Trip Home - Frequently Asked Questions

Tuesday, July 30, 2007

While I was home in the States, there were a few questions I was always asked, so I figured I would take some time and answer them now.

When are you finished with the Peace Corps?

While I have not decided the exact date, it will probably be between April 15, 2008 and June 15, 2008. A lot of this will depend on what projects I have going on early next year and what stage they are in, job offers, and if there is a need for me here.

What are you going to do when you get done with Peace Corps?

While I wish I could give you a straightforward answer, I can’t, nor can I predict the future. In several ways, I am torn with trying to decide my next step but one I think about everyday. Since going to college, it seems I have always done something alittle different, whether it was going to UGA for college, going to work in Pennsylvania for 3 summers, or even joining the Peace Corps. Living in one place all my life is not something I truly want, but at times, I do envy it. Being on the go and doing something a little different all the time can wear you down. So, I am trying to decide if I want to focus my job search in Atlanta or go anywhere in the world. I just don’t know yet. Ideally, I’d like to live in Atlanta but work internationally. While I am still young, I am somewhat ready to live in a place, hopefully the developed world for some time in which I can settle down.

When it comes to what I want to do, I want to have a job that meshes well with my passions and interests but also provide a salary that I can live off of comfortably. Some people have jobs just for financial reasons and that is their only prerogative. Others have jobs just based off their passions and don’t care about money. I am hoping to have a job somewhat down the middle. As to what that job is, I am looking at ones in the international business arena as well as some companies that I believe would be enjoyable environments to work at.

While I say all this, my next step will probably be to a place somewhat different with a job that I will hopefully enjoy and can live off of. Basically, I don’t know for certain, but have ideas, and know I want to be happy.

I’m sure this isn’t the best response, primarily because I am holding back a few thoughts. As to why, my interests span several sectors and getting into details only clouds things at this time.

Hopefully this time next year I can give you a concrete answer.

Was it hard coming back to the States?

Not at all. I do not know if it was because I live in a city where I have modern conveniences, stay in contact with many family and friends back home, read several American newspapers almost daily, possibly just have an ability to adapt easily, or a list of other reasons I can’t think of.

Do you think it will be hard to go back to Senegal?

No. Realize that this is something I signed up and committed myself too. I have no option but to go back.

It turned out it was a little tougher than I thought to get readjusted but not detrimental.