10 Unforgettable Memories of my Peace Corps Service in Mali that will Warm Your Heart!

Join me in a journey back to the vibrant landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences I had during my time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali. From the moment I set foot in this beautiful country, I knew my life would be forever changed.

The Warm Welcome

As soon as I arrived in a small village in Mali, I was greeted by the warm smiles and kind hospitality of the locals. Their genuine embrace made me feel immediately at home, erasing any initial fears or doubts I had before embarking on this adventure. The way they welcomed me into their community is something I will treasure forever.

Learning the Language

Language barriers can often be a challenge, but the determination to connect with the locals led me to learn their language, Bambara. Through laughter, patience, and countless language lessons, I gradually became fluent in Bambara. This opened doors to deeper connections and allowed me to truly understand the culture and traditions of the Malian people.

Life in Alien Territory: Memories of Peace Corps Service in Mali

by Renate A. Schulz(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2871 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	218 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Making Lifelong Friends

Perhaps one of the greatest gifts of my Peace Corps experience was the opportunity to form strong bonds with the locals. The friendships I cultivated are unlike any others, built on mutual respect, trust, and shared experiences. Whether it was spending time in the marketplace, celebrating weddings, or farming alongside them, these memories and friendships will always hold a special place in my heart.

Embracing the Malian Culture

Mali is a country rich in history, traditions, and vibrant cultural celebrations. From participating in traditional dance ceremonies to learning how to cook local delicacies, I fully immersed myself in the colorful tapestry of Malian culture. The beauty and depth of their customs resonated with me, teaching me valuable lessons about community, resilience, and finding joy in the simplest of things.

Exploring the Diverse Landscapes

Mali is blessed with diverse landscapes that range from vast deserts to lush river valleys. As a Peace Corps volunteer, I had the opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders that this country has to offer. Trekking through the Sahara Desert, marveling at the mesmerizing views of the Niger River, and camping under the starry skies painted memories that will forever stay with me.

Making a Difference

One of the primary reasons I joined the Peace Corps was to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether it was teaching English, promoting health education, or collaborating on community development projects, being able to contribute in some small way brought me immense joy. Witnessing the transformation and progress within the communities I served affirmed that my efforts were worthwhile.

Celebrating Festivals

Malian festivals are an explosion of colors, music, and dance. Each community has its own unique celebrations, and I was fortunate enough to witness and take part in many of them. From the joyous rhythms of the Festival au Désert to the energetic dances during the annual Dogon Mask Festival, these festivities provided a glimpse into the soul of Mali, leaving me in awe and wonder.

Overcoming Challenges

Living in a foreign country always comes with its fair share of challenges. From adapting to different customs to facing language barriers, there were moments when I felt out of my depth. However, it was precisely in those moments that I discovered my own strength and resilience. Overcoming these challenges not only shaped me as an individual but also strengthened my commitment to the Peace Corps mission of promoting peace and understanding.

Discovering Hidden Gems

Mali is a hidden gem tucked away in West Africa, brimming with untapped potential and hidden treasures. As a Peace Corps volunteer, I had the privilege of uncovering some of these hidden gems. From stumbling upon remote villages with their unique traditions to discovering ancient archaeological sites, the feeling of discovery and exploration ignited a passion within me that still burns brightly today.

A Lifelong Impact

My memories of the Peace Corps service in Mali will forever be imprinted in my heart. The experiences I had, the people I met, and the lessons I learned have shaped the person I am today. Mali will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of connection, resilience, and the beauty of embracing different cultures.

So, if you ever have the chance to embark on a Peace Corps journey in Mali, seize it without hesitation. The memories and experiences awaiting you will be nothing short of extraordinary!

Life in Alien Territory: Memories of Peace Corps Service in Mali

by Renate A. Schulz(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2871 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	218 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Retired university professor Renate Schulz is looking for something to do with her life, some way to give back. She decides to rejoin the Peace Corps forty-six years after she first served.

Life in Alien Territory: Memories of Peace Corps Service in Mali chronicles her eleven months in Mali, West Africa, a predominantly Muslim country. At age seventy-one, she is the oldest Peace Corps volunteer among 180 other Americans.

Schulz weaves the highs and lows of her life as a volunteer in Africa into her daily journal entries. Her personal struggles with the challenges of living in third world conditions, particularly at her age, are woven into her real-life concerns about human rights in West Africa, particularly for women and children. Her time in Mali, with all its challenges and frustrations, are offset with her growing appreciation for this "alien" culture.

In this wonderfully readable travel narrative, Schulz captures the spirit of the culture, education, and people of Mali. At the same time, she shows how you are never too old to have a life-changing adventure.

About the Author

Renate A. Schulz, PhD is professor emerita at the University of Arizona. She has published widely on the learning and teaching of foreign languages and has received numerous awards. She has served in the US Peace Corps in Nigeria, Mali, and Mexico where she taught foreign languages (English and French) and trained foreign language teachers.