things i wish someone had told me before i did my peace corps service…

1. you probably won’t change the system, and that’s ok. changing one person’s life is a successful service, and you will change someone’s life.

2. some days you will sincerely want to throw in the towel and go home even if you’re the most dedicated volunteer in the world. you’ll push through them.

3. the country will change you as much if not more than you’ll change it.

4. you never pack exactly what you need. thoughtful people can send you those necessities you forgot.

5. you will be tired often. functioning entirely in another language is emotional and physically draining. don’t push yourself too hard…but enjoy the exhaustion of working in the unique conditions of peace corps.

I just finished my service in Ukraine…obviously far different than Namibia, but I have a friend serving a third year in Namibia. I’d love to answer any questions and connect you two for questions to her as well. Congrats on the nomination.