Anticipation

Mirë se vini (welcome) to my blog! I owe a sincere thank you to all my incredible family and friends for encouraging me to pursue my life’s goal of serving as a Peace Corps volunteer. There have been instances where I questioned the feasibility of taking 27 months off of my career path to volunteer or worried about leaving those I love for such a duration. Fortunately, steadfast encouragement and inspiration from family and friends have solidified my passion of service, learning, and opportunity.

As you know, I will embark on a highly anticipated journey to Albania (Shqipëria) in one month. I am excited to endure all the challenges, opportunities, and experiences that await me. When I first started dreaming of the Peace Corps, I had the unrealistic idea that by serving I would be able to change the world. I have grown up a bit since those high school day dreams and now approach my impending service as a chance to experience small successes. I feel lucky to be pursing this experience as part of my graduate education and I fully intend to utilize the academic lessons, personal experiences, and high self-standards to be the best I can personally be in my role as a Community Health Educator.

I came across the definition for “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” - atoning for educability through delicate beauty. I feel this definition is applicable to experiences I will have in Peace Corps. Of the returned volunteers I have encountered, they all say their service was one of the best experiences of their lives. It is anticipated I will conclude my 27 months by having learned valuable lessons from many delicate and beautiful interactions, experiences, and challenges. Finally, this song describes the power of a word. In this sense, it is through my attempt at a blog that I will be able to capture my life-long goal and keep you all up to date on the notable happenings along this journey. Your influence has greatly contributed to the work I will be doing and I am eager to share these moments with you (as well as perhaps entice you to take a well-needed vacation to Albania).