Its Official…Step Three: Nomination is complete.

Yes, that means my official nomination has arrived. I am so excited. I had a few things in my mind that were preferred needs regarding my geographic location and work assignment. I got all but one in my nomination. I wanted Eastern Europe, specifically any country that was previously a part of the Soviet Union. I wanted a seasonal climate, nothing too hot or too cold. I wanted an advanced business development or general business development assignment. And I wanted Russian speaking, thinking that Russian would be the most useful to me after I completed my service.

The one thing I did not get was the Russian language. But I am so ecstatic with the geographic location and assignment that the language is a small hiccup. I will be serving in one of three countries with three differing languages, three differing alphabets and all the languages have differing branches of origin. I am thrilled to serve in a country that was once a part of the Soviet Union, which means that democracy and free trade are new concepts. All countries have spring, summer, fall and winter. All countries have freezing winters and 100F degree summers, but nothing last for too long.

Here is an excerpt for the Peace Corps information on my advanced business placement assignment:

Many Eastern European governments invited Business Development Volunteers shortly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Despite a high level of education and a growing interest in business, many Eastern Europeans have been not been trained in the skills needed for success in a free market economy. Volunteers are addressing that need by transferring skills such as strategic planning, budget forecasting, marketing, and management. Whether working with a local NGO to improve their image and increase fundraising capacity, designing the marketing strategy of a local business, or creating outreach programs for a city government, Business Development Volunteers offer a fresh perspective and many desirable skills.