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