1.22.2018 Chesapeake, Virginia
One week from today I report to Peace Corps Staging, a day of registration and orientation in Washington D.C. before I and other Peace Corps Volunteers in my cohort board the flight to Ghana. It’s hard to believe that this experience is finally happening, especially considering there was a period where it looked like everything I had dreamed and worked towards might be for nothing. Getting medically cleared for Peace Corps turned out to be a long and intensive process. However, I am proud to say that after not getting cleared the first time and being told I wouldn’t be going to the Peace Corps, I appealed the decision and won. While this clearance process was not easy, I am thankful to the Peace Corps for their commitment and diligence to ensure their volunteers are fit to serve and able to access appropriate medical care. I believe everything happens for a reason. I can say that going through this process has removed the doubt and fears I had before and made me more certain than ever that this is where I am supposed to be.
Preparing for two years outside the U.S. comes with a long to-do list, which includes both the important logistical things such as finances and shopping, but also the equally important personal experiences like spending time with loved ones and eating all my favorite foods (Honestly, not sure what I will do without Chick-fil-A). Fortunately, Virginia’s inability to handle snow has allowed me to have lots of quality time at home. I’ve got my bags mostly packed (and yay they’re only a little overweight), registered for my absentee ballot, taken care of those dreaded student loan payments, and now I’m all set to go. I am so excited to get out in the world, meet new people, and put my degree to use. I’d like to think I have a good understanding of what’s in store for me, but honestly I’m just going in with no expectations and a plan to take it day by day.
With love,
Catriona
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