While headlines warned of escalating tensions in the Middle East, a group of bold American teenagers boarded planes bound for Israel. Their destination? Jewish National Fund-USA’s Alexander Muss High School in Israel (Muss)—a premier college-prep, study-abroad experience unlike any other.
These high school students didn’t just arrive with passports and backpacks. They came with a thirst for knowledge about their homeland and a desire to explore their own connection to it.
A Journey of the Heart
In a recent ILTV interview, two Muss students, Josh Gerson and Memphis Cortes, gave voice to a generation of young Jewish leaders refusing to let fear define them.
“I wasn’t worried about safety at all,” said Josh. “I fully trust the IDF and the Iron Dome. I love visiting Israel. It’s incredible to be in a place my ancestors prayed for—now I get to live it.”
Memphis echoed the sentiment. “I’ve been to Israel with my family, but I needed my own experience. Meeting other teens who share this passion—it’s powerful.”
At a time when uncertainty could have kept them home, Josh and Memphis chose connection. They chose Israel.
Seeing Resilience, Living Zionism
For Josh, this trip marked his sixth visit to Israel since October 7. That alone speaks volumes.
“What strikes me every time is the resilience of Israelis,” he reflected. “Just days before I arrived, people were in bomb shelters because of Iran. But life here doesn’t pause. Israel bounces back—full of energy, full of life.”
He shared a moment that captured the emotional duality of life in Israel: “We saw a woman sipping coffee in Jerusalem, with the number of days since October 7 pinned on her shirt. People carry the pain—but they also carry on.”
It’s this spirit—the balancing of memory with momentum—that shapes the Muss experience.
From History Books to Historic Sites
Muss doesn’t just teach Jewish history. It immerses students in it.
“I went to Jewish day school,” Josh said, “but it’s totally different to learn here. At Atlit [a British Mandate-era detention camp for Jewish refugees], we didn’t just read about Zionist pioneers—we stood where they stood.”
Josh added, “At Muss, you hear the stories, then visit the places. It adds a depth that no classroom can match.”
Friendship, Identity, and Forever Impact
Beyond the lessons, there are bonds.
“I came here alone,” said Memphis. “Now I have friendships that will last forever.”
And for both students, the trip has deepened more than just friendships.
“I've felt much more connected to Israel being here, especially after everything,” Memphis shared, “and even more connected to my Jewish identity and seeing how like Jews have always been able to push through... been very joyous about everything, even when things are tragic and even when things are dark.”
Josh added, “I think the mindset of anti-fragility and resilience has helped Jews throughout history get through so many tough times. And I'm confident after seeing it in Israel that this mindset is going to help us once again and we are going to be victorious.”
The Takeaway
In a world that often tests the Jewish and Zionist spirit, Muss proves that the next generation is rising—rooted in history, inspired by resilience, and proudly standing with Israel.
For more information, visit amhsi.org
