Postcards from Abroad sits down for a chat with Muhlenberg women's tennis junior Jessica Sommer, a biology major studying in Jerusalem, Israel, this semester.
What classes are you taking? Which class is your favorite?
Although I'm a biology major, I'm mostly taking courses to complete my Jewish studies minor here in Israel. I'm taking courses about music and culture in Israeli society, issues in Israeli society, Hebrew classes, bible criticism from the perspective of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. I am also taking a course about transitioning to a low carbon society, which involved a workshop in the Negev Desert.
Have you been able to travel at all yet?
So far, I've traveled pretty extensively around Israel, although there's a lot more that I'd like to see. I am also planning to visit Amsterdam and Copenhagen later in the semester.
How have you been training while abroad?
Yes! My campus has a really nice gym, and Jerusalem is best traveled on foot, so I've definitely stayed active.
What has been the overall hardest adjustment?
My hardest adjustment was definitely a bit of culture shock and not being able to speak Hebrew fluently, although my Hebrew is definitely improving as I study the language and the people.
What made you decide to study abroad?
I knew I wanted to study abroad to be able to immerse myself in a culture that is not my own. This is an opportunity I may not be able to take again.
What have you learned about yourself while studying abroad?
Being in a completely different culture, climate, political environment and, well, continent has definitely allowed me to become more independent and gain a lot of life experience. I learn something new about myself and others every day I'm here.
Any messages for your teammates back home?
I miss you guys so much!!! I can't wait to be home with you guys this spring season! Go Mules!
Previous "Postcards"
Declan Walkush, Cross Country and Track & Field (London, England)
Nicole Atkins, Softball (Seville, Spain)
Victoria Cabellos, Track & Field (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Ethan Grossman, Men's Lacrosse (Maastricht, Netherlands)
