So----- I've been reading a ton of information that was sent yesterday. The following are things I find really interesting.
First: I was prepared for very primitive living. That is the stereotypical image of serving in the Peace Corps, right? I knew from reading blogs from Peace Corps workers in Thailand, that some of them call themselves "Posh Corps" vs. Peace Corps. I now know this is true. In the reading material I've been given, I know that I will probably have my own apartment, with electricity and indoor plumbing, and (maybe) air conditioning! That is POSH Living! Am I a bad person for being kind of excited about this?
Second: I knew that as a Peace Corps Volunteer, I would get paid whatever is the living wage in the country where I am placed. The concept is that I will be living at the "same level" as my indigenous co-workers. So, guess what my monthly salary will be? Guess! Would you believe the living wage to cover all living expenses, rent, utilities, food, transportation, cell phone, etc--------is $240. Per month! Does that make anyone other than me re-evaluate our American lifestyles? Think about it--$240 covers all living expenses. Wow.
Third: The first three months are considered "pre-service" training. I will be living with a host family, attending language classes, and working on integrating into the culture. At the end of the three months, I will be interviewed, and tested, and evaluated. If I fail to play well with others, demonstrate an inability to be flexible, don't grasp the language, etc-----I will fail to "qualify for service" and they can send me home! If I pass all the above, then I will be "sworn in" as a Peace Corps Volunteer and will move to my post and begin my work. Let's just say I'll be working my fanny off so I qualify....
Whew.....this is a lot of work!!
This is a test--if you are a subscriber, please let me know if this comes directly to your email or not.
did not arrive in email
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