I don't have it in writing yet, but according to a wonderful nurse in the Expert Unit (really, that's what it's called) of Medical Services, I have been medically cleared and my file is being passed on to Placement.
For those not familiar with the PC application process, that means I've been dentally cleared (which cost several thousand dollars to replace some old crowns, etc.), legally cleared (which was free but required submitting paperwork from everyone involved in my financial life) and now medically cleared, which cost hundreds of dollars for doctor's visits, lab work and a box of chocolates for the doctor's staff for all the help they provided in getting all the necessary paperwork completed.
The next step is Placement. As I understand it, someone in Washington will review my professional and educational background and try to match me to a country/job that needs my skills. Since I have both teaching and business consulting experience, I assume I should be fairly easy to place.
I don't know when I'll be placed, which makes planning beyond the next few weeks challenging for both my professional and personal life. What to tell a friend who wants to book a flight to come visit me in Florida in October? It would be fun, unless I'm on my way to Tonga or Niger or...
It's been almost nine months since I applied to the Peace Corps. Now that I'm on what I hope is the home stretch to my invitation, I can handle a bit more uncertainty. I don't care when I leave or where I go. I'll just be really excited when I know.
Congrats!
ReplyDeleteCongrats!!! I am so happy for you. I remember reading your post about a month ago regarding your medical deferral. I was hugely disappointed for you so I'm happy to see things are on the right track for you.
ReplyDeleteDo you have a current nomination? Or did that go down the drain with the deferral? Any ideas of where you could be going?
I'm pretty much on the same timeline as you. I received my medical clearance around when you got your deferral, but my nomination is for Pacific Islands/October (Tonga I'm assuming) so I haven't gone through placement yet. I have 13 days left until the 6-week deadline for that nomination so I'm anxiously awaiting a phone call.
But, like you, I'm happy going anywhere and doing anything so if that doesn't go through, I'll take whatever else they can give! I'm in the same boat with the uncertainty about future plans though - its hard to do anything when the next 27 months of your life are a big unknown ...
Good luck! I'll be keeping up with you to see where you end up ... perhaps we'll both be in Tonga :)