allowed me to finally
realize what I have been told since I was little, that Israel is my home. I never understood what
people meant when they would tell me Israel is my home, but immediately after I got there, I
finally understood.
Aliyah Marberblatt, Swampscott
That was the weird thing for me; that I could fly 6,000 miles across the globe, arrive in Tel-Aviv,
and drive up through the views of the Golan Heights and not feel away from home, as if I never
even left. The whole trip I was trying to convince myself that I was in Israel, that I was in some
far away land but I couldn’t. It took me about a week into our adventure that I realized I was
home, as if I never left. Never in my life had I been so far away from home, but yet be even
closer to home.
Alexander Mednick-Fizz, Middleton
I wish I could go back to Momo now and look him in the eye and tell him, "You don't have to
worry," because when I see the people on this trip I see what the Jewish people are and always
will be and why they will never wither away. Intelligent, loving people who are never afraid to
live. Even if it's in the desert surrounded by people who hate our guts, we will live and I have the
utmost faith in that. Because people like these don't just randomly pop up by chance in groups of
100, no, this is our culture. A culture hunted to near extinction, and now I understand what it
means to have this heritage. It's a heritage that promises to keep on living. No matter where, no
matter how, we will remain alive because of the wonderful people we all are, and I now
understand the most important thing of being Jewish. I can finally say 17 years in, that I am of
the people that plow forward, and who are truly, really and always, alive.
Shahen Melkonian, Peabody
…when I heard the news that 20,000 people showed up for one soldier’s funeral, all my concerns
went away. Israelis and Jews in general know how to stick together and support the community
and the people within it.
Zack Michaels, Marblehead
Y2I 2014 was certainly a trip that changed my life. Our group traveled to so many cities and
locations that enhanced my Jewish identity. While in these ancient locations, I and my fellow
Y2I members felt like we were truly home. After being in Israel for these two weeks, Israel truly
means my second home, a place where I know I will be accepted by other fellow Jews and
Israelis.
Michael Neff, Danvers
After living in Israel, I not only want a home that offers the joys of Judaism, but I also want them
to have a home in Israel, as I did, and to understand that family can extend further than blood.
Israel taught me that second cousins thrice removed are loved as my aunts, and that someone not
related to me at all is as important to me as my brothers. I love the love that Israel taught me to
value so highly.
Rebecca Neuman-Hammond, Marblehead
Despite the shortened trip and the revised itinerary, Y2I was an outstanding experience. It was a
life-changing opportunity that allowed us to connect with the state of Israel, to the awesome
people living in Israel, and to each other. It gave us the ability to take pride in our heritage and
to explore who we are as Jewish American teenagers and who we can be as future Jewish
leaders.
Joshua Okon, Marblehead
The trip gave me so much pride for Israel. I never thought of Israel as my home. Things have
changed. Israel is now one of my homes, and I am so proud that I can say that Israel is the most
welcoming place on earth. The second you got off the plane someone welcomed you and said,
“Welcome home”. Israel was a place where every person around you had something in common;
it was that everyone there was Jewish.
Jacob Ostrovitz, Essex
Going on this trip made me realize that there are other Jewish kids who are just like me. I made
friends who understand my religion. I wasn’t different; I was like everyone else. To have Jewish
friends means a lot to me. My views on Israel have become clearer. I forever verbally defend
Israel.
Aliza Ottenheimer, Rockport
Before going to Israel my thoughts and beliefs have differed from how they do now. I was at
first afraid to go to Israel hearing about all the violence that occurs there and I was scared to
figure out if I was truly going to find Israel my home. When reaching Israel all those fears just
seemed to wash away. Seeing that the sun was shining bright and the Israeli people were happy
to greet us, I felt welcomed. Being with over a hundred Jewish kids my age and knowing that
they are with me and by my side made me feel safe. I am glad to have met those people who
share the same religion as me and it gives me a greater connection to my Jewish identity.
Katie Papele, Swampscott
Before my trip to Israel I had no idea what to expect and often doubted the journey I was about
to encounter. In the first ten minutes of being in Israel, I already felt a part of something special.
Reflecting on this trip, I was able to experience a completely different culture and made a
handful of new friends. Despite the conflicts, I was able to have a fun time and will not forget
my experience in Israel.
Nick Papele, Swampscott
Before going to Israel with the Lappin Foundation, I hardly knew any Jewish teens. It all
changed the day my parents and I drove up to Temple Ner Tamid on July 6th. This trip was life
changing. I now have 100 plus new friends who are Jewish and amazing.
Zachary Patt, Wenham
When I arrived home, something came to me that the trip had taught me sub-consciously. I
always had thought of anti-Semitism as a thing of the past. I acknowledged that there were still
some who didn't like the Jews, but when I got home and heard about the rampant anti-Semitism
and anti-Israel ideas spreading throughout the world, especially in Europe, it disgusted me. And
yet, all this did was make me feel more proud to be Jewish. This is the biggest thing the trip gave
me, more than any of the amazing friends I made. A Jewish pride, and a necessity to fight for our
survival, as Israel is having to do now, are the gifts I received.
Brooks Richon, Gloucester
My faith and position in the Jewish community are now well defined. I didn’t really understand
what it meant to be Jewish when I was younger. Talking to Momo made me realize and
understand what it really means to be Jewish. I now stand up to those who say I’m not Jewish
and have pride telling people I am Jewish! I want to thank Mr. Lappin and the staff of the Y2I
group for igniting my new sense of Jewish pride and identity. My future and the pride that I have
discovered will stay with me for the rest of my life. Thank you!
Cooper Robbins-Lentz, Swampscott
Y2I has made an enormous impact on my life. It has strengthened my Jewish identity and has
firmly rooted me to the Jewish faith. My curiosity has awoken and I have many questions about
my heritage and future responsibilities regarding my faith, family and future devotion to Israel. I
have always known that I am Jewish, but after this trip I want to learn more about being Jewish
and preserving my family’s history and promising future. With the knowledge of my roots and
ancestry, I am devoted to being part of the Jewish community, and when I get married, I want
my children to be raised in our faith and experience my new found sense of wonder and awe with
my Jewish faith and history.
Madison Robbins-Lentz, Swampscott
Y2I strengthened my Jewish faith (as well as pride) and has inspired me to want to learn Hebrew
fluently, attend services more and learn more about our faith and traditions. After being in Israel
for 10 days and being surrounded by the constant flow of Hebrew, I had a realization of how
badly I want to learn Hebrew. Also, after seeing how truly amazing Judaism is, it helped me
decide that I would like to learn and understand more about our faith and practices. I have
attended more services recently because of this.
Malachi Rosen, Marblehead
The Y2I trip enhanced my Jewish identity, as I had learned about all the struggles Israel had with
her neighboring counties; I was able to gain pride in the Israel as a country of my own. The
impact Y2I had on my life was one I can never forget: Y2I taught me a greater sense of my
Jewish community, as I become reunited and introduced to many Jewish teens, which I can now
look at as my lifelong friends. After my Y2I I am not afraid or ashamed to call myself a Jew, but
I am now proud of my Jewish identity.
Sarah Rosenberg, Salem
Although we only met for one day, I still believe the day we spent with the Israeli teens was the
day I felt the most connected to Israel. While our trip was cut short, I made friendships that will
last forever not only with the Y2I teens, but also with the Israelis.
Whitney Rosenberg, Swampscott
Experiencing Operation Protective Edge during my unique Y2I adventure gave me a true
understanding of the importance of Jewish blood and the need for the existence of a Jewish State.
The Israeli narratives, which cannot be heard on CNN or Fox News, made an ever-lasting impact
on me. After traveling to Israel during the summer of 2014, my love for the State of Israel cannot
be expressed in words. I feel a duty and responsibility to Israel, a place I can call home, to urge
my friends, family, US Representatives, and Senators to support Israel and to tell the Israeli
narrative to the world. I constantly find myself checking the Jerusalem Post and the IDF’s
Twitter page for news in my homeland. Thank you, Mr. Lappin, for your generosity and
establishing my love for Israel. The importance of Jewish blood and the Jewish state will never
be forgotten in my heart.
Alex Rosenthal, Marblehead
Being in Israel just made me feel more Jewish. Being surrounded by the language, the food and
other Jewish people I felt a part of something special.
Benjamin Schutzman, Beverly
What I admire most about Israel is her strength and heart. Israel and the Jewish people have
always faced adversity. But even when times get tough, even when other people and other
countries knock us down and try to belittle us or hurt us or say we are not good enough we
always get back up, stronger than before. For years, this was something my Hebrew School
teachers told me. But it was not until I was actually in Israel, experiencing this firsthand with all
the rockets and fighting that I really understood just how strong we are. I am so proud to be
Jewish. I always have been. But going to Israel revived the Jewish person inside of me and
made it stronger and prouder than ever before.
Cam Segal, Marblehead
The Y2I experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, gave me the opportunity to make
everlasting friendships and strengthened my Jewish identity. Y2I had a lifetime impact on me.
Being in Israel made me appreciate how proud I am to be able to call myself Jewish and have a
homeland as nice as Israel.
Alexa Shapiro, Marblehead
I have been to Israel many times with my family, but one thing that made this trip even more
special is that I got to travel and see new things and experience them with people who became
like family. The Israeli teens along with this trip gave me a stronger understanding of the
importance of staying Jewish and knowing where I come from.
Roie Shemesh, Danvers
I expected on this trip to be visiting my homeland a country that against all odds has thrived and
westernized. I found exactly that, but at the same time so much more, and my outlook on what
Israel truly means to me has forever changed. Israel for me has become less of a homeland and
more a safe haven. How could a nation that every day is forced to stand up to adversity just to
protect its own citizens still be willing to extend the olive branch before the sword. This ideal of
peace over war directly affects the culture of the Israeli people. From the moment you step foot
onto the plane and you get that first small taste of the rich Israeli culture you never want to let it
go and you never can. This trip left me feeling more Jewish than ever before and left me wanting
more. I am happy because I know when I return to Israel in the future, I will be returning home
and it will feel like I have never left.
Cole Shevory, Marblehead
Israel has gone from being a Jewish homeland in the Middle East, to MY homeland. A few
experiences brought out this new love for Israel in me. First off would have been the friendliness
of the Israelis towards us, specifically the “Welcome Home” when we arrived, or when Momo,
talked to us. Second would have been the market of Safed, the city practically on top of a
mountain. To be in a market that has been the marketplace for hundreds of years, was a strange
feeling that I could not get over while inside. It was extremely unique.
Ben Shufro, North Reading
Y2I has changed what Israel means to me by making me realize it is truly a home for all Jewish
people, myself included. I had always supported Israel but can now truly call it a home after this
trip. Standing in the land where my religion and heritage were developed was an amazing
experience. Just simple things like meeting Jews from around the world that all came to the same
country to feel the same things that I felt was incredible. There was never a day where I felt
anything but comradery towards Israelis and any other Jews who were in the country. Israel
offers both protection and a spiritual connection to Judaism in the past, present, and future. This
trip to Israel will always be remembered by me as a time where I discovered a new home. I can’t
thank the Y2I organization and all of its supporters enough for allowing me to have this truly
life-changing experience.
Daniel Silverman, Peabody
Israelis live in the constant state of the unknown, they don’t know where the next terrorist attack
will happen or even what will happen with their economy. Despite this and all their worries, they
still attempt to live their lives with a sense of normalcy. Unlike many of their Arab neighbors,
they continue to cherish every life no matter what the situation is. Their optimism and
perseverance for peace is admirable and this truly inspires me. If I had not gone on the Y2I 2014
trip, I would never have realized how important it is to walk a mile in somebody else’s shoes.
Jared Sinewitz, Peabody
After experiencing Israel during a period of war, I find myself with a newfound pride for my
identity, religion, and home. The day I returned, I went to a friend’s birthday dinner and found
myself in a discussion about the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Relatively quickly my voice grew
louder and tone more serious as I felt the need to defend and protect my home. That was the
moment everything began sinking in. The negative propaganda against Israel really portrays it as
a killer, and for anyone who does not research beyond that, that’s the image they are left with. I
was not willing to let my friends carry on believing that image of my home. I needed to inform
them of the truth, not for Israel’s sake, but for my own. I take pride in this nation; she is my
home.
Ali Sloan, Swampscott
Y2I, and my following stay, drastically changed what Israel means to me. All of the great
experiences, the friendships made, and the things learned gave me a new perspective on our
second home. When we first stepped off the plane we were told “Welcome home”, and by the
end of the first day, we knew why. As far away as we were from Massachusetts, it didn’t feel
foreign. Almost everyone around you is Jewish, making you feel as if you belong there.
Aaron Smart, Salem
I didn’t think I was going to be able to, but I can truthfully say that my trip to Israel with Y2I
2014 changed the way I look at the State, as well as changing the way I look at the religion of
Judaism. Y2I showed me that Jewish people, in America and in Israel, are very similar to each
other. It also showed me that being Jewish is an easy way to meet new people and make new
friends. Y2I has showed me that Israel is an amazing place rich in history and culture, full of
amazing places and amazing people. It showed me that America’s problems are so insignificant
compared to what the small state/country of Israel has to face every day, so we should appreciate
our safety, protection, and freedom. Israel works so much harder for all of that, and still manages
to be a beautiful and relatively safe place to live, and visit. That is why I cannot wait to go back.
Leo Smart, Salem
Despite the program changing in regards to the fighting with Hamas in Gaza, this unique trip still
made my love for Israel grow. Such a little country has such immense love for its people, and
Y2I helped open my eyes to that. Just being surrounded by other Jews like myself made me feel
more connected to the land and people. My Judaism is a bigger part of me now that I have visited
Israel. When I was at my Jewish camp two summers ago, we prayed to and for the State of Israel.
Before visiting the country, I never understood why that is so important and why that place is so
important to Jews. Although after my visit, I understand greatly why people would pray to and
for this land. It is our land and it always welcomes us back home; it won’t turn anyone away. I
believe it is essential that the fight for the State of Israel never ends because I myself can’t
explain the pride I felt just from being there.
Sharon Sokolovskaya, Swampscott
The greatest part about Y2I is its empowerment on my Jewish identity. Spending a week with a
hundred Jewish teens has really helped me discover my place in the community. The many guest
speakers we heard informed and moved me regarding my role as a Jewish youth. In terms of
culture, visiting Israel has opened my eyes to lifestyles that are different from mine, yet all share
the same goals. The small country’s strength and resilience was inspiring. To me, being in Israel
during this difficult time evoked a more sincere form of compassion and appreciation. My
support is with Israel now more than ever, which strengthens my attachment to both Israel and
Judaism.
Janna Sokolow, Lynnfield
Although I had no way of predicting the turmoil that the country would be enveloped in upon my
arrival, I would be able, once returning back home, to understand that I did, in fact, feel more
Jewish than I ever had before. I became more acquainted with Israel, the Holy Land, and I
discovered my peers and I had become more devoted and more inclined to defend a country that
is so misunderstood by so much of the world. I didn’t see nearly all that I wanted to see on my
trip, but I became a part of a Jewish community, learned more about the Jewish people and the
state of Israel, and realized what was really important about receiving such a gift from such an
amazing group of people.
Avery St. Sauveur, Manchester
The Y2I trip has truly given me the opportunity to connect Judaism and Israel, along with her
struggles both currently and throughout history. Through this connection, I have built up pride
for my religion and a strong sense of nationalism for Israel. My Jewish identity has been
strengthened thanks to the Y2I trip, which has had a large impact on my life. I have a much
deeper understanding of my Jewish identity and why I should be proud to be Jewish.
Jeff Stern, Marblehead
From the moment of arrival into Israel, our holy land, I immediately felt welcomed. Not only
were we welcomed “home” from strangers coming up to us in the airport, but also the country
and setting itself. Though we had already been in Israel for hours now, this was the first time we
saw Israel for what it truly is: our beautiful, incredible home away from home.
Zoe Stock, Wenham
Having lived and breathed Israel for a little over a week has me head over heels for this little yet
unbelievably strong country. The sites, the citizens, and the company came together to paint a
beautiful mural that I will hang forever in my heart until the day I die. I am not a religious man
but I am a Jewish man and forever will be my own man no matter what anyone tells me. This
small journey opened my eyes to the importance of staying true to one’s Jewish roots and to keep
those roots strong and sturdy.
Steven Stoianov, Swampscott
Y2I gave me an opportunity that I would almost never get the chance to do. One of the great
things Israel did for me while I was staying there was that it informed me and made me realize
much more how much Israel is struggling right now with foreign affairs. Before entering Israel I
didn’t really grasp the idea of the Gaza Strip and Palestine. But now if someone asks me about
what is going on with Israel I can inform them with a good answer. Many people in the USA
don’t really know what is actually going on, and I feel that it is part of my responsibility to let
them know the truth. Being able to inform others on the real struggles of Israel and not the fake
rumors about Israel is extremely important to me and is something that Y2I gave me the ability
to understand better.
Justin Sudenfield, Peabody
I am honored to have met the Bau sisters and given the opportunity to hear their family’s story
first hand. I left that talk feeling proud to be Jewish. Their story and the strength and courage of
all Jews who suffered during the Holocaust have filled me with a sense of obligation to carry on
their legacy. We are a strong and resilient people who continue to survive and thrive despite
any obstacle.
Daniel Szottfried, Marblehead
There is no other place in the world where I have been where I feel safe, proud and overwhelmed
with comfort. I am filled with pride when I think of all of the accomplishments of Israel agriculturally, educationally and technologically. Their people are incredible. Being with other
Jews in Israel made me feel happy. I now feel a responsibility to stay connected to our Jewish
faith. We should be proud to be Jewish, and I was never more proud than when I was in Israel.
Joshua Tassinari, Marblehead
When Momo first spoke to us, something really hit me deep. I began to understand that there
aren't many Jews out there that are proud of their religion and that the growth of Jewish people
relies on us, the youth. I started to feel special and important knowing this. Y2I didn't just
enhance my identity, but it also gave me a wake-up call about the reality of Jewish people that
get married and become part of a different religion.
Olivia Tyler, Manchester
One of the most inspiring moments on the trip for me was when I realized that all of the teens on
this trip share a common link of Judaism. I knew why everyone had come on the trip, but as I
met new people I felt closer to them because of this one profound bond.
Madison Van Dam, Swampscott
I always knew being Jewish was important to my family, but after visiting the homeland, I
realize just how serious it is being Jewish and keeping the Jewish faith alive. My trip to Israel
has strengthened my relationship with Judaism. I realized that no matter how religious or nonreligious kids were, Israel brought us all together. We were all accepted for being Jewish, a thing
that in many places would not be accepted. No matter where you are in the world, the Jewish
people and Judaism are there for you. I now understand why so many people call Israel home,
because it is our home. It is home for the Jewish people.
Alexandra Vogel, Swampscott
After visiting the holy land, my view of Israel's geography and culture has significantly changed.
Our experience in the North gave us a taste of Israel that most people do not get. I would like to
thank everybody involved in the Y2I program, as well as all my new friends, for making the
2014 Israel trip one to remember.
Ben Welling, Salem
Since returning from Israel, I have never been prouder to be Jewish. I have become an ardent
defender against detractors and have been reading up on the history of Israel and my people.
Following this experience I had a new appreciation for the beauty that is Israel. Our people have
been history’s scapegoats and a constant target of persecution. That is why Israel is so important.
It is a place for the Jewish people to call home. Any Jew who feels threatened has a place to go.
Coming from a Catholic school, it was wonderful to finally make Jewish friends. To be
surrounded by fellow Jews is a very strange but comforting feeling.
Justin Winschel, Peabody
Before we arrived in Israel I did not think too much about it other than I cannot wait to go to a
foreign country. When we landed and were greeted by a welcome home I started to think maybe
this isn’t just a vacation, maybe this is more special. I started to realize that even though Israel
was such a young country, it was flourishing, despite being surrounded by other countries that
hate the Israelis. After Momo came to speak to us about marrying Jewish and what it means to be
Jewish, I realized that it’s not just your religion, but that all the Jewish people are part of a family
and we need to stick together and help each other. Israel is the Jewish people’s home and it is
important to realize that and help keep it a safe place.
Jacob Woodrow, Marblehead
Y to I gave me a positive connection with Israel because of the friends I made, the fun I had and
the state that Israel was in while we were there. When I think of Israel, I think of my fun trip,
which makes me love the state of Israel. We made a connection with Israel and with each other
that will last a lifetime.
Tedd York, Marblehead
From the minute I stepped foot in Israel until I left and still now, I know that Israel will always
be my home. Israel will always be a part of me, and I will always be a part of Israel. That I know
for sure will never change.
Julie Zabar, Swampscott
I started talking to the other people on the trip. It changed what I thought would be a boring tour
into an exciting adventure. This trip was full of surprises and unexpected twists.
Kirill Zavyalov, Salem
My trip to Israel with Y2I taught me many things about Israel and being Jewish. The first thing
that struck me about Israel was how comfortable and at home I felt. In the airport right after we
arrived, people were telling us, “Welcome home”. This sounded strange to me because I don't
live in Israel—I had never even been there, but when I thought about it, I realized that being
Jewish makes Israel my home.
Matthew Zieff, Beverly