'Sometimes all it takes is to get over your fears to go and discover opportunities outside of your comfort zone.'
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Looking back at my time in Bahrain, I can honestly say it was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. Going there for my Honours Internship felt like stepping into a whole new world—familiar through our shared Arab identity, yet refreshingly different in culture, lifestyle, and perspectives.
I completed my internship at Arabian Gulf University in Manama, focusing on endometriosis, a gynecological condition affecting roughly 10% of women worldwide. My research involved working with organoid models, which are 3D cell cultures that maintain tissue complexity and provide a more accurate representation than traditional 2D models. Specifically, I explored how morphological and growth differences among organoids relate to histological characteristics.
Being a registered student at AGU also allowed me to live on campus in a dorm, which added a whole new dimension to my experience. I got to participate in student activities and really immerse myself in student life in Bahrain, which made the cultural exchange even richer.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my stay was the cultural exchange. I met people from across the MENA region—Kuwait, Oman, Sudan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and of course Bahrain. Being Moroccan, I’ve always connected with my Arab identity through my own culture, but meeting others showed me how diverse and multifaceted the Arab world truly is. We shared discussions about current regional issues, and I got to experience the richness of the Arabic language and its many dialects. I was immersed in Khaliji Arabic, while many Bahrainis were curious about Darija, Moroccan Arabic. It was fascinating to see this exchange of language and culture act as a bridge between us.
The support of the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation made this opportunity possible. Without their grant, I would not have been able to fully embrace this experience. Beyond the financial support, the Foundation’s encouragement and guidance gave me confidence to dive in and make the most of every moment. The Foundation also helped me broaden my professional network. I made both formal and informal contacts that I believe will be valuable in the future. These connections gave me insight into local perspectives and introduced me to opportunities in the Gulf that I had not seriously considered before. This experience has already influenced my future plans—I now see the Gulf as a place where I could pursue further academic or professional goals.
Most importantly, this journey gave me knowledge that goes beyond the classroom. I learned adaptability, how to engage with people from different backgrounds, and how to appreciate diversity within a shared identity. These are lessons I will carry with me in both my studies and my career.
Looking back, I honestly can say that going to Bahrain has been one of my best decisions I have made in my life. Sometimes all it takes is to get over your fears to go and discover opportunities outside of your comfort zone.
