Natalie Elskamp
Staff Reporter
Lucas Gillespie feels he can accomplish anything after his two years in Senegal as a Peace Corps volunteer.
Gillespie is one of four former Peace Corps volunteers, all PLU alumni, who spoke about their experiences to members of the PLU community in the Scandinavian Center on March 1.
“The skills I’ve gained from those experiences have been really unforgettable,” Gillespie said.
The panelists spoke about what led them to the Peace Corps, the struggles they encountered during their service, what they learned and their advice to students who are considering what their own journey into the Peace Corps might look like.
“Don’t rush. There’s no time limit on when you can serve in the Peace Corps,” Gillespie continued.
The panelists acknowledged the challenges that come with the experience, while also making it a point to speak to how rewarding it is.
“We’re not doing things for people; we’re building power with these people,” said Sam Rise, who was another speaker at the event.
The event was part of the sixth biennial Ambassador Chris Stevens Celebration of Service, presented by the PLU Wang Center. It preceded a keynote speaker event on diplomacy featuring Ryan Gliha.
