THE WAIT IS OVER! I finally received my medical clearance to go work in Cambodia!

To those who have been following my blog posts regularly or semi-regularly for the past 2 years or so, you will already know about my passion for Public Health and traveling to do community service in different countries. To those who haven’t, well, let’s just say this opportunity is a BIG DREAM come true for me!

When I started my undergraduate career at USG, I was just a junior trying to lead student service organizations so that I can do some good in the community. Now, 5 years, numerous hardships, and a Master degree (also from USG) later, I can’t believe I am about to start living my dream!

Through my leadership experiences on campus, I have learned so much and grown into the person I am today. Thanks to the guidance of the USG staff and faculty, I feel more confident and prepared for the work I am about to begin. Among all the schools I have attended, I truly felt that this was the place that had encouraged me the most to reach for my goals.

I also want to do a big shoutout to Lynn Cook, Dr. Negin Fouladi, Dr. Jess O’Hara, Emily Nelson, Rachel Wolohan, Kristen Koehler, and all my PHSC and MPH-PHPP faculty at USG to thank them for all the support and opportunities they have given me.

Now, you may be wondering what it is that I’ll be doing in Cambodia. I am happy to announce that I am so fortunate and honored to be accepted as a Peace Corps Volunteer (PCV). I will specifically be volunteering as a Health Extension Volunteer in one of Cambodia’s districts for 27 months.

“Peace Corps Cambodia‘s Community Health Education project aims to assist Cambodian individuals and communities, particularly women and children, to improve their overall health and well-being and increase their capacity to address health-related issues. Volunteers work with health center staff, Village Health Volunteers, and schools to build the capacity of people to address their health needs. Volunteers work in the areas of maternal and child health, water and sanitation, nutrition and gardening, reproductive health and non-communicable diseases.”

I am beyond excited to begin this next chapter of my life. Living in a foreign country for over 2 years definitely won’t be easy, but I am looking forward to the challenges and rewarding experiences that will come my way. I have no doubt that it will help me grow as a person and a public health professional.

Take a look at this video to see what life as a PCV in Cambodia might be like:

It definitely is an interesting and unique opportunity. I can’t believe I am leaving behind my comfortable life and loved ones behind and leaving so soon! I will depart from home this coming Friday (July 14th) so I only have 4 more days to finish packing and saying my goodbyes!

Follow along with me on my next big adventure!

I shall update you all again in 3 weeks from Cambodia!