Welcome to Service

Today is the day I travel to Sierra Leone to begin my service and become an official Peace Corps Trainee (PST). Having applied October 1st and accepted in early January, it is both mind boggling and relieving to know that this day has finally come.

Two days ago, I was a dumpster fire of emotions that I was worried I wouldn't be able to put out, a ball of nerves I feared I couldn't untangle. Today, I feel sure of myself, excited, and ready to go. I have my amazing, how-did-I-get-so-lucky friends and family at home, and my 47 fellow trainees and new friends to thank for that.

A couple things for you all to know before I take off:

1) "Salone" is the slang word for Sierra Leone. Hence "Home Salone," if you didn't get the joke the first time.
2) I haven't been to Sierra Leone before, if you were thinking that because of the "2" in the title. This is, however, my second time in West Africa.
3) Below are the Peace Corps mission, goals, and core expectations for Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV)

The Peace Corps Mission and Goals
Corps Expectations for PCVs

4) I ask that you all erase any preconceived notions and assumptions about Sierra Leone. Keep an open mind as I relay information about my experience. And trust that I'll be safe and happy in my new home (cough cough mom and dad.)