Ronak is a senior at Solon High School in Solon, Ohio. He is an alumnus of the 2023 NSLI-Y summer program in Marrakesh, Morocco.

Reflecting on his summer abroad in Marrakesh as part of the 2023-2024 NSLI-Y Arabic Program, Ronak Majee found the experience transformative, both culturally and personally. His journey began with a long plane ride from Washington D.C. to Casablanca, followed by a bus ride to Marrakech. Upon arrival at the language center, Ronak and his cohort met their host families, marking the beginning of their immersion into Moroccan life.

One of the most enriching aspects of Ronak's stay was the unexpected cultural exchange that occurred through playing basketball with Moroccan students. Initially, it was just a way to unwind between classes, but it quickly became much more than that. As they played, Ronak began to understand that while society often focuses on an academic understanding of language and culture, taking a step back to engage in daily activities is often far more interesting and inquisitive. Observing and participating in everyday Moroccan life through these casual basketball games offered insights that textbooks and classroom discussions could not.

Enjoying each other’s company while playing basketball transcended language barriers and allowed for a genuine exchange of experiences and perspectives. While playing, both Moroccan and American students were able to discuss all sorts of topics ranging from geopolitics to music taste and sportspersons.

One day, after an especially intense game, Ronak and his friends sat down to rest and chat. They talked about their families, aspirations, and the everyday challenges they faced. This exchange made Ronak realize how much they had in common, despite their different backgrounds.

Moreover, these interactions highlighted the value of sports in fostering international understanding. Playing basketball with his Moroccan peers demonstrated that, despite their different backgrounds, they shared a common love for the game. This shared interest became a platform for building friendships and mutual respect. The competitive yet friendly spirit of the games fostered a sense of unity and collaboration that extended beyond the court.

Ronak's experience learning and understanding Moroccan culture, and how Morocco plays a key role in the world, was significantly deepened by these daily interactions.

Through basketball, Ronak gained a profound appreciation for how cultural elements such as music, customs, and sports can help bridge gaps between cultures. Basketball furthered his cultural understanding, proving that sometimes the most meaningful cultural exchanges happen in the most unexpected places.