This summer was undeniably the most unique summer experience I have ever had. I was given the opportunity to spend my three months off in Israel, or as I like to call it, The Land of Milk and Honey.
I participated in a student internship program called Onward Israel Boston, in which I lived in Jerusalem with other students and partook in an internship in my desired field. Not only did I have a ton of fun, but created undoubtedly lifelong friendships and returned home with a rewarding experience that I will never forget.
Not only did I learn a lot about Israeli culture, but I gained new and different cultural perspectives. While some of my takeaways were unique to Israel, I do believe that you can get as much out of an abroad excursion in any foreign country. Below you’ll find a list of the best ways to get a rewarding experience out of a trip abroad!
1. Stray away from tourist attractions, and try hitting up local spots instead
Don’t get me wrong, tourist hotspots are hotspots for a reason, and a getting a dose of them can be really fun. However, if you want to feel more integrated into the culture, one of the best ways to do that is by exploring places that local residents might visit instead. These places are usually a lot more authentic to the particular culture of that county. If you’re looking to learn more deeply about the culture, this is a great way to do it. Another bonus: it’s usually a lot cheaper! Personally, my friends and I made an effort to explore the local food scene, and we’re so glad that we did.
2. Get to know the locals
The best way to gain a deeper understanding of a different culture is to interact with those native to that culture. Thinking from the perspective of others is so important when formulating your own opinions. I personally had the goal of learning about Israeli culture both socially and professionally. Socially, I talked to different Israelis around my own age, which gave me a better idea of what it’s like to be a young adult in Israel. Professionally, I made sure to set up meetings with my boss at my internship where we talked about his career in Israel. Whichever country you visit, there are always ways to connect with groups that belong to that culture, and I highly suggest that you do!
3. Identify what you wish to learn
I started this trip with a clear idea of what it was exactly and what I wanted to gain while I was there. You can easily become overwhelmed by all of the differences around you, and it can be difficult to process. By focusing on a few select topics you wish to learn about beforehand, you will give yourself a clear direction in which to be most attentive.
4. Explore
One of the most rewarding parts of my abroad experience was the opportunity I had to explore outside of the general boundaries of where I was living. We took several weekend and day trips to other cities around the country. In a small country like Israel, it’s fairly easy to travel to all the different surrounding areas, as it is between most European countries. I suggest you take advantage of the opportunity if you have it. The more you explore, the broader your experience will be!
5. Keep an open mind
Generally, multiple differences within cultures bring judgment. It would have been so easy for me to criticize the Israeli culture of never waiting in lines, or shouting over one another while buying goods at the market. On the other hand, the point of this trip was to experience a different culture, and this comes with keeping a positive outlook on those differences. This will not only help you appreciate the culture for what it is but is sure to positively alter your overall attitude throughout your trip.