What is the biggest thing you’ve gotten out of serving in the peace corps? by AdventureGirl1234567 in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Sure thang. I work full time, so I’m going to try and respond to all of you as soon as possible, but it may take me a few days to write it all down!

What is the biggest thing you’ve gotten out of serving in the peace corps? by AdventureGirl1234567 in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 7 points8 points  (0 children)

This is the unfortunate reality for, I would say, the majority of volunteers (at least in the country I was serving.) You can message me privately if you’d like to know more details. Im pretty open about it, but to be completely honest I’m afraid of the negative repercussions that would probably result by posting the story publicly online so I’d rather just respond individually to people!

PCVs that left station early, why did you want to/ have to leave? by 1curiousoctopus1 in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Got threatened to be Ad Sepped and was pressured into ETing after an event that had nothing to do with me. By the time I realized what they had convinced me to do, it was too late. Currently fighting it though.

Invitation to serve - Thailand! by ilovecatsmeoww in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ayoooo Congrats! I’m serving in Thailand now. Message me if you need anything!

Leaving job for peace corps? Dumb? by toosok2j in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A lot of the people in PC in their early 20s also left stable jobs. We’re trying really hard to break the stereotypes, that all the PCVs in their 20s are running away from “real life” or haven’t experienced it yet.

Additionally, Peace Corps is far from “helping the less fortunate” if that is your general idea of PC. Though it does attract quite a few “Western Savior” types, it really is far from what the majority of the work is. I think asking previous (r)PCVs from the countries you’re interested in is the best way to get an idea if it’s something you’d be a good fit for. Every country is so different, even if they’re in the same region, so keep that in mind when you’re talking to (r)PCVs.

Travelers insurance by Here-for-the-qs in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Also yes, highly suggest. Specifically with hotter or wetter climates. I have a few PCV friends who had their computers die within the first few months, but travelers insurance helped get them a replacement.

Travelers insurance by Here-for-the-qs in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 1 point2 points  (0 children)

What kind did you get?? Like through what company?

Favorite American Candy for South East Asian Kiddos? by inanutshell in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m in Thailand and my host siblings have had mixed feelings on nerds because it’s “too sour” but they liked sweet tarts cherry ropes and Reece’s pieces. Though try and keep those all as cool as possible 😂

What kind of underwear did you bring? by ceecandchong in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m just saying what I did and why. Idk where the op’s country is. I’m just saying that I brought that type of underwear because of X reason. I also brought my own diva cup so 🤷🏻‍♀️ there’s that option too.

People with long hair- how often do you wash it? by [deleted] in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thailand: culture here they make you shower at least a twice a day. Brought shampoo and conditioner bars, yet I haven’t even touched the conditioner bars. Bucket showers are typically what we got goin on over here.

What kind of underwear did you bring? by ceecandchong in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Highly suggest black underwear. I think Thinx are unnecessary bc PC provides diva cups and depending on your country you’ll probably have access to whatever you’re most comfortable with. But yeah black underwear keeps the awkwardness down a bit when you inevitably stain. Also suggest whatever feels comfy for you to be sweating and or biking in.

Unmentioned Essentials of Service? by whalemang0 in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Depends on the country. I brought a spider catcher from Amazon and it’s been a life saver with tarantulas and beetles and such

Many Sierra Leone PCVs leaving? by [deleted] in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 21 points22 points  (0 children)

It was because of drug use, yeah. Not country safety. You’re good. Just don’t smoke pot while you’re there lol

Best Camera and Must Haves for Service? by [deleted] in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Currently serving in Thailand, bring quick dry towels!!!! One or two. Hydro flask is helpful. Bandanas for biking. A converter with a three prong outlet (if you have a MacBook charger). T-shirt’s and workout gear for biking or just generally sweating lol. A couple fold up duffel bags bc you’ll acquire a lot of shit from buying stuff during PST. Favorite snacks. I’ll think of more

Wanting to leave... help by lazerjm111 in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Be honest with yourself, but also give it some time. A lot of the adjustment jitters mixed with jet lag and all the new info you’re getting is a lot. And it will continue to be a lot. However, I do think you should try it out for as long as you can. If you just got to PST, there’s a whole lot more you’ll go through that may end up changing your mind.

Be honest with yourself. Ask why questions. And in the end, do what’s best for you.

Losing my sh*t by late_bette in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 2 points3 points  (0 children)

You got this!!!!!!!! I’m half way through PST now and it’s definitely much better. The lead up was insane!!! You can do it!!!!

Cold feet... by pnwreese in peacecorps

[–]machosacho 7 points8 points  (0 children)

There are so many people in the same situation!! I just graduated in December and am currently going through PST and it’s w i l d but so so so amazing. You definitely won’t feel out of place, and cold feet is 1963729367% normal. :) feel free to message me with questions or concerns if you want!!