Peace Corps?

[Bakiryu]

Hello!

Anyone else is joining or has been in the peace corps here? (or just thinking about it?)


http://www.peacecorps.gov/

[motherhubbard]

Baki, I think it's a great idea. Have you looked into americorps? you can stay in your town or travel and get money for school. I would incourage anyone to sign up! http://www.americorps.org/

edit- and the medical benefits are great!

[pussnboots]

I would think it's a great opportunity. Go for it if you are interested.

[EricP]

I was in the Peace Corps up until January of this year. It's a very good program, but even within a single country different volunteers have very different experiences.

My personal experience as a TEFL teacher in a small village in Azerbaijan was not a good one, but I know that many volunteers--even some only an hour away from my village--were very satisfied with their service. I did not adjust to the new environment very well: I lost 54 lbs in six months because I hated the food, and I was sick much of the time I was there. I was also bitten by two dogs within the course of one week. I didn't like my host family, either, which makes the culture shock experienced much worse.

I'm not trying to discourage you from giving it a try...I just wanted to tell you a little about my impressions of my service. You'll never know if it's for you unless you give it a try! :)

[motherhubbard]

Eric, It still sounds like one heck of an experience. I'm sure you gained more than bad memories. I'm glad that you offered a down side. I'm one of those who is often suprised by the down side.

So Baki, What 'cha thinkin'