The following excerpts are from Volunteers who currently serve or recently served in Malawi. These excerpts are about the training period, which I will go through from July 3 - September 1.
"An overwheming period - new culture, new language, and new people. Living with the host family is as hands-on as it gets in order to practice everything learned. An opportunity to get to know your fellow Volunteers, because soon after, you may be a two-day mini-bus ride away from each other." - Jake Farnum
"Don't worry about the language - you'll learn it. Don't worry about the culture - you'll find a way to accept it, and it will accept you. Malawi is a wonderfully welcoming place and you'll grow to love it! It is a good idea to bring some fun things to do with your host family like Frisbee and cards, and pictures of America and your family to share." - Laura Lanwermayer
"It is important to remember that the 'Getting Started' process may seem slow by the standards that you have set for yourself. It is normal to enter your time of service with a lot of enthusiasm, energy and willingness to 'get things done.' Keep in mind, however, that you will also need to have an initial period of gaining the trust of your community, adapting to a new culture, and learning a new language. These things take time and patience, but they are essential to a successful assignment.
Your pre-service training will help you to gain the skills that will be necessary for this process. If it feels like the beginning of your service is getting off to a slow start as far as 'work' is concerned, remember that you are doing some of the hardest and most important work of your two years. When you enter your community, take the time to learn about yourself and those around you. It makes a world of difference, and eventually it can make a difference in the world." - Kristof Nordin
"Training prepared me well for life in Malawi, especially living with my host family. This is a very intense period. Before I left the States, I left self-addressed stamped envelopes with my family and friends and stressed how much mail I'd need at first. Don't expect to be in touch with people via telephone during this time." - Naomi Bremer
"Brace yourself. Training is a challenge! But...your days with your village family are a once-in-a-lifetime experience and will form some indelible memories. How will I ever forget that one evening when my village family and I playfully balanced mangoes on our heads while walking home along the dusty path in the fading colors of the day? Believe me, the challenges are well worth the journey. Just open yourself to the experience, let it happen, and you'll know what I mean." - Patricia Wundrow
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