Hi! My name is Blake Balthaser, and I am stoked to be headed to Morocco on the Plus3 program with the University of Pittsburgh. I am currently enrolled in the School of Business and the David C. Frederick Honors College, where I am planning on dual majoring in accounting and business analytics. Outside of the classroom, I stay involved through being a member of Delta Sigma Pi, University of Pittsburgh Accounting Association, Sports Business Association, and the Undergraduate Finance Club. When I’m not studying or in class, I’m typically watching sports with friends, going out for a walk, or playing soccer.

Plus3 Morocco stood out to me because of its focus on technology and entrepreneurship. I have always had a strong interest in the technological world, and I’m excited to see how a different culture utilizes and expands on the tools that shape our generation. Morocco’s growing innovative mindset also makes it the best place to explore how to turn ideas into solutions. I’m excited to see how entrepreneurship looks in an emerging market as well as how local companies approach obstacles compared to the U.S.

Personally, I plan to expand on myself through this journey, and challenge myself in a way a standard classroom cannot. Living with a host family for the first time is something that I look forward to the most, being an opportunity to learn about daily life, traditions, and community from a direct lens, and not that of an observer. While navigating an unfamiliar area will be challenging, I hope to build my own confidence and adaptability while gaining a deeper appreciation for Moroccan culture. Academically and professionally, I hope to enhance my ability to connect Pitt business classroom concepts into real world examples.

All in all, I can’t wait to arrive in Morocco next week, and I hope friends, family, and more can experience this journey with me through these blogs!

~ Blake Balthaser