Viladana's Exchange Experience in Morocco – A Blend of Medicine and Culture

My second professional exchange took place in Morocco, at the ophthalmology department. Traveling to an African country was a real challenge for me, as I knew I would be entering a completely different world – a new culture, language, habits, architecture, and daily life.

I stayed in a student dormitory in Casablanca, while the clinic where I completed my internship was located quite far away. Nevertheless, traveling together with colleagues by taxi and sharing costs made it manageable. I was particularly excited to have the opportunity to work in the ophthalmology department, a field that is highly developed in Morocco. During my time there, I gained exposure to pediatric ophthalmology, modern methods for treating retinal cancer in children, and many innovative diagnostic procedures. This experience greatly broadened my professional knowledge and skills.

Although the internship was an invaluable part of the journey, the travels and all the kilometers we covered became my greatest inspiration and joy. Experiencing something completely different – the atmosphere, buildings, historic city centers, and the essence of Moroccan culture – was the highlight of the trip.

We visited many remarkable cities in Morocco. In Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara desert, we rode camels and spent a night amidst the vast sand dunes. Walking barefoot on the warm sand, seeing a scorpion, climbing a dune under the starry night sky – these moments will remain etched in my memory forever.

The famous city of Marrakesh, known as the “Red City” because of its characteristic red buildings and streets, left a lasting impression on me. I had the opportunity to attend a traditional Moroccan night in the streets, enjoying music, dance, and the smells of local food – an unforgettable cultural experience.

Rabat, the capital city, struck me as the most beautiful city: clean, peaceful, and full of a sense of safety. In contrast, Chefchaouen, the “Blue City,” amazed me with its play of light – as the sunset blends into the blue walls, the entire city becomes almost magical and truly unforgettable.

One of the most special experiences was visiting a friend in Fes. I spent a few days in her home, met her family, and experienced genuine Moroccan hospitality, tradition, and everyday life. Fes is a city rich in history, renowned for its unique architecture and vibrant colors. I was particularly fascinated to see the oldest university in the world, which still educates students today.

Morocco is a country I could talk about for hours, but I will leave some of its wonders for others to discover and experience themselves. This exchange in Morocco was much more than professional training. It combined medicine and culture, science and friendship, professional growth and personal memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.

I am especially touched and immensely grateful that the Bosana Foundation once again supported me this year. Their support made this journey and exchange possible and is the reason I have the opportunity to enrich my knowledge, experience, and personal growth. Their belief in me and my future gives me the strength and inspiration to keep learning, growing, and contributing to the world around me.

Experiences like this shape not only our professional paths but also our character. They teach us the importance of being open to the world, embracing diversity, and valuing every encounter along the way. Every moment spent thanks to the Bosana Foundation carries warmth, inspiration, and enduring gratitude.

Vildana Hodžić

University of Zenica

Faculty of Medicine

Bosana scholarship recipient 2019/2020