Harold Hershberg, 25, New Orleans, LA
Kennesaw State University, Political Science-Alternative Dispute Resolution
Track: Internships Tel Aviv
Internship: Heskia Hacmun Law Office Heskia - Hacmun Law Firm Tel-Aviv Israel
Masa: Building Future Leaders, by Harold Hershberg
Video Profile: Harold Profile.mov
Heskia Hacmun Law Firm provides commercial legal services, focusing on corporate, banking, litigation, international transactions, Israeli Tax Law, Inheritance law and Patents & Trademarks. Heskia - Hacmun Law Firm is a member of the Israel- American chambers of commerce. This internship placement is giving Harold the opportunity to explore law while becoming integrated into Heskia Hacmun's international network.
How did you hear about this WUJS Israel program?
I first heard of WUJS from Amy Gross during my Young Judea Birthright trip, August 2008. Young Judaea: WUJS Post-Graduate
What responsibilities will you have during this internship?
I am very happy to be working at the Heskia Hacmun law firm. So far, I have visited several of the courts of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, as well as sat-in on an international hearing. My supervisors could not be more supportive and the open door policy of the law partners makes this experience very valuable regarding my own personal ambitions in the field of law. I work with other interns who are from Israel as well as other parts of the world, which a great resource for learning about the domestic and international legal structure of the country.
In sum, Israel is an interesting place to learn about law because; the legal make-up of the country is a mixture of ancient Turkish law, civil code law, and common law. Also, the Israeli Court is relatively a new system, so case research is done by comparing rulings from other Western courts; this research helps you grow your case knowledge about cases around the world.
What are your goals for this internship program?
I hope to have an in-depth understanding of the language and culture of Israel; I would like my experience of living and working in Tel Aviv to add to both in my personal and professional life.
Have you had any difficulties settling in?
Instead of buying Aloe Vera for my sunburn, I bought shampoo or something...I am still confused about the whole transaction. One day I was working late and missed the bus for my Hebrew class, so with the help of a few nice people on the bus I was able to find my class after a lot of walking.
What did your friends say when you told them your plan to come to Israel?
My friends were intrigued and supportive; though, I am the first of my group of friends to undertake such an experience I feel that I have a good base of support from my friends, and family.
