As you are reading, please keep in mind that I am only a volunteer in one part of Peace Corps. I cannot speak on behalf of Peace Corps as a whole, Peace Corps Senegal, or the community in which I am placed. Again, the contents of this website are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the U.S. government or the Peace Corps.

The Peace Corps is an agency within the United States Government who’s mission is “[t]o promote world peace and friendship through community-based development and intercultural understanding.” Through partnerships with almost 60 countries around the world, volunteers work with local partners to fulfil this mission through service in their individual communities.

In September of 2024, I will be starting my training as an Urban Agriculture Extension Agent in Senegal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Senegal?

Senegal is in West Africa, in fact, it occupies the western most point of Africa.

What part of Senegal will you be in?

During my first three months in Senegal, I will be going through a process that the Peace Corps calls Pre-Service Training (PST). This takes place in the region of Thiès. Following the completion of PST I will be placed at my permanent site in region of Saint Louis.

What language do people speak in Senegal or what language will you learn?

While the official language of Senegal is French, it is not the most widely used language. The most common language overall is Wolof; however, this can fluctuate depending on the region. Peace Corps calls the language that I’m learning Pulaar du Nord, however no one else really calls it that. Generally people just say Pulaar but if you want to be specific you can say Pulaar Fuutankoore. It is mainly spoken in the northern regions of Senegal, collectively called Fuuta Toro. Pulaar belongs to the Fula language family of which there exists various mutually intelligible languagea that are spoken across sahelian Africa.

What will you be doing while in Senegal?

The short answer is that I don’t entirely know. My service will certainly involve agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability but each volunteer’s project can vary greatly based on the wants and needs of their community. See my blog posts for updates on my work!

Why did you join the Peace Corps?

I don’t have a very succinct answer to that question, I feel like I have many different reasons. If you really want to dive in deep, send me a message – check my Contact page to find out how to reach me.