My Decision

My decision to apply for the Peace Corps wasn't done on a whim. Despite the bliss that so often comes with making an exciting and new decision, I needed to figure out exactly what I would be getting into. I'll let you know when I figure it out.

My thought process started over the summer of my first senior year in college. Yes, like so many I had two. Somewhere along the line it never occurred to me that 6 months studying abroad in France would put me behind one full year with my business classes. Lesson learned and being paid for. Thanks CFI.

My immediate reasons for looking into the Peace Corps are eclectic and start with an average GPA, a desire to travel and avoid the monotony of a 9-5er, and do something exciting that I could slap on the resume. I know I should add something among the lines of"giving back" and "making a difference" that make your eyes gloss over, but I'm still waiting on that bug to bite. I figure that will happen when I check into my hut. Oh... and don't forget the advantages for a returned volunteer! Graduate schools, pensions, and more.

I kept the Peace Corps shelved for a month or two while I researched and spoke with professors about my options after graduation and everything, in my opinion, paled in comparison of the excitement and variety the Peace Corps could provide. So I decided to go for it. Now, remember, I'm still trying to figure out what "it" is. I'll know when I get there.

Taking a class on African Economic Development in college first introduced me, academically, to the many issues that plague Africa. I became intrigued with the continent and its struggles and realized Africa would be better served by first understanding the fundamentals of the continent and then throwing money at it.

So, with my knowledge of French, business, and a genuine interest in Africa, I decided to apply for one of the business programs aimed at French Africa. After passing the first interview, I was nominated, and thus began the arduous task of shots and paperwork that would take me until June 2009 when the Peace Corps finally made a decision.

A volunteer serves for 27 months. Three months of intense language and cultural training within the country of service and then 24 months of service.

I know this experience will help me grow and see how far I can push myself, in particular, my comfort levels. So at this point if you don't see the leap of faith needed to complete a tour, keep reading, and note, I'm not even on the precipice yet.