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Vin on a camel

Vin's Story

Vin's internship at Startgate, a startup incubator in Marrakesh-Safi, Morocco, focused on enhancing internal operations and promoting data-driven decision-making. Through the development of automation and data visualizations, Vin significantly improved the efficiency of mentor assignments for startup cohorts. He implemented automation solutions that streamlined the mentor assignment process for each cohort. This innovation increased efficiency and ensured that startups received timely and relevant mentorship, which was crucial for their growth.

This internship was a transformative experience that significantly shaped his personal and professional development. At Startgate, Vin learned to adjust his communication style to be more patient and deliberate, appreciating the communal decision-making process prevalent in Moroccan culture. This experience deepened his commitment to working in diverse environments and reinforced his desire to pursue a career that combines technology, innovation, and social impact. He discovered that he thrives in challenging situations that require creative problem-solving, which has directed his focus toward opportunities aligned with entrepreneurship and global development. In his free time, he explored Morocco’s rich history and diverse landscapes, from the bustling markets of Marrakesh to the vast Sahara Desert, enriching his understanding of the culture. Overall, the internship honed his technical skills and inspired him to seek roles where he can make a meaningful difference in communities worldwide.

My favorite part of my MISTI experience was the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture while contributing to meaningful projects at Startgate. I loved exploring Morocco's rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant local communities.
Vin

During the internship, Vin leveraged skills acquired at MIT in computer science and data analysis. The ability to analyze data and develop software solutions was instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by Startgate. Vin had an enriching experience through interactions with a diverse group of professionals. The collaborative environment fostered knowledge-sharing and innovative thinking. Recognizing the importance of local cultural norms, Vin adapted his communication style to align with the hierarchical and communal aspects of the Moroccan work culture. He became more attuned to non-verbal cues and adopted a patient, deliberate approach to communication. This sensitivity facilitated strong relationships with colleagues and contributed to successful team projects. Vin's internship at Startgate was a transformative experience, marked by applying MIT-acquired skills and developing new competencies. His contributions to automating processes and creating data visualizations significantly improved the incubator's operations. Moreover, the experience enriched Vin's understanding of workplace cultural dynamics, enhancing his professional and personal growth. 

Major & Class Year
Computer Science and Engineering '26
Internship Host
Startgate
Location
Morocco
MISTI Program
Internship
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Yara's story