Peace Corps advice?

Question

I am seriously considering applying to join the Peace Corps, I understand this is a very serious decision and should not be taken lightly. I'm wondering if anyone who has actually BEEN in the peace corps could give me a few thoughts and details about their own experience.

Answer 1

Begin with the LINK listed below. Also go to the Peace Corps main office and ask for names of "ex-volunteers". Then write to them.

Answer 2

Having great grades, a positive attitude, and community service helps alot!!!

Answer 3

Use Google to find the nearest chapter of RPCV and a member would be happy to talk to you.

Also, go to google and search for

PeaceCorps blogs

You will get a list of places to find blogs written by former and current peace corps.

Visit the PeaceCorps web site as well -- it has detailed information.

Answer 4

Thoughts.  Let's see:

a)  wouldn't trade my experience(s) for anything.  There is often a sense of accomplishment for tasks which would seem simple...but good Lord, without some things we take for granted, sometimes safe drinking water is a challenge.  Coming back home (to the US)...a little eye-opening.  The world goes by so quickly when you don't keep track.

b)  matured really fast.  REALLY fast.  Learned a bunch about who I was...and who I wanted to be.  Gained some self-confidence.  Learned to make friends fast.  Learned how to try not to upset others when we can't communicate well.

c)  there were times it was really frustrating.  People have different viewpoints...different things that are important to them.  History...much more so than here.  And hatred of people they don't know for what seem like really stupid reasons.  And people who just want to flex the little "power" they have.

d)  you really need to be able to speak a foreign language:  Spanish or French, usually.  If you can't, don't throw in the towel, but your chance of selection isn't as great.

e)  when you decide it's time to hit "the real world" (or someone suggests it to you) ... you're amazed at what people here think is important.  Sometimes I laugh and wonder how somebody would have survived or lived in other environs.

f)  there's a chance, during your slack time, to visit other places...that are a pain in the a$$ to get to otherwise.

I'd do it again in a heartbeat.