My time on Aardvark Israel is exactly why I choose a gap year. While on Aardvark, I have not only gained real work experience with my internship but also gained independence and lifelong friendships. Aardvark gives us the ability to learn about Israel and form deep connections with the land. I have gained knowledge and perspective through trips and classes and applied it to my everyday life in Tel Aviv. Aardvark’s program sets itself apart by allowing us to be fully integrated into Israeli society and forces us to grow as adults with strong support from the madrichim. Since being in Tel Aviv this semester, I have learned how to navigate a city, budget, and time management and can not wait to take these skills to Jerusalem and future endeavors. Overall, joining aardvark has been everything I want and more.