The Reason Why and a Timeline

Growing up in the former Soviet Union (now Kazakhstan), I witnessed first hand, the hardship placed on the people in adjusting to a post-communist system. I am very fortunate, being a United States citizen (since I was nine), to enjoy the freedoms and privileges associated with this country and I never took such status for granted.
Thus, it was my goal in life to give back to the people that were not as lucky as me, who had and still have to face the hard reality of life in a modern capitalistic system. I can now say with great pleasure, that I will be doing exactly that in Bulgaria with Peace Corps.

Why Now?

After graduating from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Finance and entering the 'real world' where the "Great Recession" rules everything we do, I figured that now would be the best time for me to act and help those truly in need.


I've decided to post this time line as a suggestion to those applying. The time frame varies for everyone, depending on applicant skills, country needs, medical/dental clearance, personal choices, etc. There is lots of information about the application process on www.peacecorps.org. You can also check the Peace Corps Wiki as a useful resource if you’re just starting out and want to get a volunteer’s perspective on things.


October 23, 2008 – I began my Peace Corps Application.
April  3, 2009 – I completed my application. All of my reference letters are submitted. 
April 14, 2009 – PC recruiter calls me to schedule an interview.
May 5, 2009 – I interview with the recruiter at the New York location
May 11, 2009 - I pause my application in order to take the GMAT examination. Based on the score I wanted to know whether I should do the Peace Corps Masters International Program.
September 15, 2009 - After taking the GMAT examination I decided it would be best for me to pursue the regular program. I reactivate my application.
October 2, 2009 – The recruiter informs me that there are no current Business Advising programs available for which I am qualified. I change my plans and pursue the education program.
January 12, 2010 – I get a message from the recruiter that I have been nominated for Eastern Europe/ Caucasus Region for Educational program.
January 17, 2010 - Receive nomination in the mail 
February 2, 2010 – I receive Medical Review Package in the mail.
February 9, 2010 – After 3 doctor’s appointments, 2 trips to the dentist, I finally complete and mail my Medical Review package and send it in.
February 19, 2010 – Peace Corps receives my Medical review packet
February 27, 2010 - I am dentally cleared for Peace Corps service.
March 1, 2010 –Receive a hold on my Medical clearance regarding TB vaccination. After visiting my doctor one final time, I send back the documents.
March 9, 2010 - I am medically cleared for Peace Corps service. 
March 16, 2010 – My Placement Officer calls me on the phone. She and I talk for about 20 minutes about my commitment to service.
March 18, 2010 – According to the Peace Corps Toolkit I have been invited to serve.
March 19, 2010 – I receive my Peace Corps Invitation Kit via FedEx. I’ve been invited to Bulgaria! I’m going to work Teaching English, with Staging on May 10th.
March 22, 2010 – I email the PC Office to accept my invitation to the Peace Corps.
March 24, 2010 – I mail my passport and visa applications to the Travel Desk.
March 27, 2010 – I complete and mail my updated Resumé and Aspiration Statement.

Please Join me on my Journey to Bulgaria!