Hi! My name is Priya Shah, and I am currently a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh studying Accounting and Business Information Systems. I also intend to gain the Public Accounting certificate and Foundations of AI in Business. Hoping to get my CPA after graduation. I’m originally from South Georgia, but moved to central Jersey in my sophomore year of high school. I am eager to learn about the crossroads of technology and accounting so I can solve problems and embrace technological change. On campus, I am involved as a general member of the Accounting Association. I love the hands-on experience I have gained by meeting different firms and networking with professionals. Along with that, I have recently gained a leadership position as the Business Manager for the Steel City Raas Dance Team. I am excited to grow my leadership skills and strengthen my connections with people on the team, and learn about how finances work to run a club.

With that said, I am ecstatic about my upcoming trip to Morocco in the Plus3 Program because it combines so many of my passions: exploring new places, learning about different cultures, and gaining insight into innovation around the world. Traveling has always been meaningful to me because it allows me to step outside of my usual environment and better understand how people in other countries live, work, and solve problems. What especially interests me about this trip is its focus on technology and entrepreneurship, particularly the experiences of women entrepreneurs. I am eager to learn how technology functions in a different country, how businesses adapt to local and global challenges, and how women are building and growing successful ventures within Morocco’s evolving economy. This experience would give me the chance to expand my perspective, connect with inspiring individuals, and deepen my understanding of how entrepreneurship and innovation can create opportunities across cultures. Morocco also has such a unique location where it embraces the customs and functions of its surrounding entities, like Europe.

I am looking forward to making new connections with people from different backgrounds, learning from their experiences, and building relationships that can expand my global perspective. I believe stepping into a new environment showcases challenges like having to adapt, communicate, and navigate unfamiliar situations, which I am eager to discover through this experience. The knowledge, perspectives, and skills I gain from this trip will not only help me develop personally but also help me approach future professional opportunities!

I am so excited to embark on this journey and can’t wait for the amazing experience ahead!