The process

Following is a bit of what I have learned about the process.

The Peace Corps application process is just that- a process. Not only is there an application, but essays, references, health questionnaires, interviews, fingerprints, background checks, medical evaluations, and more. You must wait wait wait and wait some more. Don't forget about patience, that comes in handy from day 1. If you are sure that this is something you want to do, go for it. Do not give up. Prepare yourself and BE FLEXIBLE. You may not get to go where you want or even where you are told you will go. Everything can change, so flexibility and patience are imperative.

You will receive different labels which indicate your progress through the process:

1. Applicant - After many hours spent on the application, you will be proud to call yourself an applicant.

2. Nominee- After you have met with a recruiter, usually a RPCV (Returned Peace Corps Volunteer) [get used to acronyms!] and have been selected for a specific program. This is the longest stage as you must WAIT after being nominated for your medical evaluation. The medical process takes time and money. Once you receive word from your recruiter, you will be proud to call yourself a nominee.

3. Trainee (PCT) -  After receiving an invitation (!) and accepting your assignment, you will be given 4-6 weeks to wrap up your life in America and embark on your journey. For the first three months of service, you will be in training. You will live with a host family (your host family will not speak English) while you receive cultural, language, safety and technical training.  You will be proud to be a trainee.

4. Volunteer (PCV)- If you make it through training, you will 'graduate' to volunteer status. Another proud moment... finally after months of planning and waiting. Get ready to begin "the toughest job you will ever love". While being away from friends, family and modern conveniences, you will have the adventure of a lifetime. There will be good days and bad days, but most of the time you will be proud to be a volunteer.

5. Returned Volunteer (RPCV) - Wow, after 27 months of service, traveling, meeting new people, learning a new language, getting involved and making a difference, it is time to come home. You will forever be labeled a RPCV. After service there are so many opportunities open to you. Get ready to talk about your experience!  This is when the pride beams brightest.

Good luck!