Top 10 Questions About Peace Corps Answered

Hello Dear Reader,

One of my favorite things to do while on my little Peace Corps blog, is to look at who visits my blog. My dad (one of my most loyal readers) and I are always amazed by the fact that people are still interested in my experience, years after I completed my service. Additionally, we both find it interesting to look at how my blog's readership spans the globe. Of particular interest to me is that many people search for similar topics, and somehow, over the past (nearly) 6 years, my blog has managed to be a reference point to address some of the burning questions folks have regarding life in the Peace Corps.

To help put your mind and Google at ease, I'll attempt to pull all of the questions and answers into one blog post. So, here you go...Top 10 Questions About Peace Corps Answered (Please note that these answers are from my understanding and experiences alone)...and in no particular order.

Q1: Can I choose where I want to serve?

A1: When I was in the Peace Corps application process, the answer was a big, resounding "NO". Applicants were placed in countries based on their experiences and the needs of the particular Peace Corps country program. If you were fluent in French and worked for 10 years in the field of HIV/AIDS, it might be unlikely that you'd be placed in Chile working on an agro-forestry project. From my understanding, now, times are a'changin'. Peace Corps seems to be a bit more flexible in terms of allowing applicants to have more of a say in where they go. Lucky you...! But I enjoyed being surprised! For me, as long as I knew I was accepted and was going somewhere, I was happy!


Q2: Can I bring my dog with me to Peace Corps?

A2: During my application process, I had an amazing dog who was consecutively awarded the "International Best Buddies" Award (I was on sole member of the selection committee, of course). He was a great guy. He was smart. He was handsome. He was a great friend. If I were allowed to bring that awesome guy with me, trust me, I would have. Unfortunately for us, Peace Corps didn't and still does not allow you to bring your pet dog/cat/bird/lizard/fish/potted plant with you. Make sure to ask your buddy's temporary, US-based caretaker to send plenty of updates.


Q3: Can I serve with my boyfriend/girlfriend? We are Facebook Official after all!

A3: Unless Peace Corps and Beyonce inspire you and your boo to "put a ring on it", unfortunately, the answer is no. Peace Corps only allows married couples to serve together. True, indeed, distance can either make the heart grow fonder or it can lead you on separate paths. I've had friends who came with someone waiting at home and were married upon completion of service. I've also had friends who had someone waiting at home, found a cutie pie during service, and got married after service. I've also had friends who came as a singleton and left as a singleton. Love and life are a gamble in DC, NYC, and JNB...go figure!

Q4: What is the translation for "Wathint'abafazi, Wathint'imbokodo"?

A4: Now you have touched a woman, you have struck a rock. A very powerful saying addressing women's rights. For more information, check out this link.

Q5: Can I bring my computer/electronic equipment with me?

A5: Can I tell you a little story? For Christmas, my Ethiopian must have been a very good boy (or my parents advocated strongly on his behalf for talking their daughter off their hands), because Santa Claus gave him a brand-stinkin'-new iPad. What a day! What a day! My Ethiopian was like a kid in a candy store- downloading apps, taking advantage of high-speed internet to watch every BBC video news clip, Facebooking like there was no tomorrow and then some! The moment my dear Ethiopian crossed over US borders and into Addis Ababa and away from high-speed, unlimited internet access, his prized possession was little more than a fancy, electronic picture album and iPod. In Peace Corps, a picture album and iPod are gifts sent by the Gods, please don't get me wrong. I'm just sayin'.... I'll let you read into that story and do with it what you will.


Q6: How do I tell my parents that I want to join the Peace Corps?

A6: I'll tell you how I did it. The same day I learned about Peace Corps, in the 3rd grade, I went home and told my parents all about it with the zest and zeal that only a 3rd grader could have! From 3rd grade until one year post grad school, I slooooooooooooowly but surely approached the subject, so by the time I was ready to pack my bags for South Africa, they thought me joining the Peace Corps was their idea. Clearly, I took the long, round'about way of convincing my parents. This strategy might not work for you, but the good thing is that you know your family and friends MUCH better than I do, so I'm sure that you'll come up with something that works very well!


Q7: Do you feel "safe" in Peace Corps?

A7: During your pre-service training (PST)- the first 2-3 months of your PC service- Peace Corps staff do their best to educate trainees on how to keep themselves safe within the context of their country/community. Some recommendations are to make strong relationships within your community; learn the local language, listen to the advice of people within your community (they know what/where is safe and what/where is not safe); be observant (if women do not wear shorts and short skirts, it's probably not a good idea that you do); reduce your alcohol consumption (or just don't drink if you don't have to. Remember, you're not in your local neighborhood bar. You're in a different country, with different rules and safety concerns.); if someone tries to take your phone, don't argue with them or try to fight them (your phone is replaceable. you are not.); and so on.  For the most part, you have the ability to keep yourself safe. Similarly, you have the choice to make unwise decision to compromise your safety. Be smart. If you ever have any concerns, your PC country team will be able to assist you.


Q8: Can you go home during Peace Corps service/Can friends and family visit you during Peace Corps Service?

A8: Yes. I do know several people who went home for a visit during Peace Corps, including myself. For me, going home was the refresher that I needed to make it through my second year. Additionally, my mom came to visit me during my service. We had a blast! Do I regret going home? Nope, I don't. It was what I needed at the time.

Does Peace Corps encourage you to go home during service? I should think not. Just think about it, there are so many new and interesting things in your host country that you've yet to explore.

Does Peace Corps encourage you to share your experiences with friends and family, while still "in the field"? Yes, yes, yes! Sharing your Peace Corps experience with friends and family is all part of the Third Goal (sharing your experience with Americans to bring a better understanding).  Many PCVs and RPCVs only get to share their service with the folks back home through letters, pictures, and presentations. To actually see/feel/touch/taste the things you rave/complain about is 1000% better! I wish more people could have visited me during service, but the cool thing about continuing to live abroad is that I can still invite folks experience the amazing things about life in Southern Africa! Soon, many of my friends and family will have the chance to visit my new home-away-from-home: Ethiopia. Better still, my Ethiopian fiance recently relocated to Lesotho. Instead of just visiting me during his vacations, he's having his own first hand experiences in an new environment! Fun, fun, fun!



Q9: What does "Ke go gopotse" mean?

A9: "Ke go gopotse" means "I miss you" in Setswana/Sesotho. Over my almost 6 years of living in Southern Africa, I've grown to truly understand the meaning of those words on multiple levels.

I miss you: Lou Malnotti's pizza, Wendy's #1 with cheese, 3G internet, customer service, conveniences, current tv shows.

I miss you: Gerald, Chris, Jestein, Mom, Dad, Karl, Christina, Grandparents, family members, friends. Regular time spent with family and friends. Being able to give hugs, a kiss, hold your hand, pat your back when you've done a great job or when you need a shoulder to lean on. Skype certainly has revolutionized the way I'm able to keep up with the people I love most, but it is no replacement for being there in person.

I miss you: Dear friends and friends who were more like family, I miss you and I can't believe you're gone. In my line of work (HIV/AIDS programming), I've been able to meet some of the most amazing people. I've also experienced the loss of some of those great people because of a cruel, incredibly frustrating disease!



Q10: Are there alternatives to Peace Corps?

A10: Peace Corps is not for everyone. I'll be the first person to admit that. Not everyone has the time nor desire to uproot their lives for two years to volunteer in another country that does not offer the conveniences that they're used to. Peace Corps service is often called "The toughest job you'll ever love." I agree. It's frustrating at times. It's inspiring at times. It'll drive you crazy at times. You'll be driven to new heights at times.

Recently, Peace Corps opened up the Peace Corps Response program to people who may not have completed two years of service. If you don't have two years to give, but have experiences that will be helpful on a more short-term assignment, you may want to check it out here.

But the real answer is...there is no real alternative to Peace Corps...a very unique program like no other.

Tips for People Moving to Lesotho

Hello Dear Reader,

Soon after closing out my Peace Corps service, I landed my current job which has me based in Maseru, Lesotho. I began the feverish search for any and everything about life in Maseru and Lesotho in general. Although Lesotho was the last place I visited prior to being put on "travel lockdown" (the last 3 months of PC service, you're required to stay at your site until you leave), I could safely say that I knew and remembered little to nothing about the "Mountain Kingdom", other than Malealea Lodge offers awesome views of some of Lesotho's lowland mountains, and all on the back of 'surefooted" trail horses. I also remember driving down Kingsway Road, through the center of town with two of my fellow PCV friends and thinking..."So where is it? Where's the town?" Of course, coming from the BIG CITY of Rustenburg, South Africa, Maseru looked like a one-horse town! Nearly four years later, my understanding and appreciation for Maseru and Lesotho as a whole have grown tremendously.

I'm excited to say that, within the next week or two, my beautiful Ethiopian will soon be relocating to Lesotho. With that exciting event just around the corner, I've given thought to how I can best orient him and other people looking to relocate. Hmm...what were the things I wanted to know about living as an expat in this beautiful country?

In my tiny attempt to giving my Ethiopian and you a "heads up", here is the unofficial guide to all things 'Lesotho expat':

Entertainment (The most important information to know when going to any new city, right?)

Times Cafe: Located in the center of town, on Kingsway Rd, Times Cafe (formally Good Times Cafe) is THE consistent late-night 'upscale' bar/club in town. A nice selection of DJ's rotate every night and play everything from hiphop to house music. The food selection is fair...think average bar food. In my opinion, the best night to go is "Phuza Thursdays"! Thursdays, as we know, is the day before the official start of the weekend. Phuza Thursdays helps you get the party started. If you're into football, Good Times has large screens located throughout, broadcasting all of the big matches. You're sure to find a crowd when you get there!

Lithaleng aka "The Pit": Located in the industrial area of town of Moshoeshoe Rd (pronounced Mo-shh-way-shh-way...an important word to know, by the way), "The Pit" is the King's former horse stables turned favorite hangout spot of many of the people I know. Going to "The Pit", you'll find all of the young crowd who wants to chill, have a few drinks, and listen to good music. In my opinion, the Pit is best during summertime, as most of the seating space is outside. Come wintertime, go to Good Times or stay at home and try not to freeze your nose off!

Pioneer Mall aka "The new mall": I really don't remember what life was like in Maseru prior to opening of "The new mall". Prior to 'the new mall', we all went to Shoprite for our groceries, which is also where you ran into EVERYONE. It was the central meeting point. The 'new mall" has Ster-Kinekor movie theatre, Pick 'n Pay grocery store (nicer than the Shoprite...you can find blueberries, and fancy cooking oils), Ocean Basket (think Red Lobster), Spur (think Steak n' Ale), Steers (think McDonalds-esk), KFC (yep, Kentucky Fried Chicken), Debonaire (a take away pizza joint), LCS (where you can pay for your DSTV (i.e. cable tv). think a very small time Kmart), an electronics store, a dry cleaners (although the best dry cleaning service is Emmanuel's, next to the Shoprite), and Renaissance Cafe (slow service, but nice people and decent food). There are a few clothing stores and random little shops as well (you'll see when you get here).

Malealea Lodge: Mountain lodge. Pony trekking. Bushman paintings. Hiking. Short drive from Maseru.

Semonkong Lodge: Mountain lodge. Pony trekking. Longest single commercial abseil drop in Africa. BEAUTIFUL

Afriski: Thought you couldn't ski in Africa? Think again!

...to keep it short, if you like to do outdoors stuff, Lesotho is the place to be! You want fishing? We've got it! You want to support a national football team? Yep, we've got that too! You want to boat, hike, learn about Lesotho history, want a running club, need a world class gym with Spinning/Swimming/Private trainers/Squash courts/basketball courts/tennis courts/jazzercise, mountain biking club, mountain dirt bike competition known throughout Africa? We've got it all!

Restaurants

Pizza/Italian: Mimmo's, Debonairs Pizza, and Scooters Pizza. Mimmo's is a nice meet-up spot for lunch and after work drinks. The service is pretty slow, but the staff is very friendly. Plus, the balcony is a great spot for hanging out with friends (in the summer time). Debonairs has a stand-alone location and one at "The new mall". Scooters Pizza is located in the" Industrial Area", and the great thing about this little pizza joint is that they deliver for a nominal fee to locations in the Maseru central business district area. An added plus is that, if you have friends/family members who want Nando's, Scooters will deliver that too. The trick to getting Scooters to deliver Nando's (since they're owned by the same family) is that you first place your order at Nando's and you'll get an order number. While placing your order for Scooters, give them your Nando's number and you'll get your food in a jiffy! Last, but not least, if you're up for a nice drive out to a town called Taya-Tayaneng (TY for short), you can always go to the Blue Mountain Inn for (in my opinion) the best pizza in Lesotho. My friends give me a hard time about this, but all of the Peace Corps Volunteers in country will likely agree! Also, TY is the "crafts capital" of Lesotho. You can choose from a selection of handmade weavings or design your own with any one of the local weaver collectives.

Chinese Food: Yup, Lesotho has a sizable Chinese community, along with an equally impressive selection of Chinese food. Peace Restaurant is the expat favorite. Any day of the week, you can organize a private room with karaoke. Behind the Victoria Hotel, you'll find a hidden little restaurant with decent selections. Within the past year, another restaurant has opened up next to Lancer's Inn Hotel. The buffet provides a reasonable and quick lunchtime option. Ying Tao is located in the Lesotho Sun Hotel. This is my favorite Chinese spot because of the teppanyaki tables...think Benihana. The "angry duck" option and selection of Thai soups are really good. This is an "upscale" restaurant, so be prepared to bring your Maluti!

Seafood: Ocean Basket- they also have freshly made sushi.

Steak: If you want a takeaway plate of pap, spinach, and steak off the grill, there are gazillions of ladies selling takeaway plates out of the boot of her car on just about any corner. Don't turn your nose up at this option because you just might land on an hidden gem! For the more conservative palate, you can also go to the "new mall" for Spur. Watch out for Wednesday nights..."Mexican night". Sit back and watch the wait staff dance around the restaurants in their sombreros and ponchos. Interesting.

Grocery Stores: Pick n'Pay is in the "new mall" and has more fancy options than the Shoprite. By fancy, I mean a wide selection of fruits such as blueberries (my personal favorite), pineapples, gooseberries, and blackberries. Around Thanksgiving, the US Embassy usually sources turkey (a rare treat). Pick n'Pay, at least this year, had extra stock and you know your girl has one big frozen bird in her freezer, just waiting for the right night for a dinner party! Shoprite, while not as fancy is the tried and true grocery store. Unlike the Pick n'Pay, you're always able to find a nice selection of boneless skinless chicken. Pick n'Pay, on the other hand, has nice lean mince meat (aka ground beef).

Weekend Brunch: The one, the only Living Life Cafe, located in Ladybrand, South Africa. If you want to step into Martha Stewart's own personal backyard patio for a shabby chic brunch and run into just about every expat there is in a 30 km radius, this is the place you must go. Berry juice...YUM! Homemade pies, tarts and other tasty treats...Oh...Wow! Many items on the menu are grown right there on the Living Life Cafe property. The wait staff treats you like family, the kids can play on the little shabby chic playground, and you can even bring your little dog along to enjoy the good food and sun! Living Life is open every day except Sunday and Monday. The kitchen closes by 3pm. On top of all of the delicious food, you can also purchase homemade, shabby chic plush toys, clothes, and bath salts/jewelry/stuff. Trust me, crossing over the boarder into South Africa for Living Life is well worth dedicating passport pages. My body thanks me for Living Life. Your body will thank you too.

Coffee: Right on the corner of Pioneer and Kingsway, in the center of town, you'll find this cute little outdoor cafe. Great for light sandwiches, coffee, and mixed company. The cafe is run by a family of Eritreans. After 5pm, you'll see the nightly migration of Eritrean and Ethiopian men to Ouh La La Cafe for their regular coffee meet-ups. My Ethiopian participated in this nightly ritual during his trip to Lesotho last April.

Sundowners: This hotel is located at the top of a hill with a patio overlooking Maseru town and part of South Africa. For sun downers, this is THE one and only place to go! On Thursday nights, stick around for live jazz.

Fried Chicken: Yep, we have KFC. Eww. Hungry Lion. Eww. Not to brag or anything, but I am from the South and know how to whip up a Southern meal if you know what's good for you.

Burgers: Steers...meh. If you want a "taste of home", you can always drive to Bloemfontein, South Africa for the weekend (or just a day trip) for McDonald's. Personally, I'm a die hard Wendy's girl. McDonalds Happy Meals have, however, gotten me over the case of the "I want to go home" blues during my time in Peace Corps. Also, if you were born prior to 1985, you'll remember that, before McDonald's went on a "semi-health kick", they had (gasp now) fried apple pies. My favorite!!! Luckily, South Africa still appreciates the original fried apple pies, and McDonald's has happily obliged. Side note: My parents are friends with the CEO of McDonald's and his wife. I asked my mother to convey a special "Thank you" for having the sense not to take this off the menu everywhere. Yes, I did just say that. Yes, I am a Public Health Professional. Yes, I do eat according to the new food pyramid. Yes, I run regularly (although admittedly in a slump at the moment) and participate in races all over Southern Africa . Yes, I do love a McDonald's fried apple pie every once in a while. Sue me.

Other options: Take a day trip (or weekend trip) to Bloemfontein, South Africa and see how your South African neighbors live...with more activities and food options. The new Cinnabon is the wave of the future. Since I gain weight just thinking about a fresh, hot Cinnabon, I don't usually go this route, but hey, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.

Accommodation

Hotels/B&Bs: You have plenty o' options for hotels and B&Bs: Lancer's Inn Hotel (the expat favorite because it's right in the center of town within walking distance to everything), Maseru and Lesotho Sun Hotels (the Lesotho Sun is the more pricey option), Foothills B&B, and so many more. Take your pick!

Housing: It's a pain. Every expat and development organization wants to be in the central business district. As such, suitable housing is in short supply and high demand. With that combination, what do you get? High rent! The best way to find housing is by word of mouth, hiring a broker, and postings in the expat-run Frontier News, formally the Lesotho News (If you want to start looking for things prior to arriving, send an email to lesothonews@gmail.com). Neighborhoods to consider: Maseru West, Lower Thetsane, White City, Race Course Area, Friebel, Hillsview, Leseli Flats, and the Arrival Centre. The average cost of rent is about M6000/$750 per month. Good luck!

The more practical, adult stuff you need to know

Cable/Utilities: WASA to set up your water account. LEC to set up your electricity account. DSTV to set up your tv account. Econnet for your home telephone and WiFi internet at home. Vocacom for your cellphone and wireless internet modem (pay as you go or account). Once you get these things set up, you'll get a little key to refill your pay-as-you-go water meter, which you'll be able to take to the Engen Garage (petrol/gas station in town)/Shoperite/WASA HQ/Pick n'Pay for a refill. Same thing for the electricity, although your house will have a meter number that you can store in your cellphone and stop by the Engen Garage anytime you like to refill (thank heavens for the 24 hour garage!!!!).

Money: Withdraw large-ish amounts of cash from the ATM instead of having to get those darn bank charges. Most ATMS in-country will spit out cash in the local currency (Maluti). Maluti can be used in Ladybrand, South Africa, but that's it. Don't try to take it along on your weekend trip to Jozi. They'll look at you like you're crazy. The Standard Bank ATM in "the new mall" and at the border will allow you to withdraw South African Rands, which, ironically, can be used in Lesotho. FYI, having a local bank account to keep small amounts of money may be useful.

Safety: Despite what you may have heard about Lesotho's Mother Ship (aka South Africa), Lesotho is a jewel when it comes to the hospitality of the people, and safety. Of course, every city should be approached with your regular amount of caution, and Lesotho is, by no means and angel, but you can feel safe walking in groups at night without worry if your purse will get snatched. The majority of people are super friendly, warm and welcoming. If you have a question, stop someone and ask. In Lesotho, you get the best of both worlds: the peacefulness of a small town with lots of outdoor activities and access to the beautiful beast that is South Africa. (I'm proudly South African, if you didn't know!).

Dry Cleaning: Emmanuel's (across from Lancer's Inn Hotel) is THHHHHHHHE best place to get your clothes dry cleaned. I love walking into this shop, where staff working in the back come to the front to greet me. They are super fast, friendly, and when your clothes are done, you get an SMS. Beat that, dry cleaner on the bottom floor of "the new mall"!

Spa Services: Uhhh, yes, this is a practical, adult activity. Make reservations at the Lesotho Sun or Cranberry Cottage in Ladybrand. A facial, massage, pedi and mani go nicely with brunch at Living Life Cafe.

Veterinary Care: There is a Vet in Ladybrand that many expats use. They are SUPER affordable (way more affordable, and just as good as any Vet care you'll receive in the States). Also, there's an equally good (although not as fancy) Vet in Maseru across from Lehakoe Gym. For a while, I trekked across the border to Ladybrand with my big, stinky, snorting dog so that he could get his routine check-ups. One day, after giving said stinky, fat-fat dog a presumptive diagnosis of tick bite fever, I rushed him over to the local Vet. Badda bing! Badda boom! Big dog was cured. Moving forward, my big boy is Lesotho born (actually South Africa), bred, and bandaged locally!

Well Ethiopian man and newcomers alike, that's all I've got for you at the moment. If you have any requests for information, let me know! Welcome to Lesotho!

Until next time,

Dani

12 Reasons to Date a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer

It’s Valentine’s Day! A day when we celebrate friendship, love, and romance. Through the years here at the National Peace Corps Association, we’ve heard countless stories of Peace Corps romance. The couples that met at the airport on the way to training. The couples that met while serving. The Peace Corps Volunteers that fell in love with a host country national. And the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers that connected back here in the States, discovering that the shared bond of Peace Corps service was the spark that led to a relationship.

Peace Corps is a life-changing experience that develops a unique set of skills and attributes. So it goes without saying: Returned Peace Corps Volunteers make GREAT dates. And just to prove it, we’ve started a list. 12 reasons to date a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer:

Source

1. We can woo you in multiple languages. Who else is going to whisper sweet nothings to you in everything from Albanian to Hausa to Quechua to Xhosa? That’s right. Only a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer.
2. We’re pretty good dancers. Yeah, we don’t like to brag, but after 27 months in Latin America or Africa we know how to move it. 
3. We’ll eat anything. Seriously. No matter how bad your cooking, Returned Peace Corps Volunteers have had worse and will eat it with nary a blink. Sheep’s eyeball? Water buffalo gall bladder? Grasshoppers? Bush rat? Bring it. 
4. We know all about safe sex, thanks to our very thorough Peace Corps health training. In fact, there’s a chance that we’ve stood unblushingly in front of hundreds of villagers and demonstrated good condom technique with a large wooden phallus. 
5. We’ll kill spiders for you. Well, actually, we’ll nonchalantly scoop them up and put them out of sight. Same goes for mice, geckos, frogs, snakes. Critters don’t faze Returned Volunteers. 
6. We have great date ideas: wandering a street market, checking out a foreign film, taking in a world music concert, volunteering…. Romantic getaway? Our passport is updated and our suitcase is packed. With us, life is always an adventure. 
7. We like you for “you”… not your paycheck. Especially if we are freshly back from service, a local joint with “character” will win out over a pretentious eatery. Living in a group house? Does it have running hot water? What luxury! 
8. You won’t get lost when you’re with a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer. Navigating local markets on four continents, we’ve honed an uncanny sense of direction. Or else we’ll ask for directions. We’re not afraid to talk to “strangers.” 
9. Waiting for a late train or bus? Don’t worry, we’ve been there, done that. We can share lots of funny stories about “the bus ride from hell” that will make the time go quickly and put it all into perspective. 
10. Our low-maintenance fashion style. Returned Peace Corps Volunteer guys are secure in their manhood and don’t mind rocking a sarong. Women often prefer flip flops to high heels. We don’t spend hours in front of a mirror getting ready to go out. 
11. Marry us, and you won’t just get one family — you’ll get two! When we refer to our “brother” or “mom,” you’ll want to be certain we’re talking about our American one or our Peace Corps one. You might even get two wedding ceremonies, one in the U.S. and one back in our Peace Corps country. 
12. And last but not least, we aren’t afraid to get dirty. 

Peace Corps: Read All About It

Hello Dear Reader,

Let me tell you a few things about me: I love the Peace Corps. I love to read. I think that Wikipedia is the future (no, I won't so inclined to reference Wikipedia in a scientific journal artical...but still). For one reason or another, I decided to see what Wikipedia had to say about Peace Corps. In addition to learning about past PC Directors, I found a brief bibliography of books about or referencing Peace Corps. The list was, by no means, exhaustive because I can personally reference at least three books I read in preparation for my own PC service that didn't make the Wiki-list.

If you're a Peace Corps fan like I am, want to read about other volunteers' perspectives, or are in need of a new eddition to your Kindle (I'm an iPad girl myself), check out the list below.

1) Alan Weiss's 1968 account of Peace Corps training, High Risk, High Gain: A Freewheeling Account of Peace Corps Training, has been called "perhaps the most obscure, least known, and most unread" of all the great books written about the Peace Corps experience.[66] Trainees in those days were classified by potential risk and by potential gain and Weiss discovered in his training days that he had been classified as High Risk/High Gain, a potential "Supervolunteer" or a potential "crash and burn." Weiss's book is funny, outrageous and sad but also valuable because it captures the “craziness” of those early years at the Peace Corps.[66]


2) Published in 1969, Moritz Thomsen's Living Poor: A Peace Corps Chronicle (ISBN 978-0295969282) recounts the author's service in Ecuador.[67] RPCV Paul Theroux said that Living Poor was the best book he ever read on the Peace Corps experience[68] and Tom Miller wrote that Thomsen was "one of the great American expatriate writers of the 20th century."[67] "And as an expat, he was free to judge us all, an undertaking he finessed with acute observations, self-deprecation, and a flavorful frame of reference that ranged from a Tchaikovsky symphony to a Sealy Posturpedic mattress."[67]


3) For a history of the Peace Corps' early days, Coates Redmond's Come as You Are (1986, ISBN 978-0151194353) recounts its birth and how it was thrown together in a matter of weeks. "The book works as a charming, first-person history of the people who made the corps what it was in its formative years," says Charles DeBenedetti at the University of Toledo.[69] "This book is highly readable and essential to understand the evolution of the unique Peace Corps spirit and style that continues to characterize the agency almost 45 years later," wrote Maureen Carroll, an early Peace Corps volunteer.[70]


4) George Packer's (Togo 1982–83) The Village of Waiting (1988, ISBN 978-0374527808) is "one of the most wrenchingly honest books ever written by a white person about Africa, a bracing antidote to romantic authenticity myths and exotic horror stories alike," wrote Matt Steinglass.[71] Isak Dinesen, Packer notes, wrote of waking in the Kenyan highlands and thinking, "Here I am, where I ought to be." Packer himself woke up sweating, hungry, "mildly at ease, or mildly anxious. But never where I ought to be."[71]


5) Tom Bissell served for a few months in Uzbekistan in 1996 before he "early terminated". However, Bissell felt he had really failed the people he joined to help, so he returned in 2001 to write Chasing the Sea (2004, ISBN 978-0-375-72754-2) about the Aral Sea. However, "the secret, personal point of the journey was revisiting this failure of mine, to try to make something up to the country and people I’d abandoned," says Bissell. "My ambitions were actually pretty modest. I wanted to write a book that everyone who traveled to Central Asia would want to read, and I wanted to write a book that everyone who joins the Peace Corps has pressed upon them," Bissell said.[72]


6) Kris Holloway's Monique and the Mango Rains: Two Years With a Midwife in Mali (2006, ISBN 978-1577664352) warmly recounts the author's experience as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali from 1989 to 1990, working as an assistant to a midwife, Monique Dembele. Holloway's memoir provides unique focus on issues of women's health and women's social and economic vulnerability. Reviewing the book for African Studies Review, Yale's Kari A. Hartwig noted that the story, "is told with an honest self-awareness of the author's own naiveté, her hope for a better future for her friend Monique and Monique's family, and the uncertain path of how to bridge difference, culture, opportunities, and privilege"[73]


7) Lawrence F. Lihosit's Peace Corps Chronology; 1961–2010 (2010, 978-1450270694, ISBN 978-1450270694) nominated for the 2010 Peace Corps Writers' Publisher's Special Award,[74] offers a compact history of the Peace Corps as well as informative comparisons. John P. Coyne, editor of Peace Corps Worldwide, has called it "a very impressive book" while fellow Peace Corps historian P. David Searles called it "excellent."


8) Lawrence F. Lihosit's South of the Frontera; A Peace Corps Memoir (2010, ISBN 978-1450218580) is a fast-paced and humorous travel adventure book describing Mexico and Central America between 1975 and 1977 when he went native before even joining the Peace Corps. "One learns a great deal about our Latino neighbors and about ourselves when we respond to them." ,[75] wrote P. David Searles, former Peace Corps staffer and author of a Peace Corps history. Craig Carrozzi, author of The Road to El Dorado (2000, ISBN 9780962028618), called this book "a classic."


9) Lawrence F. Lihosit's Years On and Other Travel Essays (2011, ISBN 978-1-4620-0804-9) includes twelve essays which describe how he hitchhiked along bleak Arizona highways, hacked a path though Honduran mountains in search of water, avoided caiman while riding bulls across flooded Bolivian savannah and grizzlies as he hunted caribou in bush Alaska, ran for his life after getting embroiled in Mexico City politics and more. Tony D'Souza, author of Whiteman commented, "Lihosit chronicles a Moritz Thomsen-like 'path less traveled,' a Peter Hessler-esque possession of language and culture...(the) best and rarest of ex-pats: the Yankee gone native."[76]


10) Lawrence F. Lihosit's Whispering Campaign; Stories from Mesoamerica (2009, ISBN 978-1-4401-7331-8) is like a powerful magnifying glass, focusing on telling details and offering a different hue to American portraits. Allen W. Fletcher, author of Heat, Sand & Friends commented, "As in Chinatown or Ballad of a Thin Man, they go directly to the gut. The mix is a rich one."[77]

Source

Happy Reading,

Dani

Coming to America

Hello Dear Reader,

The epic journey to America was completed about two weeks ago, and I'm still recovering. We took planes, trains (Amtrak, metros & subways), and automobiles from DC to Chicago to NYC and back. There were museums, lots of cheese cake, Christmas tree decorating, Times Square, ferry rides, plays, movies, Target, monuments, memorials, friends, family, and much, much more. Mind you, I've visited (and even lived in two) these three cities multiple times throughout my life, but I saw them through new eyes because of my lovely Ethiopian tourist.

Conversations we had about America's complex past, the definition of success and progress, and every day life helped to reshape my ever evolving perspective on being an American and life in America. Out in the world, America is the icon, a physical manifestation of success/glamor/glory/freedom. Out in the world, people either loath it, love it, fear it, hate it, idealize it and/or want to be a part of it (and sometimes all at once). Hell, throughout my lifetime, I've had all of those feelings. Whilst in America, I struggled with its complex history and attempted to understand how exactly I fit in. Since living abroad, my understanding of who I am, as an American, shifted in a direction I never would have expected. I've actually become rather patriotic. My appreciation for the struggles we've collectively been through has grown tremendously. The freedoms and liberties we have as individuals is a unique gift which is often times taken for granted when they are not routinely called into question (clearly a blanket statement, because there certainly are Americans who continue to be marginalized).

For my lovely Ethiopian, his first trip to the US of A was an overwhelming experience. He literally woke up dancing with excitement. Although he would never admit it, this trip was a dream come true. I had to pinch him to reassure him that this was not a dream (along with having to explain the expression after I actually pinched him). Periodically during our trip, I or someone else would ask him one of two questions: "How do you compare the US to Ethiopia?" and "What stands out the most on your trip thus far?" Because his responses didn't change much over the course of the three weeks we were there, I'll fill you in from what I remember (and add in my own thoughts and feelings...of course).

1. In Ethiopia, there are only a handful of ways food can taste. In the US, there are so many different tastes that one could spend weeks without overlapping culinary experiences.

2. Options. There are so many options for everything- from food, to activities, to information, ways of accessing information, ideas, etc.

3. Tall buildings. He attributed the tall buildings and the well-ordered infrastructure of the US as a testament to the hard work and forward thinking of the American people. (He took pictures of just about each one of the; and went to the tops of the Empire State Building, Sears Tower & the John Hancock Building).

4. Cheese Cake. I know I already mentioned 'foods' in general, but cheese cake deserves a special mention. My Ethiopian had never had cheese cake, only having heard of it from his favorite show "Friends". One bite of my brother's red velvet cheese cake from The Cheese Cake Factory had him hooked. We.ate.cheese.cake.all.the.time.and.talked.about.cheese.cake.all.of.the.time.

5.The Statue of Liberty. I've been to NYC a number of times, but never made the effort to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. For me, Lady Liberty represents a story of migration (by choice) that excluded people who look like me. She is the story of liberty and equality for some, but not all. At the same time, she reminds me of how far we, as a people, have come. My ancestors reached American shores as shackled cargo, and considered as 3/5 of a person. Today, we are in boardrooms, business owners, families, farmers, ~Commander & Chief~, and complete citizens. We have come so far...from fear...to acceptance of difference...always redefining and reshaping what it means to be American.

For my beautiful Ethiopian, however, she is a symbol of America's dynamic past, present and future. She is the hope of a better future, an opportunity to be part of the intricate American fabric. She represents possibilities, of which both me and my Ethiopian are a part.

6. Family. I love, love, love my Ethiopian's family. At least once a day, I am in communication with at least one member of his immediate family. Each one of them embraced me with open arms. His family has become my family, with no distinctions between the love of my brother and his sisters. Equally, my Ethiopian blended so well into my family, that it feels like he's always been present. Routinely, my lovely guy remarked how loving my family is and how happy he is that he has been fully accepted. This, Dear Reader, is a dream come true for me.

7. The Washington Monument. We took gazillions of pictures at every angle possible.

8. The abundance of accessible information. My guy literally spent hours each day in museums. Unlike me, who would read a few display descriptions and move on, he studied the words and things he saw. We debated the theory of evolution vs creationism. He saw the fossil of Lucy, his great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great (throw a bunch of 'greats' in) grandmother (if you believe in evolution, that is). In the Smithsonian, Lucy was standing up and full of life. In the National Museum in Addis Ababa, she was an archaeological find.

For Christmas, my guy got an iPad and iPod, which immediately brought him into the world that Apple is trying to take over. "Apps", "smart phones", "touch screens", 4G Internet (I was impressed), "iCloud", and digital TV. Wow!

To say the very least, our trip home was nothing short of amazing. The best and most meaningful trip home to date. Together, and as a family, we were brought closer through this shared experience. It made him excited for the next trip, and stimulated my interests in, one day, moving back.

Until next time,

Dani

My Personal Life: Peace Corps 2nd & 3rd Goals

Hello Dear Reader,

This festive season, I will have the exciting opportunity to incorporate Peace Corps' 2nd and 3rd goals into my personal life! Yep, you heard it right! But before I dive right into into it, let's revisit Peace Corps 3 goals:

1) Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women

2) Helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of peoples served.

3) Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.

Now that we are all on the same page, let's continue.

As you may have read several posts ago, I will soon marry a beautiful Ethiopian man, who, as it turns out, has never been to the United States. Although he's never been there, he could probably beat the both of us in American history, geography, and present-day politics. He's seen American movies, adores Sam Cooke-era music, and can quote 1960's slang better than any James Baldwin character. Can you dig it? While he can do all of these things, as can many 'outside observers', a true understanding of the USA can only be gained from experiencing its many facets from within. Without experiencing the magic that is the spirit of America and its people for one's self, one can boil the US and all of its many dimensions down to sound bites from CNN and Fox News. Similarly, without exposure to the world beyond US boarder patrol, Americans can be led to think that all Arabs hate us and all Africans wear Zebra loin clothes to work. Nope, that just won't do!

During our two-week trip, with stops in Washington, DC; Chicago; and New York City, my dear, sweet, sweetness will have the opportunity to meet up with old friends who have immigrated to the US. He will take the requisite in-front-of-the-White-House photo, walk up the steps of the Supreme Court, listen to down home blues, decorate a real Christmas tree, watch the 24 hour marathon of "A Christmas Story" on TNT like a real American, stroll along Lake Shore Drive, see the bright lights of Time Square, feel the warmth of family and friends as they welcome him into their homes and lives, go ice skating in Millennium Park, eat a real Chicago deep-dish pizza, and much more. My lovely guy will get to experience how Americans celebrate Christmas and bring in the New Year. (Side note: Did you know that, in Ethiopia, they use the Julian Calendar? Did you know that, on September 11th, Ethiopians brought in the year 2004? Did you know that, in Ethiopia, Christmas (known as Ganna) is celebrated on January 7th?) He will see that, to be American, does not equate to xenophobia. He will learn that, to be American, is not reduced to Black or White, but is actually represented by the myriad of colors in a rainbow.

On the same token, my family and friends will have the opportunity to get to know and love my sugar pie-honey bunch, just as I do. They will get to hear, for the first time, the bird song-like quality of Amharic. My guy and his BFF, who lives in the US, will guide the family as it accepts its first Ethiopian meal of injera, wot and kitfo. I won't have to simply describe the warmth and inviting qualities of Ethiopians. They'll get to experience it every time they walk into the kitchen, or ride up the elevator to the top floor of the Empire State Building, or as they stroll down the streets of LaSalle...all with my lovely Ethiopian guy. My family's understanding of and appreciation for Ethiopians will be even further broadened during their first trip to Ethiopia in several more months.

Striving towards the 3 goals of Peace Corps is not merely limited to 2 years of active service, at least not for me. Incorporating the 2nd and 3rd goals won't even end at the close of our two week vacation. Being of service to my global community, and fostering a better appreciation and understanding of each other is a life-long pursuit!

Here's to a very merry festive season and a HAPPY NEW YEAR (to those on the Gregorian Calendar system, that is)!!!

Until next time,

Dani

World AIDS Day: Practicing What I Preach

Hello Dear Reader,

Right around December 1st, the day the world comes together to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS, I often see messages pop up on Facebook and around the web encouraging people to get tested for HIV. Surely it is important to remind others to test, but I often wonder if those very same people test as well. Is it easy to tell someone how to think/act a certain way, yet do not take our own advice? When it comes to HIV testing, do we practice what we preach?

I can't speak for anyone but me, so I'll take this opportunity to share with you 4 reason why I choose to test regularly for HIV.

1) Not to sound cliche, but knowledge truly is power. Knowing my HIV status allows me to make wise and responsible decisions about my health and behavior so that I can stay HIV negative. Further, I can empower my sugar pie honey bunch to make decisions that are best for him (just as I am entitled to the same option).

2) I can't think of a good reason not to. If I could think of a reason, more likely than not, it would just be a lame excuse. HIV testing is relatively painless (sans the little prick on the finger...unless oral swab testing is available). Results of a 'rapid test' are available within 10 minutes...so quick that I could do it on my lunch break. It is super easy to find FREE testing services, and I surely do like the sound of that...particularly in these trying economic times (j/k).

3) Peace of mind.

4) I work in an environment that encourages routine, opt-out HIV testing and TB screening for everyone. Can I rightly continue to promote a behavior that I'm not willing to adopt? If you heard me preaching about the benefits of and responsibility to test, yet I did not do it, would you be inclined to take my advice? My passion for improving public health, for me, means that I must model the behavior that I wish to promote. In essence, I must practice what I preach.

Yesterday, on World AIDS Day, my organization and many others joined the ministry of health to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS throughout the country. A major highlight of the event was the provision of HIV testing and TB screening. Because all of the reasons I mentioned above, and to encourage my friends and family to test for HIV, I tested for HIV...and have the pictures to demonstrate how simple and easy testing can be!

Mobile HIV Testing & Counseling Unit

Preparing to test

All it takes is one simple finger prick!

Collecting a few small drops of blood...see, simple!

Waiting for my test results. HIV rapid tests can provide your results in less than 15 minutes!

Now I know my HIV status and can make responsible choices to stay HIV negative!

...and getting screened for TB can be fun too!

HIV does not care if you're gay or straight, single or married, blue or purple, rich or poor, American or African, 'good' or 'bad'. The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested.

Until next time,

Dani

Time Flies!

Hello Dear Reader,

Earlier this week, I found myself staring at a calendar, trying to plan my (almost) annual pilgrimage to the US. November 12th was the date. Something about it stuck out. Hmm...November 12... Someone's birthday? Not a holiday. A meeting I've scheduled, perhaps? Tax day? No. Maybe it's time for my dog's annual vaccination. Nope, not that either. Why is this date so meaningful? I mean, the only thing about November that stands out is Thanksgiving, and admittedly, I haven't celebrated that holiday in years (#choosesnottorememberthefood&familyI'mmissing). Wait, wait...is it my parents' anniversary? No...that's not it...but it's definitely an anniversary!

Ahh...yes! November 12th most certainly is a special day...an anniversary day! The day marks 3 years of working in/service to the Kingdom of Lesotho! Wow...I can't believe it! Time surely flies! Three years ago, I never thought that I would still be in the same country, with the same organization. Three years ago, I did not begin to imagine all of the experiences (the good with 'bad') that I'd go through to bring me to this day! If you don't mind, I'd like to take you on a walk down memory lane:

* Almost 4 months to the day that I closed my service as a Peace Corps Volunteer, I was on a plane headed to the Kingdom of Lesotho, to start my life as a (paid) public health professional.

* Many evenings meeting up with friends for dinner, drinks, movies, silly/deep/meaningful conversations.

* Lifelong friendships made.

* Many trips to visit my friends/family living in Rustenburg (my Peace Corps site).

* Weddings, funerals, babies, new jobs, house warmings, traditional ceremonies, parties, graduations.

* Make ups. Break ups.

* Overcoming my fear of running to complete my first marathon, and subsequently removing the word "can't" from my personal dictionary.

* Gazillions of Skype calls.

* Road trips all over South Africa.

* Trips to places such as Egypt and Ethiopia.

* Learning how it feels to be a grown-up: filing taxes, purchasing a car, life insurance, buying a washing machine, turning 30....

* Meeting the man I will marry and trying to join two lives/histories/cultures/expectations/dreams.

* Taking note of how my perspective on people and the world has been reshaped with each new experience.

In the past three years, I have live enough for a whole lifetime. Each and every day presents an opportunity to challenge me, change me, and serve as a catalyst for me to grow more and more into the woman I want to be. Three years ago, I certainly did not think that I'd still be here...three years later. You may be asking, "What's the plan for the next three years?" At this point, there is no solid answer other than to say that I look forward to the magic that the future holds!

Thank you to my friends, family, and you for supporting me through this journey...as I continue to live out the dreams of my 3rd grade self!

Here's to the future!

Dani

Expanded Perspectives: LaQuita (RPSV- South Africa, 2006-2008)

Hello Dear Reader,

I'm so excited to introduce a new 3rd Goal project of mine: Expanded Perspectives. Through this project, I hope to provide you with blog posts written by my friends and fellow RPCVs who have served in the Peace Corps all over the world (admittedly with a heavy leaning towards Africa). In their own words, you will get varied perspectives on life in the Peace Corps, what life can look like after the Peace Corps, and everything in between (related to the Peace Corps, of course)! I'm even trying to talk my parents into writing a post (for all of the concerned moms, dads, families and friends out there) about their experience with a child in the Peace Corps!

If you are a PC applicant, PC Invitee, PC Trainee, a current PCV, or RPCV, and would like to contribute, please feel to free contact me through the 'comments' section of this post! You're welcome to write about funny stories, anxieties about service/the application process, how PC service has made an impact on your life, or anything you can think of related to PC. *Note-Please consider your submission a generous donation, because you won't be getting paid, but then again, I don't get paid for this either!* Just remember to keep it clean, keep it fun, and keep the 3rd Goal moving!

Starting off this new venture is my dear friend, LaQuita, who served in PC South Africa (2006-2008) in a town called Klerksdorp, which is located in the Northwest Province. ***If you've looked through my little blog, you'll noticed that she is referenced throughout!***

This is the first entry in the journal LaQuita maintained during her service! Enjoy!

“What was my first day in South Africa like?”

After a 17 hour flight across the Atlantic Ocean, my descent into Johannesburg International Airport was greeted with the distinctive smell of South African air and a great degree of relief, “finally, we are HERE”. Much to my dismay, this cross continent flight was followed by a 3 hour bus ride to a rural village in Mpumalanga Province (Mpumalanga means “where the sun rises”). We arrived very late, joyously greeted by the PC training staff and a buffet of hot South African food! On a full belly, we all dragged our luggage to the rondavel.

Now, I have NEVER been camping a day in my life, so you can just about imagine the week I had filled with all kinds of bugs, no heat (the seasons in South Africa are opposite from the US, so it was Fall…and quite COLD), and unreliable water source. Early the next morning, my face was warmed by a breathtaking South African sunrise, the sweet sounds of nature, and the reality that I am in SOUTH AFRICA…and the thought, what in the WORLD have I gotten myself into?

Photo: Animal life at the PC Training Site

“My Rural Village in Mpumalanga Province”

Photo: Boekenhouthoek, Mpumalanga Peace Corps Training Village

Wednesday, August 7 marked “Doom’s Day”, just kidding, but we were definitely anxious due to the impending arrival of our host families. My mind raced with the questions, “What if they don’t like me?”, “What if my family would prefer a white volunteer?”, “How in the world am I going to adapt to living in a rural village with no indoor plumbing, a pit latrine, chamber pot, bathing and washing my hair in a bucket, and doing my laundry WITHOUT the luxuries of a washer & dryer?", “How will I communicate with my family if they cannot speak English?”

Our arrival in the village was commemorated with the slaughtering of goats and cows for a big feast! We were all adopted into our families with the unveiling of our African names. I was honored with the name “Mapule”; it means the one who comes with rain, God’s gift from the heavens. The time period also marked the end of a 2 month initiation for the young men/ and 1 month initiation for the young women in the village. The rite of passage takes place in the mountains, where the boys and girls learn everything about their culture and return as “Men and Women”. A huge celebration is hosted for each participant and everyone is adorned with traditional attire and performs traditional dances.

Photo: Ndebele Initiation

The warm welcome and genuine love expressed by my host family and the community as a whole has far surpassed my wildest imagination. We were truly treated like “celebrities” and the red carpet was rolled out for us each and every single day. It never seems to amaze me that a group of people who are living in absolute poverty by American standards are so willing to share ALL that they have with a perfect stranger, without any reciprocation. I will forever be grateful for their benevolence and will seek to emulate the kindheartedness bestowed upon me. My “family” showed me that it is the simple things in life that bring pure joy and Ubuntu (the African concept that “I am because We are”) is far more important that individual success. I am thankful for the countless hours of discussion about South African culture, the painful memories of Apartheid and their hopes and dreams for the future.

Photo: My wonderful host family

The Kingdom celebrates Peace Corps' 50th Anniversary!

Hello Dear Reader,

September has been a month of celebration! I have been fortunate enough to celebrate Peace Corps' 50th anniversary twice in one month, which nicely coincides with my 5 year anniversary of officially swearing in as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer (September 2006)!

As you are aware, I was honored to serve as a guest panelist during Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health's celebration of 50 years of Peace Corps. Panelists participating in this event represented each decade of Peace Corps service to the United States and communities around the world. Today, along with my friend Blain (RPCV Paraguay, 2004-2008), I attended another celebration hosted by Peace Corps- Lesotho. The invitation requested guests to either wear business attire or 'national dress'. Believe it or not, I have not yet purchased a seshoeshoe (a dress worn in both Lesotho amongst the Basotho and in South Africa amongst the Batswana (where I served in PC))- pronounced se-shway-shway. Instead I wore a beautiful dress representing my new home away from home- Ethiopia!


Today's celebration was well represented by dignitaries from both Lesotho and the United States, specifically His Majesty King Letsie and U.S. Ambassador Bond, respectively. The common thread woven throughout the celebratory event was the enormous contribution Peace Corps Volunteers have made in the lives of not only the communities they've served, but in their home communities as well. One of the dignitaries from Lesotho commented about his personal experience with Peace Corps. One of his former teachers was a PCV in the 1960's. The impact this 23 year old teacher made on his life has made a lasting impact...some 50 years later!

In her speech, Ambassador Bond noted that Peace Corps Volunteers show that the world is both big and small- big in that each culture/community is unique in its own way, small in that, with each difference, there are many more similarities. Further, she stated that once an individual accepts the call to service in the Peace Corps, they will forever be a Peace Corps Volunteer. Just think about it, you'll never hear someone say, "I am an ex-PCV." No, we are "Returned Peace Corps Volunteers", because we have completed our two years (or longer) of service to our PC community, but spend the rest of our lives living out the 3rd goal (see previous post on 3rd goal). We are forever connected to the Peace Corps. I am so honored to be part of this awesome fraternity!

In addition to speeches, the audience was also treated to:

Cultural performances



Music sung by currently serving PCVs, and


We were honored to witness the new batch of Lesotho PCV being sworn in by Ambassador Bond and presented with certificates by King Letsie. How cool is that?!


Something else that touched my heart was to see that RPCVs, who served in countries all over the world and are now based in Lesotho, were well represented!

I'd say that today was a great day! Wouldn't you?!

As I end this little blog post, I'll leave you with a video of President John F. Kennedy's University of Michigan speech (1960), calling students to serve their country on a mission of global peace- a speech that inspired the development of the U.S. Peace Corps.




...and at the end of every speech or gathering in Lesotho, we pray for- Khotso (Peace)! Pula (Rain)! Nala (Prosperity)!

How far would you go to serve your country? Peace Corps!

Danielle

Emory University/Peace Corps Panel Discussion Link

If you're interested in watching the live streaming of tomorrow's panel discussion from 1-3pm EST, follow this link:

http://mediasite.sph.emory.edu/RSPHMediaSite/Viewer/?peid=dd5b6a6fac3e4300935905ba40fc33fc1d

NEWS ALERT

Peace Corps Atlanta Regional Office
Contact: Steve Hunsicker
305-929-3066
shunsicker@peacecorps.gov

August 12, 2011

For Immediate Release Contact: Steve Hunsicker
305-929-3066

Emory University and Peace Corps Foster Public Health in American Communities

Thursday, September 8, Emory University and the Peace Corps will celebrate the Peace Corps 50^th Anniversary with the event, “Honoring Our Public Health Legacy, Inspiring Future Generations.” Co-sponsored by the Rollins School of Public Health and the Atlanta Area Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, the event will include a discussion with current Peace Corps Director Aaron Williams, and a panel session with key public health professionals who have served in each of the decades of Peace Corps’ history.

In a special feature of the 50th anniversary celebrations, the Peace Corps and the Rollins School of Public Health will sign a partnership agreement for the school to join the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program, a graduate school initiative—including financial aid and career-building internships—reserved especially for returned Peace Corps volunteers.

“The Peace Corps is delighted to have the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University as a partner in the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows program,” said Director Williams. “This new partnership not only opens doors to an enriching graduate school opportunity at a reduced cost, it also enables returned Peace Corps volunteers to continue their work in public service through meaningful internships in underserved American communities. Experience overseas, combined with graduate studies, position a Peace Corps Fellow well for all future endeavors.”

“We’ve piloted a Fellows program since August 2009 and witnessed great outcomes from our first group of Fellows. RPCVs add a unique perspective to leadership and service, enhance our academic programs and students' field experiences, and reinforce a culture of service that is integral to public health,” said Dr. Richard Levinson, Executive Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Rollins School of Public Health.

As part of the new program, Fellows will participate in internships serving international refugee populations in the local Atlanta community. To this end, Emory has established partnerships with various local nonprofits including Refugee Family Services, Lutheran Services of Georgia, Clarkston Development Foundation, Fugees Family, Global Village School and Refugee Resettlement & Immigration Services of Atlanta (RRISA).

About Emory University

Emory University, founded in 1836, has become a major national teaching, research and service center with a total enrollment exceeding 12, 930 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. The school ranks among the 15 universities with the largest endowments and is one of the fastest growing research universities in the country. The Rollins School of Public Health is 20 years old, and Emory has offered degrees in public health for 34 years.

About the Peace Corps:

President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Throughout 2011, Peace Corps is commemorating 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world. Historically, more than 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 host countries. Today, 8,655 volunteers are working with local communities in 76 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment. Visitwww.peacecorps.gov for more information.

About the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program

The Coverdell Fellows Program, formerly known as Fellows/USA, started in 1985 at Teachers College, Columbia University and now includes more than 60 participating universities in 30 states and the District of Columbia. The program is specifically reserved for students who have already completed their tenure abroad with the Peace Corps. More details can be found at peacecorps.gov/fellows.

About the Peace Corps’ Third Goal

The Peace Corps’ third goal, articulated by President John F. Kennedy, aims "to help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans." This goal is realized primarily through the efforts of the more than 200,000 returned volunteers who share their stories and experiences with their fellow Americans. Within the Peace Corps, the Office of Public Engagement works to promote the agency’s third goal through: Coverdell World Wise Schools, an initiative which develops free teaching and learning resources—based on volunteers’ experiences—for K-12 classrooms; Returned Volunteer Services, which facilitates returned volunteers’ transitions back to the United States; and the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program, which partners with graduate schools across the country to provide returned volunteers with scholarships and career-building internships in underserved American communities. For more information, visitpeacecorps.gov/engage.

For additional information, contact:

Tarvis E. Thompson, Communications Manager
Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
O: 404.727.3516
M: 404.693.4766
tthomp8@emory.edu

Peace Corps 50th Anniversary: "Honoring Our Public Health Legacy, Inspiring Future Generations"

Hello Dear Reader,

I'm excited to announce that Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health, in honor and celebration of Peace Corps' 50th Anniversary, is facilitating a panel discussion entitled:

"Peace Corps 50th Anniversary: Honoring Our Public Health Legacy,
Inspiring Future Generations"

Thursday, September 8th
13:00 to 14:35 (1pm to 2:23pm EST)

...and guess what?? I've been asked to serve as a panelist to speak about my Peace Corps service and my work in international public health! Too bad I won't be there in person, but I'll be Skyped in (just one more reason I looooove Skype)!

Here's a description of the event:

This event exemplifies the legacy of Peace Corps partnerships and the impact that the Peace Corps has made on global health through the eyes of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers who have made their careers in public health.

The event also marks Peace Corps’ commitment to the future and demonstrates the importance of ongoing partnerships with a signing ceremony to recognize the Rollins School of Public Health Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Fellows Program.

RPCVs representing the five decades of Peace Corps service and public health organizations including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Carter Center, and the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University will address the following topics:

1960's - Laying the Foundation – Kathy Parker

1970's - Responding to the Call – Deborah McFarland

1980's - The impact of Peace Corps on a Career in Public Health – Stephen Dorage

1990's - Partnerships – Kelly Callahan

2000's - Shaping One's Perspective – Danielle Morris

Remarks will be provided by Peace Corps Director Mr. Aaron Williams (RPCV- Dominican Republic, 1967-1970), and Georgia State Senator Mr. Jason Carter (of the Jimmy Carter- Carters) who served as a PCV in South Africa from 1998 to 2001!

The event is being co-sponsored by Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health and the Atlanta Area Returned Peace Corps Volunteers.

Pretty cool, huh? Yeah, I agree!

For more details, contact Emory University.

Wish me luck kids!

Dani