Kumiko Kousaka |
| Country of Service |
| Kenya |
| Dates Served |
| 2004 - 2006 |
| Volunteer Position |
| Small Business Enterprise Development |
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| Description of main volunteer activities: |
When I first reached my site, there was no manual or system in place. I worked to develop a 14 week basic business course for HIV patients and also worked with other coworkers to create a better system to lend microfinance loans to a group of patients. The majority of the patients were women who never finished elementary school (primary school). It was a challenge to adapt the classroom structure to accommodate for students who could barely read or even take notes for themselves to refer to later. I worked with other teachers to adapt to more efficient teaching styles that ensured the learning of these students.
I have also worked at primary schools and secondary schools, discussing preventative measures. |
| How Peace Corps service influenced decision to go into nursing and future plans: |
| I was already interested prior to PC, but seeing the lives of people fighting HIV/AIDS, and seeing the way people live outside from America opened my eyes at the opportunity that working as a nurse will open. The recurrent problem during my teaching career was the transience of the students. Some would be unable to attend because of the opportunistic infections they contracted. Some students passed away. It truly is horrific to think that there are still people who are exposed to illness from having no access to vaccinations or clean water. |
| Impact of RPCV Fellows experience: |
| It's been wonderful to meet other volunteers who have such a rich variation of experience. It made the transition back to school a little more simple. Coming back to a rigorous program is difficult enough, and when you’re also trying to get used to living in America again it’s even harder. |
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