Muss Blog

Student stories, staff perspectives, and study-abroad tips from the Muss community.

Niko Deyerin - April Mini-Mester 2025 | June 13, 2025

Strength & Resilience in Israel

We started this week in Tel Aviv with a graffiti tour. As we walked through the colorful streets and painted walls, our teacher Reuven explained that many artists use graffiti to express political messages and personal stories. The art was a

Abigail Inglis - April Mini-Mester 2025 | June 5, 2025

Exploring Israel’s Heart and Soul

This week, our group headed to beautiful Tel Aviv for a walking tour of Neve Tzedek. We learned about how secular Zionism evolved in Tel Aviv. It was interesting to see how, in a very Jewish way, two very different sides of Zionism—the secular

Reuven Arye - Muss Educator | June 5, 2025

Shavuot in Jerusalem

We began this week with an unforgettable Jerusalem experience, celebrating the holiday of Shavuot in the heart of the city. As is custom in many Jewish communities—and especially in Jerusalem—we stayed up all night learning Torah and soaking in the

Charlie Friedman - April Mini-Mester 2025 | May 29, 2025

Shabbat to Shared Dreams

Following Yam L’Yam last week, we began with a well-deserved Shabbat in Beit Shemesh, joining our madrich, Nitzan’s, community. Each of us stayed with different Orthodox families and got to experience a full, authentic Shabbat. Personally, my

Reuven Arye - Muss Educator | May 29, 2025

A Powerful Week of Learning in Israel

This week has been full of powerful learning, deep reflection, and inspiring adventures.

Eliana Brizitski Anderson - April Mini-Mester 2025 | May 23, 2025

An Inner Strength

Ending last week and starting this week has been quite the journey. We left campus in Hod HaSharon on Friday afternoon. Once we arrived in Tel Aviv, we explored the pier before returning to the hotel, dressing up, and celebrating Shabbat together.

Reuven Arye - Muss Educator | May 22, 2025

April Mini-Mester on Yam L'Yam

We are writing to you from high in the Galilee Mountains after an amazing week together!

Natalie Farber - Spring Semester 2025 | May 22, 2025

Courage and Passion

This semester has truly been a life-changing experience—one that I know will stay with me in many aspects of my future. The friendships I’ve made, the independence I’ve gained, and everything I’ve learned will always be a part of me.

Alexander Muss High School in Israel | May 22, 2025

This Week: Yam L'Yam

This week was one of the most memorable and physically challenging experiences of the program – the long-awaited Yam L’Yam hike, crossing the country from the Mediterranean Sea to the Sea of Galilee.

Leah Smith – April Mini-Mester 2025 | May 15, 2025

A Day in the South

This week, we spent a day traveling through the south, visiting several places connected to the events of October 7th. It was challenging, emotional, and something we’re all still processing.

Talya Steinberg - Spring Semester 2025 | May 15, 2025

Tiyulim, Tel Aviv, and a Touch of Sun

This week started off strong—literally—with Gadna (army training). Normally a four-day course, it was condensed into just seven hours to fit our packed schedule. Even though some people stayed back to study for their AP tests (and it took me 20

Brady Jenness - April Mini-Mester 2025 | May 8, 2025

Dawn at Masada

I've always had a personal quarrel with Masada—a tension between my nocturnal nature and the site's demand for early risers who alone can witness its true splendor. My previous visits generated beautiful photographs that later inspired wistful