A little bit about me...

Hi my name is Raechelle, and I lived in the secular Muslim country of Azerbaijan as a Youth Development Volunteer for the Peace Corps for three years and three months. I am now the Administrator of the official Returned Peace Corps Volunteers Friends of Azerbaijan group. As such, I am working to promote Peace Corps third goal of helping promote a better understanding of Azerbaijani people to Americans.

I created this blog as a way for future Peace Corps Volunteers, my friends and family, and Americans in general to understand what life as a Peace Corps Volunteer is like. As part of the pilot program for Youth Development in Azerbaijan, my work in Azerbaijan was diverse to say the least. I took on a role as youth educator, mentor and promoter. I helped with academic advising, established informal youth service clubs, encouraged youth to be proactive in their communities, promoted volunteer-ism and making a positive contribution to their communities.

I served as an extended volunteer, meaning that I served a third year instead of the traditional two year and three month service. During that time, I got married to my community counterpart and embraced many parts of the Azerbaijani culture. It is my hope to provide you a sense of understanding of life as a Peace Corps volunteer, life in Azerbaijan, and a bit about Azerbaijani culture through my experiences. Please feel free to comment or email me if you have any questions or suggestions for topics you'd like to hear more about.

Saturday, September 8, 2007

Peace Corps Volunteer To Be!


This week was challenging and bitter sweet. I finally said goodbye to the kids from my english conversation club as we held our finally meeting. (That's them above, posted with their consent and knowledge). We had a tough week with policy and language tests, packing, and preparing to move to our final sites. It's sad knowing I will leave behind all the friends I've already made as I head out to my new town... I will fortunately still have site mates, but sadly one less than what was anticipated. One of my friends chose to go home due to personal reasons this week, and I miss her very much. (I wish you the best of luck wherever life takes you hun!!) I swear in on Wednesday, and will spend the last part of the week traveling to my permanent site.
I have posted my new address on the side of the page, so if you would like to send me letters I would be greatful to have them! I will do my best to keep you all updated as soon as I find a reliable internet cafe at my site. I miss you all, and I'm doing great. Please continue to pray for my safety and success in my site! So the journey begins...
"And now Harry let us persue that flighty temptress, adventure!"
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