Now that I’ve had a few days to digest the news of where I will be living for the next 27 months, I have had time to think about my future life in Ukraine. As I excitedly tell friends/family aboout my country location, some seem shocked to hear how ecstatic I am about living here: “You’re going to…. Ukraine? Why?” This caused me to pause and look at the the big picture.
Originally I had wanted to go to a Latin American country because this is what I had studied in school, I knew a little Spanish and I had a lot of interest in these regions. Knowing pretty early on that this option was off the table, I was thinking about where else I would really be excited to live.
Asia: I have already lived in China for a while. It was a great experience, but I feel like I defidently had my fill of this cutlure/region. It’s not really my cup of tea (although I had a GREAT time while it lasted, the prospect of returning to Asia wasn’t thrilling)
Africa: I feel pretty neutral about this region. Nothing turns me off, but nothing really peaks my interst. In my opinion, some people just tend to gravitate towards certain countries/cultries, and there just really isn’t any calling for me here.
Central Asia: My opinions of these nations are based on heresay. Unfortunately, I think I have let the opinions of others influence my outlook on this region. I commend all of the volunteers serving/about to serve here but I am glad I am not going here.
Eastern Europe: For an English Teacher, this really leaves only Eastern Europe. I don’t know very much about this region, and I like that. I have no pre-concieved notions/opinions about this region other than Eastern Europe (in the general sense) is a little more modern then a lot of other regions (sometimes nicknamed the Posh Corps). I also think its a nice jumping off point for travel. I can’t wait to try a lot of Ukrainian/Russian cuisine. I just ordered a Lonely Planet book and another book about cultures/customs in Ukraine so I can become oriented with this nation. All things considered, I REALLY am happy to be serving in Ukraine. I really look forward to the aculturation process 🙂
Daytripper7's Blog 
My invitation was mailed today…I can’t think about anything else! I don’t know what country I’m going to yet, but it’s Central Asia/Eastern Europe with a March 2011 departure. Ahhhhh!
CONGRATS!!! I’m also leaving for Ukraine in March 2011. I am also very excited to be serving in Ukraine. Orginally I was suppose to serve somewhere in Africa but when I got my invitation and read Ukraine, I was very estatic and thrilled of my location. Anyway looking forward to meet up in March! Hope to keep in touch!
Hi! I’m headed to Ukraine in March for TEFL as well! Looks like there’s already a few of us. Feel free to shoot me a note (you should have my email through this comment) if you want to connect!
Catharine
Hi! I’m leaving March 2011 too! Except I’m in community Development.. either way I’m sure our paths will cross. I was originally nominated for Latin America, as I speak the language fluently. But w/ the Peace Corps one never knows.. its part of the adventure. Congrats! I hope to meet others from my group soon!
Heyyy I just found your blog online. I’m doing TEFL in Ukraine with staging on march 21st. I’m super excited. Totally was expecting Africa cause I speak french. So excited! I’m only really worried about the language and the cold right now lol
Natalie, I am with you in the Community Development assignment. So excited!!!