Peace Corps Application Process

So I thought I would explain/list the whole Peace Corps application process:

1. Online Application (September 2007) - 25 pages of life information, 3 letters of rec., 2 essays
2. Interview in L.A. (November 2007) - Hour and a half interview in Los Angeles, CA
3. Nomination (November 2, 2007) - basically a recommendation to be given further consideration. The program or location one is nominated for isn't guaranteed. I was nominated for the Community Development Program in the Caribbean Region.
4. Dental Clearance (February 25, 2008) - I didn't have insurance at the time of my dental checkup = $400 occlusal guard + $110 checkup fee = $510.
5. Medical Clearance (March 14, 2008) - $110 checkup fee + $300 in lab work = $410.
6. Legal Clearance (March 21, 2008) - this is only a preliminary legal clearance. As soon as you accept an invitation they are running a full on FBI Background investigation.
7. Invitation to Serve (May 21, 2008) - I was invited to serve in Belize in the Youth Development Program.
8. Acceptance to Training Program (May 25, 2008) - this basically reserves a spot in the Belize training program.
9. Staging is August 18-20 in Miami, FL - 3 day seminar on Life in the Peace Corps
10. Depart for Belize (August 20, 2008)

Alright there it is: September 2007 - August 2008. 11 months. From all of the stories and advice from Mike Buckley, John Slattery and Randy Quinn (whom all served or are currently serving in the Peace Corps) it is well worth the work/wait.

Far From Home,

Christopher Wilkins Weiss