Today I went to an event put on by Career Services called “International Careers in the Government Roundtable.” One of the government agencies represented was the Peace Corps. I want to blog about the Peace Corps not only because it is one of my personal goals to serve in it, but because I know that many of you in the LCE LLC would be great Peace Corps volunteers!
Most of you have probably heard of it, but just for a refresher, Peace Corps is committed to assisting developing countries by stationing volunteers to educate people, provide health care, and develop business, among other tasks. Another great goal of Peace Corps is that they aim to help people all over the world better understand Americans while also helping Americans better understand other peoples and cultures.
I talked to a Peace Corps representative named Scott Kumis; he got his master degree in Law and after five years of practicing, he decided to join Peace Corps with his wife. They were both stationed in the Philippines where they taught children and locals on topics such as basic computer skills, music, and leadership. They even learned many things from the local people such as traditional dances. They filled their free time by volunteering for projects such as Habitat for Humanity or exploring the country by hiking and scuba diving.
I think that it takes real leadership and initiative to leave behind the comforts we have here in the US to travel to somewhere that needs serious help. I see leaders in everyone here (we are Leadership and Community Engagement of course!), and I encourage you to look into a possible future with the Peace Corps.
If you are interested in PC or even just like travelling, you should take a look at the website “Peace Corps Journals” which is a collection of blogs of volunteers stationed all around the world!
November 5th, 2012 at 10:40 am
I believe this is a form of leadership; however, I believe the real leaders in this Peace Corps are the people in the back that organize everything for the volunteers to do. Also, I as future attorney, I don’t understand what it is that made Mr. Kumis stop practicing law. I feel that can do more for the largest amount of people depending on what he did for a living. I feel the Peace Corps is a valuable option, but not for me.
November 5th, 2012 at 1:17 pm
One of the great things about Peace Corp is that there is a use for all kinds of talents and hobbies that people may have. When Mr. Kumis was in the Phillipines, he was able to use his law degree to be the attorney of anbody in the village who could not afford one.
November 7th, 2012 at 10:05 am
This sounds like an amazing opportunity! I disagree with Roger that the volunteers are not the real leaders and the leaders are the people who manage or organize the event. Leaders are not just the typical managing roles, but the beauty of leadership is that it comes in so many shapes, forms and colors. Without one another, help to aid and educate others would be impossible. It is like a jigsaw puzzle Without one piece, the bigger idea or picture is not completed or functioning. With the teamwork of volunteers and management teams, progress is possible.
November 7th, 2012 at 8:49 pm
Thanks Soof – I like your puzzle example!
November 7th, 2012 at 4:22 pm
Thanks for sharing this information!I have actually pondered after graduation, joining the Peace Corps. It can also be seen as leadership on the latter’s part; the volunteers help the citizens with what they need, and they in exchange, share with the volunteers their precious culture. The initiatives of the program is truly inspiring for everyone from all facets of working world can collaborate to build up areas for other people in need.
November 7th, 2012 at 8:51 pm
Thanks Janessa, keep thinking about it!!