The End of the World as We Know It

May 21^st, 2011: Judgment Day, Armageddon, and more importantly, Graduation. This past Saturday marked the end of my four years of college! Even though the world did not end, for many of us it did as we said goodbye to our beloved Fordham University. For me, it was an especially tearful farewell as I had to say a somewhat more permanent ‘au revoir’ to the friends and home I had made over the past four years. While I am more than excited for my adventures that lie ahead (ten days till I depart!), it was a bittersweet moment. I cannot thank my friends enough for the amazing memories we share: ones that will definitely keep me sane while in Mali. So, while I may be far, far away on my adventure in Africa, I will be thinking of everyone at home!


Much Love and Peace to All

The Coveted Blue Envelope

Nine months after the submission of the application, I finally received the coveted blue envelope: my invitation to serve in the Peace Corps.  I accepted the news with a mess of emotions. After the initial shock wore off, I was hit with excitement, relief, nervousness, and fear. Most of all, I feel lucky to have been given this opportunity. This is a once in a lifetime chance to challenge everything I know and am comfortable with “to make a real difference in the lives of real people.”

I really have to thank my mother for reviving in me the idea of serving in the Peace Corps. I have always harbored the idea and known that a career in service and international development was what I wanted to pursue, but it wasn’t until she mentioned it last summer that my passion was reawakened.

Now that I have accepted the invitation, it’s back to reality: a reality that, for the moment, I am going to cherish and enjoy every second of because in a few short months my comfortable little life will be turned upside down.  Only 2 1/2 months till graduation!!