Daily Schedule for PST

Hello all,

I am sorry, but this post will fail to be as elaborate as the last one. I am settling into my host family nicely - into a routine. I am sorry if my grammer does not reflect that ofa college graduate, but many of the keys on my computer stick (perhaps I should always use this excuse to hide me from criticism for my usually poor spelling abilities?). Anyway, I thought it would summarize my typical day - it really isn't all that exciting though. after waking around seven in the morning and having abreakfast of oil and herbs and yougurt with pita bread (kobz) I have my colloquial Arabic lesson from eight to noon. After a quick falafel sandwitch break, I go to the Youth Center (murkaz as-Shabab) for some sort of training. I usually return to the home of my host family around 3:30 and have a proper lunch (the mid-day meal is the largest). The rest of the day will vary from studying spendin g time with the host family to a plethora of other possibilities.

Today at the youth center we had our most informative session yet. Two current Youth Development Volunteers spoke and answered our questions and abated many of our concerns. Apparently, training is the most stressful time with the the most regimented schedule.  Once we receive our posts, there will be much more time for R&R.

They did, however, warn us of the challenges that remain ahead. By its nature, the youth development program is extremely unstructured, at first glance to a fault, but I suppose time will tell (current volunteers do not think the lack of firm direction is a disadvantage). They did however say it will seem as though I am not being productive for the first few months- which should wisely be spent developing a favorable repore with the community.  Dan and Bill also informed us of a Youth Olympics they put together, which will bring children from all Youth Centers volunteers work at to Amman in late August. They recieved a grant from the Peace Corps and from the Jordanian Higher Council on Youth, under whose mandate all Youth Centers operate. This is all for now.