When I visited the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., I never could have imagined that the experience would lead me halfway across the world to meet a Holocaust survivor in her own home.
It was there, in the spring of 2025, that my interest in Israel took on a much deeper meaning. What began as learning about history quickly became a desire to better understand the people, culture, and realities of the country today.
Through that fellowship, I learned about Caravan for Democracy Jewish National Fund-USA's ten-day educational trip that brings student leaders beyond the Jewish faith to Israel. As a senior at a Catholic university in Minnesota, this was an especially unique opportunity. Few students have the chance to experience Israel through such an immersive lens, and I was grateful to engage with the country, its people, and its complexities in a way that broadened both my perspective and understanding.
Throughout our time there, we met with political and religious leaders, journalists, entrepreneurs, and community members from multiple backgrounds. The experience gave me an understanding of Israel that cannot be gained through headlines or social media. It challenged me to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, and see the incredible complexity and humanity that exists throughout the country.
When I reflect on the trip, two experiences immediately come to mind.
The first was visiting the site of the Nova Music Festival massacre. Standing where hundreds of young people, some my own age, had gathered to celebrate life, music, and friendship before their lives were violently taken on October 7 was profoundly sobering. Seeing the memorials, walking the grounds, and hearing directly from a Nova survivor made the tragedy even more personal. But what impacted me most was her message. Despite experiencing unimaginable trauma, she chooses to live with love instead of hatred because she believes love is stronger. Her resilience, compassion, and hope are lessons I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
The second unforgettable moment was sharing Shabbat dinner in the home of Holocaust survivor Rena Quint. Listening as she recounted being separated from her family, surviving Bergen-Belsen, and rebuilding her life afterward was heartbreaking and inspiring all at once. Sitting around her table, surrounded by her family, traditions, and warmth, I felt the resilience of the Jewish people in a way no book or classroom could ever teach. I also had the privilege of speaking with her one-on-one, and it remains one of the most meaningful conversations I have ever had.
The relationships I built on this trip are just as meaningful to me as the places we visited. What began with ten days turned into lasting friendships that continue to enrich my life and broaden my perspective. I continue to stay in close contact with many of the incredible student leaders whom I met.
Since returning home, I have felt a responsibility to share what I witnessed, the stories of the people I met, the resilience I encountered, and the overwhelming humanity, hope, and love that I experienced throughout Israel. The trip did not give me all the answers, but it gave me the responsibility to continue learning, to speak thoughtfully, and to help others better understand the complexity and beauty of Israel through firsthand experience.
It is difficult to put into words how profoundly Caravan for Democracy shaped me. It is a transformative educational experience that changed the way I see the world. It challenged me intellectually, connected me with extraordinary people, and instilled in me a lifelong commitment to continue learning, asking questions, and engaging in thoughtful conversations about Israel and the Middle East. The impact of this fellowship continues to shape both my personal and professional life, and I know it will for many years to come.
