If only I had had more access to the internet while in Burkina, I possibly would have found out about Green Cross and its program in Burkina Faso. Then, I would have been able to work with them as a third-year volunteer. The three main focuses/programs of Green Cross are so fundamentally what I want to do it's scary:
1. Preventing and resolving conflicts over natural resources
2. Addressing the environmental consequences of wars and conflicts
3. Promoting values and behavior changes.
The irony of it all is that several months before finishing my service, I was seriously considering staying for a third year. I decided against it because I didn't think I'd find anything in Burkina related to my new focus. Lesson learned: I should have actually researched the possibilities, rather than assume there was nothing! Grrr. On the plus side, this organization will be something for me to keep in mind for later on, especially if I decide I want to work overseas again.
Tomorrow I am sitting in on a graduate class at American University, titled Environment and Politics. Should be very interesting! Also, I'll hopefully get a much better feel for the dynamics of the program. Danielle, a good friend and recent graduate of American's International Peace and Conflict Resolution grad program, has been so helpful to me in finding out more about the department, and I am so grateful to her! Thanks D :) not to mention Andrea, for putting me up in her house and being a wonderful hostess.
Excellent lesson Brandi. Research the possibilities instead of assuming there are none. Teach that to everyone you can. I'm very proud of you!
Dad
Posted by: Larry Church | January 21, 2009 at 05:55 PM
It's easy being a hostess when I have someone awesome to host!
Green Cross looks awesome, and like you said, that can be your ticket back if you choose to go that route. Imagine how much more you'd be able to do with that program once you have your degree. Maybe you could get a more permanent position than you could if you just took a third year in Burkina.
Posted by: Andrea | October 14, 2008 at 05:28 PM