Lily W.

1. What got you interested in Peace Corps?

When I began to think about a career in international relations, I reached out to alumni in the field to hear about their career paths. A couple people I talked to had done Peace Corps, and they told me about what an eye-opening and valuable experience it was for them.

2. What projects are you working on with your community?

I have three partner teachers at my school. All together I co-teach 22 classes a week with them, from 2nd grade to 12th grade. It is a lot of work, but fun too! My main partner and I also host an English club twice a week.

3. What strategies have you used to integrate into your community?

The great part about working in a school is that it is central to the community. Every time I walk down the street I see at least one of my students, and we say “hello.” While I haven’t yet actively sought out events to attend, I have made sure to accept invitations to holiday concerts and the high school reunion event.

4. What is a highlight of your time in service so far?

I got to attend my school’s festival of ethnicities in December 2023. The kids dressed up in their national costumes, danced, and presented plays and food. It was beautiful.

5. What have you enjoyed most about the community where you are serving?

I’ve really enjoyed the food. My host mother Nina is an amazing cook, and I’ve gotten to try a variety of Moldovan soups, dishes, and desserts. At school, I treasure the times when the teachers gather together to celebrate someone’s birthday or just grab a couple minutes to drink tea and have a snack. It’s still hard for me to participate in conversation, but I’m very familiar with the phrase “Este foarte gustos!” (It’s very tasty!)

6. What are some of the most important things you've learned from your community?

Before joining the Peace Corps, I don’t think I realized how much hospitality matters. My community—my host parents, co-teachers, and other colleagues—have been incredibly welcoming and generous. I appreciate how patient they’ve been when we speak Romanian together. I appreciate all the fruit that is given to me and the accompanying reminder, “It is winter and fruit has vitamins!” My community has made me feel cared for even far away from home, and I hope I can do the same for other people in the future.

7. How do you spend time when you are not working on a project?

In my free time, I catch up on sleep, go for walks, or visit my friend in the next town over.

8. What are you looking forward to in your remaining time as a Peace Corps Volunteer?

My time as a Volunteer just started, so I am looking forward to getting to know my partners better and meeting more of the community. I’m really excited to experience summer in Moldova, particularly the sunflower fields.

9. What are you looking forward to in your remaining time as a Peace Corps Volunteer?

I will buy more fruit and share it with people!