August 2018

Megan Braat

"This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to work with our service project the Painted Turtle Camp. While I was only there for a short period of time, the experience made an immense impact on my life today. The week that I worked was the Skeletal Dysplasia week. Skeletal Dysplasia is genetic condition where parts of the skeleton are not formed properly. With varying degrees of severity, it can be a very painful condition. The children that I had the privilege of meeting, however, showed no signs of self pity or surrender. Their energy and enthusiasm were truly inspiring. The night before the campers arrived, one of the men that runs the camp told us, 'This is the one week where these children can be their true selves. Nobody stares at them; nobody makes fun of them. This is the happiest week of their lives; this is their Disney World.' I was honored to be apart of making some of these kids’ greatest memories."

Amanda mei

Over the summer, Amanda visited Toronto, Ontario to visit family and go sightseeing at the beautiful botanical gardens and explore the lively downtown area that is Nathan Philips Square. It has been one of her favorite family trips so far especially since the food there was so delicious! ​

Hiking up the Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park at 4 in the morning to watch the first sunrise in America was one of the most breathtaking experiences for Amanda. There were hundreds of people gathered around the highest point to witness the beautiful moment. She had a lot of fun being immersed in nature at its finest in Bar Harbor, Maine this summer!
There’s also nothing better than going to Summer Jam with your DZ twin! Erika and Amanda had an amazing time seeing Post Malone perform!

Hannah Pakech

Hannah traveled with her family to Athens, Mykonos’s and Santorini, Greece. She visited many archeological and cultural sites and ruins. She also enjoyed beautiful beaches and towns on the islands! Hannah climbed an active volcano Santorini, watched the sunset in Oui from a wooden sailboat and relaxed on a black sand beach. Hannah tasted delicious Greek foods, her favorites being gyros and Mythos.

Sam Farhi

"My Birthright Trip to Israel was my first time ever out of the country and I couldn't have asked for a better first. I always heard stories about how it's the best time of your life, but it’s really true. I didn't just new meet people, I became a part of a culture and a part of family with friendships that will last a lifetime and memories i’ll hold in my heart forever. It was truly inspiring to learn more about my culture and see what the homeland is all about. Not to mention the food is amazing! It is a place I think everyone should visit, Jewish or not."

vinaya rajahraman

Vinaya traveled to Dubai and India this summer with her family! She got to pick the country this year and decided on Dubai, hoping for an utterly novel experience. Vinaya was not disappointed and says was presented many opportunities to engage in local culture. Her favorite experience was the desert safari and ATVing in the sand dunes of Dubai. The only thing she does not miss is the 118 degree days. . . definitely go in the winter!