Spring Break 2012!
I imagine my spring break experience is very different from that of most of my friends. While they enjoyed the beaches of Mexico and Miami, I spent my time going in and out of offices. I exchanged bathing suits for business casual, a tan for knowledge. You may be asking yourself why a senior like me chose to spend her last spring break on an educational trip, traveling with her teacher and other students two to three years younger. Let me tell you.
Although not my first time in Israel (I?ve been with Taglit as well as my family), I?m experiencing it like I never have before. On my other trips, I?ve prayed at the Wall in Jerusalem, visited a winery in the Golan Heights, climbed Masada, floated in the Dead Sea, enjoyed the nightlife of Tel Aviv, and relaxed on the beaches of Eilat. I could keep going, but the list is exhaustive. I knew about Israeli culture as well as the the geopolitical issues that surround the country, but until I took this course, I was unfamiliar with the innovative and entrepreneurial side of Israel, the side they neglected to show on my previous visits.
Did you know that aside from the United States and China, Israel has the highest number of publicly traded companies on the various exchanges in New York? That close to 300 foreign companies have research and development centers in Israel? That the number of ?Israeli start ups per year are on par with that of all of Europe? I didn?t, at least not until I began this course in January 2012. To benefit both Israel and the United States, I believe that more people need to be aware of all of the unbelievable innovations that are currently occurring in Israel. You can bet that I will be sharing my experience with my friends, family, teachers, employer, and pretty much anyone else who is willing to listen.
This class and this trip to Israel have influenced my life for the better. My understanding of Israel and its economy have grown exponentially. My own career goals have become more defined. In one week, I?ve met some of the most amazing, inspiring, brightest people I have ever met. Do I regret my spring break decision? Not at all. I only wish that I had read Start Up Nation by Saul Singer and Dan Senor two and a half years ago when my parents had asked me to, that I had taken this course one or two years earlier.
Have I and the rest of my class convinced you of how amazing this country is and how vital an understanding of all that is occurring in Israel is. If so, spread the word. Read Start Up Nation. Visit Israel. Do what you can to understand, to make a difference.
?Allie ? College of Arts & Sciences ? Senior ? California
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Source: http://olinbizinisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/22/senior-year-spring-break-israel/
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