Well its quite obvious that the Peace Corps is challenging mentally, physically, emotionally, economically/financially, spiritually, and any/all other ways possible. But it doesnt just start becoming challenging once you step off the plane. No, in fact it starts at home, from the beginning, when you make the decision to pursue volunteering with the Peace Corps for 2 years. It starts with the application and the realization of what you are doing, or going to do, what you are sacrificing, albeit for a great reason, to pursue this challenging, and life changing experience.
The latest challenge, that spurred this flood of thoughts, is packing--Packing everything I need, or think I need, into just 80 lbs. Well that and the realization that Im actually leaving in two weeks! Holy CRAP! Of course, if snow doesnt prevent me from taking off, that is. Anyways, I was talking with my mom today about all the seemingly random items I have packed and how much of that I will actually end up needing. I asked her what she thought I would actually use, what would go to waste, and what, if anything, I would write to her saying I needed instead. Hopefully I use everything I bring, and havent forgotten anything.
My question is this: What do you think my biggest challenge will be? Whether its adjusting to the food, getting used to not having as many options for pretty much everything, or being homesick. Please share what you think the biggest challenge will be in a comment at the end of this post!
I dunno, I've heard that typhoid fever is pretty challenging...
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I think based on everything that you've experienced so far, your biggest challenge is gonna be interacting with the Peace Corps!
I'd have to say homesickness. I'm not sure how often you'll be able to talk to people back home or at least interact with them on the internet. It's not too hard to get used to less-than-ideal living conditions, but it can be hard cutting yourself off from everyone. Two months was hard enough for me.
ReplyDeleteLeaving me!! Especially in this terrible dilemma. :(
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Hmm, personally, one of my biggest concerns would be being alone. You are basically going to be going to be placed into "a whole new world" by yourself. I would be really overwhelmed and worried. I think once you make friends and contacts and get involved in your work, it will be a lot easier, but in the beginning, it may be hard to fill your free time.
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