"The SFF trip opened my eyes to the subtleties and complexities of Israeli society. Before the SFF trip, I understood Israel on a very cerebral, superficial level, and my connection to it had more to do with its historical significance to the Jewish people than with anything else. But now Israel has become a living, breathing place for me, a place that, as an embodiment of humanity, is beautiful and flawed at the same time. Israel is real to me in a way it never was. Before, Israel was just a place that mattered. But now, it has become a place that I love."—Ruvym Gilman
"Traveling in Israel with SFF was intense, challenging, thought-provoking and immensely rewarding. We were exposed to multiple sectors of Israeli society, giving us insights into Israel that few trips can offer. It was a great group with thoughtful, smart educators, and I returned with renewed energy and interest in all things Israel and Jewish. I absolutely loved it." --Sara Hahn
"The Shapiro Family Fellowship has been an amazing experience. I learned so much more than I ever imagined I would - and not only about Israel and Judaism, but also about myself. It is an incredibly enriching program in so many ways."—Wendy Paler
"The shapiro family fellowship forced me to step outside my comfort zone, learn to empathize with thoughts dissimilar to my own and initiated a self exploration into an inner journey for knowledge and answers to my ever changing jewish identity...all while eating, laughing, and sharing memories with new friends that will last a life time."—Noah Morgenstern
