I got the chance to study abroad in Morocco, Africa, for almost two weeks over winter break, and it turned out to be one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. Not only did I meet incredible people and immerse myself in a vibrant new culture, but I also gained valuable insights into how businesses operate overseas. Traveling with nine other students, we encountered our fair share of challenges, like finding flights back to Houston, but we stuck together and shared many laughs along the way. Visiting multiple cities in Morocco allowed me to experience a variety of environments, each with its own unique atmosphere and way of doing business. But more than anything, I left with lasting memories and friendships, as I never expected that a short trip abroad would lead to such meaningful connections with people from different parts of the world. This trip truly gave me a broader perspective, both personally and educationally, and deepened my understanding of global business dynamics.
I got to visit a new country overseas with nine other students. We shared many laughs and struggles (like finding flights back to Houston); but overall we enjoyed each other’s company through seeing many cities in Morocco. I met two amazing girls that I now call some of my best friends. After being back they’ve visited me at work and we always go get coffee together! I never would have thought I would find such great friends from being abroad for only two weeks but I am happy that I have.
I also got the chance to immerse myself in a new culture and experience how they live. When we first arrived we got to go to a host family’s house and ate amazing meals there. That was when I really got to have a taste of what life was like and how their customs in meals differed from ours. I learned they just dig in all at once, normally with their hands, and they prefer to eat heavier meals in the earlier hours of the day.
When walking around the different cities I could tell certain things shifted. For example, in Rabat and Marrakech, there were less hustlers and they were more likely to wait for you to walk up to their store. Whereas in Chefchaouen or Fes they wanted to bring you into the store or get your attention from afar. I loved seeing all the different art that was made, I even bought a painting in Chefchaouen.
We went to quite a few businesses while we were there. The one that I loved the most was the motor vehicle facicily. They made certain parts for large companies like Ford or Porsche. Not only was it interesting to hear him explain how they will commission one part to be made but that we actually got to walk around and see the warehouse in action after hearing about the company. Another place we got to see was a business that helped women learn techniques to work or just for home. I guess I hadn’t taken into consideration that some older women still hadn’t learned skills for jobs if they had always done the housework. It was very interesting to see everything they were taught like reading and writing to sewing and knitting. I enjoyed being able to see all the businesses, but those two definitely stood out the most to me.
My time studying abroad in Morocco was a transformative experience, both personally and educationally. I not only had the opportunity to explore a diverse culture but also gained valuable insights into how businesses operate in a different part of the world. From the quick paced moments in Rabat to the more laid-back atmosphere of Chefchaouen, I learned how local customs and business practices vary across regions. The chance to visit businesses, such as the motor vehicle facility and the empowerment program for women, opened my eyes to the innovative ways companies are adapting to local needs and global demands.
Beyond the professional learning, the friendships I formed during this trip were one of the most unexpected but rewarding outcomes. What started as a short two-week adventure led to lasting connections that I will continue to cherish in my life. This trip has deepened my appreciation for global cultures and business practices and has inspired me to explore how I can contribute to a more interconnected and diverse world in my future career.