On Oct. 29, I was quoted in a Daily Collegian article about Birthright Israel as saying, "Though it was a great opportunity, at times like these, you don't want to be a martyr."

I may have misled the reporter with my wording. And I probably didn't reiterate some of the following points during my interview, either, which would have made it more difficult for the reporter to decipher my "message."

Anyway, I want to emphasize that I had a great Birthright Israel experience. So great, in fact, that I would go again this December if I were allowed to do so. Yes, I'm not afraid -- especially knowing that 30,000 students have participated in the program with no incidents. And the security measures described in the article seem quite extensive.

But what I meant was that for students who are concerned, they shouldn't feel obligated to go just to show support for Israel in troubled times.

It is in this way that they should not be "martyrs." This program isn't a solidarity mission. Birthright Israel serves to give Jewish college students who might otherwise not care a greater appreciation for the state of Israel. In other words, don't go because you feel like you should try to help the Israeli tourism industry.

Go because you want to experience Israel. I apologize for any confusion from my previous quote.