First Post

This being my first post on this blog I don't expect anyone much to read it. But hey, I'm doing this as much for myself as for others, so here goes nothing....

I am starting this blog as a way to document the process, for friends and family as well as for Peace Corps hopefuls.

These feet were made for walking, and they just can't seem to be contented to stay in Columbus anymore. Since I had the epiphany at the age of 19 that I "could go anywhere, be anyone" I have had an itch to move far away. This summer I made a move on a long-held aspiration of mine, to join The Peace Corps. I started the process in June with an online application which consisted of extensive questioning regarding my reasons for applying and what I hoped to gain from volunteering. Also included were recommendations, resume, letters of recommendation and medical questions. After that was completed I was invited to an interview in Chicago, IL.

I went to Chicago for my interview with my sister Emily in mid October. I passed the interview and was nominated for a position in Central or South America training primary school teachers. I was told that there was a 50% chance that I may have an assignment change before I receive the invitation letter. Currently I am completing the medical portion of the application which includes tons of lab tests, check ups, etc. I should be finished this week and be moving on to the final portion of the application, the legal check, then I will receive the invitation. Once the invitation letter is sent I will know for sure where I will be posted and what I will be doing. After receiving the invitation volunteers have about 3 months to "close up" their lives and prepare for departure. I expect to be leaving in about May or June with the rate things are moving now.