As many Peace Corps applicants know it is a slow and steady process to get an invitation to the Peace Corps. It has been a busy couple of months for me, which has helped keep my mind off the fact that I hadn’t heard anything for quite a while. I sent in my medical packet at the beginning of April. They received and put my file into the system by April 27, and then the waiting game began. May came and went, and before I knew it was half way through June. I was working hard, going to weddings, taking trips, and keeping myself busy, so I wasn’t too concerned I hadn’t heard anything. But the end of June was approaching quickly and I ran out of patience and activities to distract me.
I called the nurse reviewing my file and asked if I had missed anything or where my file was at. To my surprise she said I was at the top of her roster and she was going to be looking at it tomorrow. From there I had a few more random things to take care of (like a Polio Booster after the age of 18…) and some medical records that were missing, and suddenly I was cleared medically! It seemed like I waited, waited some more, and then waited, and finally out of no where got the stamp of approval. Seriously a moment to celebrate!
At the same time, right before receiving medical clearance I was contacted by the Placement Office. As many applicants know “due to federal budget cuts…” there aren’t as many assignments available. The placement office was inquiring if I wanted to keep my application active and continue with the process, considering I might not get a placement until 2012. My answer — YES, I haven’t worked this hard and thought about it this much to just say never mind. At that point I sent them an updated resume and a letter expressing my sincere interest in serving.
As of right now I have been told all placements for 2011 are filled (though hold onto hope that something changes). They are reviewing my file for suitability, and I have a phone interview Thursday. I am very excited for what the future holds, and will continue the waiting game and practice the virtue of patience. Good things come to those who wait — I just hope that is true.
