Growing up, I had never been positive about what I wanted to do with my life or what my calling might be. I had always been obsessed with travel and cultures but I never knew how I could translate this into a career. This all changed in July of 2005 when I was able to participate in aid work in various villages in Uganda. While working there, I was filled with a kind of satisfaction that I would have never associated with a job and something inside of me clicked. I think Oprah calls it an "Aha Moment." Whatever it's called, from that moment I decided that I wanted to be involved in work that affects the lives of people in positive ways.
I am currently enrolled at the Medical University of South Carolina receiving a master's in health administration and am at a crucial crossroads in my life. I have the opportunity to go the corporate route, make a substantial salary, and dread waking up every morning or volunteer my services to people in need, make next to nothing in a strange land, and go to sleep every night with a smile on my face. Through deep thought and analysis, I have come to the conclusion that I would much rather be happy. I believe the Peace Corps will provide me with the opportunity to enact change in the lives of populations less fortunate than myself and allow me to gather the experience necessary to continue this work in my future endeavors.
The only challenge I really feel I will face concerning the Peace Corps 10 Core expectations is the preparation of my personal life for a 27 month commitment. The reason I find this a bit challenging is because I have some personal relationships that will be missed (i.e. girlfriend, dog, and family). As much as I will miss them, I know that this is the right step that needs to be taken in order to achieve my long-term goals. After speaking with former volunteers, family, and friends, I am confident in my decision to serve with the Peace Corps.
I am currently enrolled at the Medical University of South Carolina receiving a master's in health administration and am at a crucial crossroads in my life. I have the opportunity to go the corporate route, make a substantial salary, and dread waking up every morning or volunteer my services to people in need, make next to nothing in a strange land, and go to sleep every night with a smile on my face. Through deep thought and analysis, I have come to the conclusion that I would much rather be happy. I believe the Peace Corps will provide me with the opportunity to enact change in the lives of populations less fortunate than myself and allow me to gather the experience necessary to continue this work in my future endeavors.
The only challenge I really feel I will face concerning the Peace Corps 10 Core expectations is the preparation of my personal life for a 27 month commitment. The reason I find this a bit challenging is because I have some personal relationships that will be missed (i.e. girlfriend, dog, and family). As much as I will miss them, I know that this is the right step that needs to be taken in order to achieve my long-term goals. After speaking with former volunteers, family, and friends, I am confident in my decision to serve with the Peace Corps.
