What made you choose Morocco? How did you pick your program?
I've always been one to go off the beaten path and Morocco seemed like the perfect place to do that. It is such a unique country situated between Europe and the rest of Africa — I thought it would be an incredible opportunity to study there and I was right.
How were the classes there different from the classes here?
The classes were so different than VWU classes mostly due to the background of the professors. I had professors with unbelievable stories from living in Kenya to escaping revolutions in Bulgaria and Egypt. The professors became passionate educators because of these profoundly impactful experiences they faced throughout their lives and it was evident in their lessons.
What was your favorite place you visited during your time abroad?
While in Morocco I was fortunate enough to live an experience I have dreamed of since I was a little boy watching National Geographic: I explored the dunes of the Sahara. It was by far the coolest place I have ever been. Some friends and I rode camels to the top of a dune to watch the sunrise — it was epic.
What is your favorite word or phrase you picked up in the language?
My favorite word I learned while studying Arabic was Inshallah — which means god-willing, or if god allows it. I am not Muslim and I do not practice Islam, but this word carries a sort of appreciation and awareness with it that is not necessarily prevalent in the United States.
Did you cross off anything from your bucket list?
I experienced life in Morocco meeting incredible people from all walks of life. I rode camels, ate goat tajine, and studied the native Amazigh culture and history. I saw the Sahara, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the street markets of the Maghreb.
What is the most interesting thing you learned about the culture?
The most intriguing part of the culture was how much it has progressed in such little time. It gives me faith in the power of always progressing toward what is right.
What is the most interesting thing you learned about yourself?
Morocco taught me how to be independent, which is important, but it is not the most important. The most important thing I learned about myself was how similar I am to people who I once believed were so different from myself.
What was the most common thing people there asked you about?
Hilariously, the most common thing was people wanting to know about my political beliefs — mostly if I voted for Trump or who I thought was going to win the next primary.
Did you experience any reverse culture shock after returning home?
YES! Returning home was amazing for plenty of reasons, but it was also like seeing my home country for the first time again. Things and people move so fast here compared to several places around the world.
What advice would you give to anyone studying abroad?
Skip the touristy places. Try your absolute hardest to become a local, try to learn and speak some of the language, and try to appreciate the history and culture — not just the beaches and resorts.