The intensity of a ten- to twelve-day trip in Israel, what RII calls a Mini-mester, during a school vacation, opens up many educational possibilities. Being inIsrael around the clock for over a week can provide the equivalent of a semester of class hours offered at supplementary middle- or high schools. In the best of Ramah tradition,Israel trips are built to achieve a balance of intellectual, religious, social, emotional and physical experiences. Students are exposed to a carefully chosen combination of sites and activities, creating a trip that is designed specifically for junior high or high school students. RII wants the students to look back on their time inIsrael as one of emotional, intellectual and religious growth and to feel a sense of pride in meeting the physical challenges presented to them. Our ultimate goal is that the trip will offer a positive connection with their Judaism and whet their appetites for continued Jewish education.