Aspiration Statement

The first "assignment" I was given was to update my resume and create an aspiration statement. The intent behind the aspiration statement is to introduce me to my Peace Corps post in Armenia. Below I have included my aspiration statement for those that are curious!

Aspiration Statement

Holly Bezak

Armenia

March 26^th, 2016

A.    Three professional attributes that you plan to use during your Peace Corps service and how these will help you fulfill your aspirations and commitment to service.

             When thinking about attributes that I plan to use during my Peace Corps service, my adaptability immediately comes to mind. Through various life experiences I have maintained the ability to be flexible in almost any situation. My first job in retail taught me how to move from one project to another seamlessly. Then, through experiences traveling to Italy and Mexico, I have come to learn that not everything goes the way you plan. Being flexible and adaptable will help reduce inevitable frustrations that I will encounter along the way.

           In addition, determination is another attribute that will facilitate in my commitment to serve. With clear goals set, I will do just about anything to make sure they are reached. Whether it’s finding resources when they are scarce, conducting research on an otherwise unexplored topic, or even asking for help when necessary, my drive to achieve a goal is unwavering.
           Finally, throughout my service my diligence and detailed oriented nature will no doubt come in handy. As an Assistant Director at a group childcare center, I have come to realize that a great deal of organization and care must go into each project to ensure it’s smooth operation and success.
           Throughout my 27 months of service in Armenia I hope to effect change by drawing from these three attributes. In many cases change might mean a huge shift in thinking or an amendment to a current law, but in fact I mean quite the opposite. I aspire only to change the thoughts of just one child, or one teacher, or one woman who might think they can’t achieve their goals. Whether it’s to attend college, drive a car, or simply master past tense, the smallest amount of encouragement can effect change. I hope to be that encouragement.

B.    Identify two strategies for working effectively with host country partners to meet expressed needs.

             The two strategies I intend to utilize during my time in Armenia are patience and a sincere desire to learn.

             Patience, because working in an unfamiliar setting with unfamiliar people will be a slow and ever evolving process. Being patient will allow me to take time to understand my counterparts needs more readily.

             A sincere desire to learn, because as much as I am in Armenia to teach, I am also in Armenia to learn. Assessing and addressing the needs of my community members can only happen after I’ve taken the time to get to know what is important, and what is valued by those around me.

C.    Your strategy for adapting to a new culture with respect to your own cultural background

            First and foremost, I must learn the language. Taking an interest in learning Armenian will show my commitment and sincerity. Assimilation into any culture is made easier when there is no language barrier. Secondly, I must understand that I will be seen as an American. There is no avoiding this. The way I dress, the way I speak, and the things I choose to value will automatically set me apart. I believe just being aware of my identity will allow me to be more comfortable with my role in the community and therefore more comfortable integrating into the culture.

D.    The skills and knowledge you hope to gain during pre-service training to best serve your future community project.

'           During Pre-Service Training I hope to gain a variety of new skills. My first goal is to learn the language because as I mentioned above, learning the language is essential. Next I hope to learn about Armenia culture and history, with opportunities for exposure and exploration. Another thing I hope to learn is more about education in Armenia. The education system appears quite different than what I have experienced in the United States, and I hope to be introduced to that before beginning at my permanent site. Lastly, I hope to gain information and strategies on how to improve the lives of Armenian people outside of my main job description as an English Education Teacher. I assume there will be opportunities for learning and improvement outside of the classroom. By the end of training my goal is to be able to recognize those opportunities and employ culturally sensitive and appropriate ways to manage those opportunities in a safe and fun way. 

E.    How you think Peace Corps service will influence your personal and professional aspirations after your service ends.

             There are many paths to choose from after Peace Corps service and I have yet to decide which path to take. Even though my path is unclear, there are a number of things I anticipate Peace Corps service will influence. One influence will be on my cultural and self-awareness. For the most part, I have had the privilege of being part of the dominant culture. Living in Armenia for 27 months will bring awareness about my identity that I am unable to realize while living in the United States. Additionally, I imagine I will want to continue working to improve the lives of children and families. Peace Corps service will encourage that passion of mine and inspire new and different ways of fulfilling that passion. But first things first, 27 months in Armenia is a good place to start!