Now that my time in Morocco is over, I can’t help but look back on it fondly. Yes, we did the site visits, saw amazing companies, walked through the souks, tried incredible food, and learned about entrepreneurship, culture, and business. But when I think about the photo that best represents my time here, it is not a picture from a company visit or a famous landmark. It is a photo of me playing on the beach with my friends and host brother, with the sunset in the background.
To me, that photo captures Morocco better than anything else could. I remember the sound of the waves hitting the shore, the last rays of the sun turning the sea a golden orange, my host brother running with us trying to get to the ball, and the smell of the ocean mixed with the cafés nearby. Everything about that moment felt simple, but also perfect. It was not planned or part of an itinerary. It was just us spending time together, laughing, running around, and enjoying where we were. I am not the most sporty person, but getting out there and playing anyway was some of the best fun I had on the trip. That photo represents the people, the connection, and the feeling of being fully present in Morocco.
Personally, I learned that I can adapt almost anywhere. Coming here meant figuring out basic things all over again, like finding food and water, especially as a vegetarian, managing my time, getting around, communicating across a language barrier, and making friends out of vague connections. At first, some of that felt intimidating, but every time something was thrown at me, I found a way through it. Whether it was bargaining in the Medina, learning a few phrases in Darija, getting comfortable with my host family, or navigating a completely new environment, I adapted and came out better for it. This trip showed me that I am more capable than I sometimes give myself credit for.
Professionally, I learned how important culture and context are in any setting. Throughout the trip, we visited organizations that supported entrepreneurs, artisans, women business owners, students, and startups. Each one operated within Morocco’s unique social, political, and economic environment. That made me realize that business is never just business. It is shaped by history, culture, access, resources, and the people involved. There were also moments where I realized how important it is to understand the setting before entering a professional space. At one site visit, I was asked a question that felt very offensive without the right cultural context, and it threw me off for the rest of the visit. While I was able to move past it, it made me realize that being prepared does not just mean knowing the company. It also means understanding the culture you are stepping into.
Academically, this trip pushed me to think more deeply and stand by what I believe. One of the strongest examples of that was during our discussion about AI. The presenter talked at length about AI’s benefits, and while he made some good points, I did not fully agree with everything he said, especially when he discussed bringing AI into creative spaces. I ended up debating him because I believe creativity should still be rooted in human effort, emotion, and experience. AI can be a powerful tool, and I use it myself, but I do not think it should replace the human side of creating. That conversation made me realize that learning is not just about listening and accepting information. Sometimes it means questioning, pushing back, and respectfully defending your beliefs.
Overall, Morocco has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I came here wanting to explore a new place, learn about entrepreneurship, and step outside my comfort zone. I am leaving with a deeper understanding of myself, the world, and the kind of person I want to become. I will remember the companies, the lectures, the souks, the food, and the cities, but more than anything, I will remember moments like that sunset on the beach. That photo represents the heart of the trip for me: connection, growth, joy, and people. For years to come, I know I will look back on Morocco fondly.