"Developing a New Narrative of Morocco" by Hope Ninmann
Growing up, I dreamed of being in the place I am today. Among the tall palm trees, the salty sea and the distinct culture that I longed for but was never able to experience until now. As a kid I knew very little about my father, all except that he was from a place called Morocco. I latched onto any known facts either about him or this far away place. In the few times I did see him he gave me a pair of Moroccan slippers, or babouch. These slippers, designed with vibrant satin and iridescent beads, were idolized by my younger self as it was tethered to a culture that I longed to know some day. Over the years, they became a reminder of the dreams I had from my younger self to be in the position I am today.
Now, after spending four months here, I have been able to interact with a culture that I once viewed through pictures and articles. My thoughts of Morocco no longer end with curiosity but memories. I came to develop a narrative of my own about Morocco molded by my own experiences. Here is what I will think about when I think about Morocco…
The People: The people that I have met here, Moroccans, my cohort, and migrants will always have a lasting impact on me. In the beginning of the semester I was having a rough time adjusting to the different environment, but Moroccans continued to make me feel welcomed. The cohort from the program came to feel like a second family and it was interesting to experience a different culture with others who were from different parts of the U.S. During my semester I interned at a migrant and refugee NGO where I met people from other places in the Arab world and Africa.
The Diversity of Cities: Every city that I visited had its unique architecture and charm. From Tangier to Marreckech to Essouira they all seemed to absorb the unique biome that they were in. Furthermore, I will always remember the souks as it was interesting to see what new things each city had to offer.
The Traditions: Now when thinking of the traditions of Morocco, I think of the henna that I got at an Amazigh village, the Moroccan mint tea that I drank with my host family, and the large servings of tagine and couscous.
Public Transportation: Growing up and attending schools in rural areas I have always been dependent on my car. However, I did not realize how dependent on self-transportation I was until coming here. In the beginning, it was stressful to rely on public transportation especially when there is a language barrier. Yet, with time I began to love the colorful taxis and the tram system.
Cats: There's a lot of them and I love them all.
My Family: The best part of my time was being able to meet my family here. Despite the language barrier, learning and experiencing the culture and the traditions from them is something I will never forget. Not only was I able to drink mint tea and eat tagine, but I was able to do so with my family. There were times where I felt disconnected from the culture, but spending time with my family helped me feel more connected.
Expanding beyond the slippers of my childhood, I gathered new emblems of Morocco that hold a greater meaning to me now. Coming here gave me the opportunity to create my own memories and distinction of what Morocco is to me.
Hope Ninmann is a student from St. Lawrence University studying abroad on the Amideast Morocco Area and Arabic Language Studies program during the Fall 2025 semester.
