Justin Mayerchak, 22, Boca Raton
University of Miami, B.A. English and Creative Writing
Track: Internship Tel Aviv
Internship: Haaretz.com
Articles: How Holy are the Holidays?
Haaretz is an independent daily newspaper founded in Jerusalem in 1919 by a Zionist group of immigrants. It is now based in Tel-Aviv. Haaretz has four main sections; News and sports, business and finance, opinion and features, and arts and leisure. This paper has a broadly liberal outlook on both domestic and international affairs. It is also one of the largest and most popular newspapers and news sites in Israel. Haaretz Daily Newspaper Israel
How did you hear about this WUJS Israel program?
I found WUJS on the Masa website. Find out more @ Masa
What responsibilities will you have during this internship?
I am working for Haaretz.com. For two days of the week I monitor the talkbacks to articles: people respond to our authors through a series of messages under the article, creating a dialogue amongst our readers. I allow those that are appropriate. Also, I help organize/create the topics on the bottom of the webpage which contain recent article additions to the website. Also, I proofread a little. The other two days, I work on my own articles, usually discussing Jewish traditions, events or customs.
What are your goals for this internship program?
I wanted a complete switch of lifestyle; after my high school in Israel program, I fell in love with the fusion of European and Middle-Eastern culture. Also, I hope to experience Israel, whether it be the jewish customs and practices or the booming society that has blossomed out of the desert.
Have you had any difficulties settling in?
Yes, vinegar; other than that, it's been pretty good. There are many English speakers and I can read Hebrew which helps a little. The bus routes are easy to pick up after a couple of weeks.
What did your friends say when you told them your plan to come to Israel?
They were extremely jealous/excited; many people wanted to come/offered to just sneak in my luggage.
