Pauza Magazine Spring 2013 | Page 25

pcv projects

Related Links

Peace Corps Response : www . peacecorps . gov / response /
Bitola Zoo : www . zoobitola . mk /
Zoo FB Page : Зоолошка Градина Битола
crosswalks !
By Patrice Koerper , MAK 11
• The number of cars
has increased dramatically
and larger models can be
The biggest difference between spotted more often . traditional PC service and RC is that in RC you hit the ground running with the goal of producing
• The new “ fast ” train from Bitola to Skopje is super clean , offers results quickly and efficiently . The complimentary coffee and water most challenging part of being a and shows traditional music and
RCV is that you are still facing all promotional videos of Macedonia the issues and situations you faced
– my Macedonian friends did not in traditional PC service , but with believe me !
much less time to adapt or deal
• Now you can get all sorts of
with them . This makes RC a much more intense , but equally rewarding experience .
fruits and veggies year round . In the past , the seasons completely dictated our options .
Another question I ’ m frequently
• People ’ s
schedules
are
asked is “ Has anything changed much more structured ! Most of my
in Macedonia ?” The answer is another resounding “ Yes ”:
20 and 30-something friends are working or involved in volunteer
• Drivers in Bitola and Skopje activities , which is fantastic , but are paying much more attention to makes meeting for coffee harder . :)

When people hear I have served three times in PC , one of their first questions is always , “ Would you serve again ?” The answer is a resounding “ Yes .”

The good news is the things that really matter haven ’ t changed a bit . People are just as warm and friendly , and families are as strong and caring as ever . Friendships still last a lifetime , and generosity remains the glue that holds everything together .
Bitola is my second home , and Peace Corps seems to have become a healthy habit . All of the magic moments , memories , triumphs , trials , visits and volunteer assignments have been woven so tightly together that they ’ ve endured the test of time , the wear and tear of travel , and the stretching of friendships across oceans , continents and Internet connections .
The final question I ’ m always asked in Macedonia is , “ When are you coming back ?” I just tell everyone , not to worry , има време .
, Response Corps American Corner Program , Thanksgiving Friends , Fun & Food Spring 2013 – 25