Staging

So, after weeks of preparation, I have arrived at the Peace Corps Staging event, which is basically an orientation where we submit paperwork, take care of student loan deferments, learn about more PC expectations for us, and reflect on our motivation, aspirations, and anxieties concerning our decision to join the PC. There are only 24 other volunteers at the staging event, which makes it easy to get to know people and create a sense of community. All of us are working in Special Education or Youth and Community Development. We also learned of our newly promoted status as PC trainees, meaning we are no longer mere invitees. Our cohort is called EC81, meaning we are the 81st group to be assigned to the Eastern Caribbean, which is composed of St. Lucia, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent. It's 55 degrees here in Miami, still balmy considering where I came from.

Union Square, NYC 2/10/10

I miss many things already, like the 67th St. library, extensive public transportation, small cafes, Central Park, etc. However, I'm excited about finally going to St. Lucia and meeting the EC PC staff and volunteers :) I'll update as soon as I can. Until then, take care.

Last Supper in the US with some EC81 volunteers

Waiting for check-in for our flight to St. Lucia at 6:00am with a half ton of luggage...priceless