Peace Corps Process Update

I have received my Medical Review packet, read the paperwork twice and have set up the appointments necessary to complete this step in the Peace Corps process.

The Peace Corps does not skimp on information gathering and I can tell that this endeavor may be a doozie.

Basic information requested by the PC include a complete physical (involving lab and blood work) and dental evaluation. Other information may be requested depending on the applicant. An example would be an eye evaluation because the prospective volunteer wears glasses, which I do on occasion.

I hope to have all my appointments and paperwork completed by March 18. Until then, I will be working at the Nome pool (part time) and for Kawerak (full time), not to mention Iditarod starts this week!

p.s. I added a new link in the Greenie section entitled Enviroblog.

My Biggest PC Fear - Revisited

I have switched my biggest Peace Corps' fear to contracting a tapeworm.

After reading Lonely Planet's Volunteer: A Traveler's Guide To Making A Difference Around the World, I realized I may encounter many different parasites, viruses, bugs and ickies. Being the scaredy pants that I am, I have embarked on a mission to read as much about tapeworms as I can to:
1. Prevent;
2. Treat; and
3. Finish my freaking out before I leave.

After reviewing the MayoClinic's online article regarding Tapeworm Infection, I have come to the conclusion that I either already have a tapeworm or I cannot ensure I will not contract a tapeworm.

The good news, tapeworms are normally harmless and do not pose too much of a risk. The bad new, I may have a freeloader or two in my body for at maximum 20 years.

Oh well, good thing I have a couple of months to get used to the idea of having a pet tapeworm.

What To Do?

So, what does a PC Volunteer do?

There are seven broad areas for service:

1. Education, Youth Outreach & Community Development
2.Business Development
3. Environment
4. Agriculture
5. Health
6. AIDS/HIV
7. Information Technology

My preference would be to serve in the area of Business Development, specifically Nongovernmental Organization Development; however, my actual service area will be picked by the University of Alaska Fairbank's Rural Development department and will complement my educational goals within my master's program.