By Yousef Mohamed Abdelmotee,
Fourth-Year Medical Student, Galala University, Egypt
When I first joined the Entrepreneurship Exchange, I didn’t expect it to influence me as deeply as it did. As a fourth-year medical student from Egypt, most of my academic world revolves around hospitals, clinical rotations, and patient care. Entrepreneurship felt like a different universe at first, but this program quickly showed me how strongly innovation and healthcare can intersect.
Working on the team project was one of the most defining parts of the experience. Our group came from different countries and academic backgrounds, which made every meeting full of fresh ideas. But like any real team, we faced challenges, especially when some teammates began to fall out or participate inconsistently. At first, I tried my best to keep everyone engaged, making sure every voice felt heard and included. It wasn’t always easy, but it taught me a lot about leadership, patience, and understanding.
Over time, I realized something important: while you hope everyone shows up with equal
commitment, true teamwork grows strongest when you focus your energy on the people who
genuinely care. Working closely with the teammates who stayed dedicated made our project not only more productive, but also more meaningful. Their consistency and passion motivated me to give my best, and together we created an environment where ideas flowed freely and respectfully. That experience itself was a lesson in collaboration that I know will stay with me long after the program.
The live sessions added even more depth to the journey. The session with Maha Mourad especially resonated. Hearing an Egyptian leader speak about innovation on an international stage made the experience feel personal and inspiring. It pushed me to think about how entrepreneurship can strengthen healthcare systems, support patients, and bring solutions to underserved communities.
Beyond the academic learnings, the cultural exchange within the program left a strong impact on me. Connecting with students from around the world reminded me how much our environments shape our goals, and how collaboration across borders can spark ideas we wouldn’t discover on our own.
By the end of the program, I realized how much I had grown. I came in hoping to learn something new; I left with a broader mindset, new friendships, and a stronger belief in the power of teamwork and innovation. This program expanded my vision for my career and the kind of impact I want to create both in medicine and beyond.