I realize I haven't mentioned the Peace Corps in a while. Well that's right, you may have guessed it... NO UPDATE YET. Ha, I'm very used to this waiting game by now (I applied last April and have been Nominated since July) but that doesn't make it any less frustrating. See, I'm an extremely analytical person. Literally, I'm the always-thinking-and-questioning-everything-in-my-head type of girl. I've learned to embrace this, though I've been known to drive myself crazy sometimes. Anyway, this personality trait doesn't really handle the Peace Corps waiting situation very well. Don't get me wrong, I'm still 100% in my desire to go.. it's more of the diminishing belief I'll actually be invited. It's really my own insecurity and self-defeating mindset that I'm finding myself in these days. I'm trying to stay positive, I really am, but it's not easy when I haven't heard anything since the first week in November. Well, that's a lie, I've emailed them twice since and been told I'm right on track. But still. I'm losing it.
It also doesn't help that I don't have a full-time job, HATE living at home, can't have a real relationship because of my (hopeful) impending departure, and am generally living in a horrible limbo state. It's really starting to get to me, especially with most of my friends settled into jobs or school, and basically getting into a normal 'after college' life groove. I just need to leave. Tomorrow. Or at least know if I actually am leaving.
Please tell me there are other nominees with departure dates in June that haven't been invited yet..?
I was nominated April 2009. The wait has been forever (I decided to do Master's International at Emory) and now there's only, like, a month? left before I know. The first year and a half was fine. This last month, though? Killing meeeee.
ReplyDeleteAnd my departure date is July, but I have heard of other June ones who don't have their invite yet.
"limbo state" that's how often describe this situation. you are right it's the not knowing that's a patience tester. just last night i was thinking i would be fine (not happy) if they told me "here's your invite but you're not leaving until december". sure it's far off but at least i could plan life with concrete information. waiting is our lot as pc applicants.
ReplyDeleteDarlin', there is a slew of people who understand completely what you are going through and share the same emotions. I was nominated in April 2010. I still do not know where and when I am going and like you, I am living with my BFF working a few part time gigs but I am also miserable. To have a masters degree and just be chilling like this makes me fill useless and wasteful. Good luck girl and in the word of the Peace Corps, stay patient!!!
ReplyDeletePatience is the challenge.
ReplyDeletePMA (positive mental attitude) is the answer.
If another perspective will help, I'll share my experience - - -
I decided to join the Peace Corps when I was an undergrad. That was back when President Kennedy started the Peace Corps (!). Then, life got in the way; I went to grad school, got married, went to post-grad school, raised two children and generally had a wonderfully rewarding and varied career. Now, I am back on track toward my original goal of serving in the Peace Corps. Applied May 2010.
Nominated in June for Jan/Feb/Mar 2011.
Medically cleared November.
I am waiting.
Best wishes to you.
It does suck having to wait so long, especially because it feels like you are putting your life on hold for the prospect of the PC. I haven't been waiting too long, I was nominated in November '10. I have it easy compared to you. Although I will say if I had to wait as long as you I would have just said screw it and done something different. That's a long time to wait but if it's something you really want to do then wait. I believe there are plenty of other opportunities out there to travel and do development work so if you have to wait much longer or if you want to explore other options know that there are some out there.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I find it funny I am in the exact same position as you. I am living at home, moved back since graduating college in TN 2 years (or so) ago, working full time, and I also can't really commit to any relationships either as I'm planning on going into the PC. Well I wish you the best of luck and hope that you hear soon. Do what you love at home as much as you can before you leave. Never stop doing that no matter if your waiting or not. Good luck!