Heritage Retreats picked up where my birthright experience left off. After returning from Israel, I wanted to continue my Jewish growth, but was unsure what course to take. The program gave me a solid understanding of how to make Jewish learning meaningful in my everyday life.

Like many Jews living in New York city, I oftentimes found myself at Shabbat dinners, in synagogues and at Jewish social gatherings. Moreshet Learning Retreats really opened my eyes to the larger world of Judaism.

I am an eagle boy scout and have spent a lot of time hiking in the wilderness, having true adventures in nature. Heritage Retreats is a spiritual adventure of vast proportions that you not only enjoy, but also take away concepts that will help you live a happy and fulfilling life.

You can't really get this studying from a book - you've got to experience it.

People asked me, "you're going to study Torah in the woods with a bunch of girls for a week?" In retrospect this created an open learning environment in which we were able to ask questions which we would not have voiced otherwise. The other women came from all types of backgrounds, they were all cool, interesting, and eager to learn. Being part of a group made up of so many different perspectives was enriching.

I forged several great friendships with like-minded young Jewish professionals from around the country, with whom I still keep in touch. The retreat also provided a rare opportunity to devote my energies to thinking about my place in life and my spirituality. Being out in nature provides a wonderful backdrop for this kind of self-exploration and growth.