The application process took about seven months, but on October 7th, 2023, I left the United States to begin my 27-month journey abroad.
For the first 10 weeks I spent in Moldova, I was in a training site with other volunteers from my community organizational development program where we learned what we would be doing at our sites. I also studied Romanian for three hours each day. I moved in with my training host family after a week, and I began learning about the culture, traditions and language in Moldova. While many Moldovans speak both Russian and Romanian, most volunteers are assigned to learn Romanian since it is the national language.
On December 22nd, 2023, I swore in as a volunteer and moved to the village that I would live in for the next two years, in the central area of Moldova near the capital. I found out that I was placed with a youth center, and we collaborate with our local museum, culture house, library and mayor’s office.
I have loved my experience abroad so far. Moldova is referred to as “a small country with a big heart,” which I have found to be absolutely true. The people are incredibly welcoming and hospitable, and they love sharing their rich culture, traditions and food! As I continue practicing my Romanian each day, I look forward to the experiences and challenges ahead.
