I've always thought it sounded interesting and like a really great organization. I would always wonder if it was something I was capable of doing, but never took it very seriously. Until a few years ago when I had a professor who was in it when he was younger and he always talked about it in lectures. I had a one-on-one conversation about it with him and he really opened up my eyes. After that I started really looking into it. Last summer I realized that I needed to decide what it was I was going to do with my life after I graduated in May. Should I go to grad school? Should I get a job? ..or should I join the Peace Corps and do those things when I return? Having never lived far away from home very long, I was concerned I wouldn't be able to do it, but then I went to Finland. Studying away in Oulu last fall was definitely one of the best decisions I've ever made. Having arrived there at the beginning of September 2012, I had the confidence to turn in my Peace Corps application towards the end of that same month. I had only been away from home for a few weeks, but it was long enough for me to realize that it was in fact something I was capable of doing. So began my very long application process...
TIMELINE
- Sept 2012-turned in application
- Nov 2012-interview via skype
- Dec 2012-interview via phone & nomination
- Jan 2013-turned in fingerprints and legal documents
- March 2013-legally cleared
- May 2013-answered final questions via e-mail
- June 2013-RECEIVED INVITATION!!! and accepted it! :D
- Summer 2013-doctor, dentist, vaccinations, visa, etc etc
I am soooo very excited for this next stage in my life! Of course I am nervous and going to miss everyone like crazy, but it's going to be an awesome 27 months and I can't wait :)
