Lisa Heller, 28, Hollywood, FL
Florida State University, BS in Communication Studies
Track: WUJS Jerusalem Learning Jerusalem Learning
What were you doing before you came to Israel?
Before I came on WUJS, I was working in sales at a technology company in South Florida. I was also working with Birthright Israel NEXT as a fellow, planning events for Jewish 20-somethings in Miami/Ft. Lauderdale/Palm Beach. Birthright Israel NEXT gave me the opportunity to staff a Birthright Israel trip in March, and I didn't want to leave Israel. In July, when my nephew was born, I was filling in for my sister-in-law at her job in a Forensic Accounting Firm, where I was the office manager.
How did you hear about this WUJS Israel program?
I saw WUJS in the MASA guide, and I spoke with an alumni. It wasn't until I saw that WUJS was a Young Judaea program that I became truly interested. I grew up in YJ going to Camp Judaea and I didn't have a chance to go on Year Course, something I always regretted.. Find out more @ Masa: WUJS Jerusalem Learning
What are your goals while on this program?
I hope that I will learn to speak Hebrew, and also get a sense of personal growth so that I know what I want when I go back to the United States.
Have you had any difficulty settling in?
I have gotten lost every time I step outside of the apartment alone. Also I can't figure out the bus system for the life of me, so I take a taxi everywhere I go.
Have you purchased a wrong item because of the language barrier?
I keep buying different peanut butters hoping to find the best one. So far I haven't found it yet I have 4 jars of peanut butter in the kitchen. I am just going to have my Mom send me some from the States.
What did your friends say when you told them your plan to come to Israel?
All of my friends were jealous because they have to wake up and go to work every morning.
