After spending four months in Morocco, there were many different experiences that were related to their cultural values, beliefs, attitudes, habits, and behaviors that served as great challenges for me to adapt to.
Something that was very difficult for me to adapt to while I was in Morocco would be the concept of not being on time. There were many instances specifically on campus where things and people were never on time. For example, the restaurants on campus very rarely would open on time causing huge frustration for me specifically because I would then not be able to eat lunch before my classes. I also noticed while in Morocco, that students were often late to class, and would not receive a penalty. This was really distracting for me as some students would show up 10 to 15 minutes into a lecture. Whenever trying to meet with a group project partner outside of class, I would also experience them not being on time. I think this has a lot to do with their laid-back culture and not feeling the need to get things done in a timely manner.
This experience of not being on time was really difficult for me to adapt to, especially coming from a place like the US where, in a lot of cases, you must be on time in order to be considered respectful.
On a happier note, one thing that I experienced a lot of in Morocco was the great hospitality. Many of my Moroccan classmates would always tell me to text them if I needed anything or to call them if I felt like I was getting scammed and that they were always willing to help me have a great experience in Morocco. When saying goodbye to all my classmates, before I left, almost every single one of them invited me back to their home when I visit Morocco in the future. Other people that I met off Campus also did the same. I think a lot of this wonderful hospitality has to do with the pride they take in their country, and wanting people to only have positive experiences in Morocco, in hopes of creating a greater image of the country but also because they are genuinely kind, loving people. It was a really refreshing and beautiful feeling to know that everyone there takes pride in their country, and where they come from unlike many people in the United States who have no idea how lucky they are to be living in a free country.
Though there were many challenges on campus due to their rapid expansion, all of my experiences within the country of Morocco were unforgettable and absolutely amazing. I hope that one day I can take my family to Morocco and use my knowledge of studying there for four months, to be confident in navigating them around the country.
Shoukran Maghrib!
