Let me make this clear. I don't believe in simplistic save-the-world nonsense. I did not choose the Peace Corps because I wanted to save 'poor' Africa. Africa is a thriving continent made up of over 50 countries. It has been one of the most mistreated, underdeveloped areas in the world. It also houses vibrant cultures, the origin of mankind and resilient people of all colors who have overcome the unimaginable.
Right; so I have this little inkling that every human in this world deserves a set of basic rights and then some, but that can be discussed another time. To set the mode of understanding, let me share with you the 3 goals of the Peace Corps mission statement, taken from their web site:
1. Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women
2. Helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the people served
3. Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of the Americans
Note the last two points. There will be no big transformation because one little white girl has planted herself in the heart of Africa with a small, gov't-backed program. Trust me, I do want to make an impact and I will strive to do my best while out there. But to face the blatant truth: this experience is about me.
This is me going out there to engulf myself in another culture. This is to learning a language and traveling the world on U.S. gov't budget. Thank you fellow tax-payers. This is to a cutting edge career in diverse environments with extensive field experience. This is networking so I will have the connections necessary to reach my goals. This is my desire to meet amazing individuals who are adventurous, curious and passionate. This is securing a good graduate school. This is my personality which loves a challenge. This is my selfish broadcast for the world to meet me. This is me wanting free rent for two years.
Right; so I have this little inkling that every human in this world deserves a set of basic rights and then some, but that can be discussed another time. To set the mode of understanding, let me share with you the 3 goals of the Peace Corps mission statement, taken from their web site:
1. Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women
2. Helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the people served
3. Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of the Americans
Note the last two points. There will be no big transformation because one little white girl has planted herself in the heart of Africa with a small, gov't-backed program. Trust me, I do want to make an impact and I will strive to do my best while out there. But to face the blatant truth: this experience is about me.
This is me going out there to engulf myself in another culture. This is to learning a language and traveling the world on U.S. gov't budget. Thank you fellow tax-payers. This is to a cutting edge career in diverse environments with extensive field experience. This is networking so I will have the connections necessary to reach my goals. This is my desire to meet amazing individuals who are adventurous, curious and passionate. This is securing a good graduate school. This is my personality which loves a challenge. This is my selfish broadcast for the world to meet me. This is me wanting free rent for two years.
