Early in 2011 I came across an opportunity through Rotary International that caught my interest and seemed to be exactly what I was looking for in my education and international experience. It was an opportunity to apply for a Professional Development Certificate in Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand. Chulalongkorn University is one of 6 Universities in the world designated as Rotary Peace Centers.
I began looking into the process to apply for the scholarship which is to take place from February to May 2012. There are only 25 spots in the program and it is a worldwide competition.
My first step was to get support from my workplace seeing as I would be away for 3 months if I was successful in the competition. I then had to get sponsorship from my local Rotary Club in Tilbury... it was then on to an extensive application process and essay.
I submitted my application and waited....Finally in August I was contacted by Rotary District 6380 to attend for a panel interview in Michigan. I then was selected to move on to the next stage which was at the world selection committee stage....again it felt like a looong wait!
In October 2011...the day I had my wisdom teeth out I received notice that I was one of the successful applicants!!! Seeing as I wasn't in the greatest shape after having teeth pulled it took me a moment or two to process the information!
Time has now flown by since October with all the preparations to be done. I have been busy making arrangements both at home and work for being away for three months. As well I have started my homework assignments, filled out a ton of paperwork, travel vaccinations, and visa application. The countdown is on now with only 3 weeks to go!!!