La revedere!

Thanks for checking me out. I'm leaving for Moldova on June 9th to serve as an Agribusiness and Rural Business Development Volunteer with the Peace Corps for 27 months. Moldova is tucked between Ukraine, Romania, and the Black Sea. The country has a rich history with its roots tied to Romania, but its culture in the last half century has been overshadowed by the Soviet Union.

In regards to agribusiness, the country of Moldova is struggling with a free-market economy since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Under Soviet rule, the farmers were forced to work under a collective-farm system, so there were no private farms operating for a profit. After gaining independence, the new government dispersed land parcels for the farmers to own and manage themselves. Even with the constant efforts to improve the social conditions in Moldova, families earn on average the equivalent of $250-300 a month.

To do my part, I'll be teaming up with farmers, entrepreneurs, community groups, and local governments to help facilitate the transition from the Soviet system to a free market system. Over 17% of Moldova's economy is supported through agriculture (< 2% in US), so it's important that this situation improves. Ultimately, I hope to help the people any way possible, whether it be through agribusiness or not.

For the first three months I'll train and study language (romanian), culture, history, safety, work duties, cooking, health, etc. I'll live with a host family during training, and then it's my choice to either live on my own or with another host family for the remaining two years. I've been told that my village most likely won't have indoor plumbing, but I should have internet access in some places through dial-up. I'm sure I'll have some interesting stories, pictures, and videos to share as I spend more time with the natives, so check back from time to time if you are interested in learning about Moldova or just want to laugh at my struggles.

Please leave some comments and keep me updated on what's going on with your life in the grand ole USA. I'll be on facebook too, but this blog will help me keep a chronological journal that I can send to everyone. I'll have 48 days of vacation time over the course of 27 months, so come visit Europe if you have the chance. No weddings until I get back.

Cheers,
Vince