This morning I officially swore in as a Peace Corps Volunteer! After 9 weeks of training, health charlas and spanish classes we are ready to start our service as Peace Corps Volunteers!
We had a beautiful ceremony at the residence, the Ambassador of the United States in Quito. There were speeches given by our country director Parmer Heacox, the Ambassador of the US Heather Hodges and three of my fellow trainees.
We sang the national anthem of both the United States of America and the Republic of Ecuador and took the following oath.
“I, Leana Napoles, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.”
After the ceremony we had a fancy breakfast of real bagels, cream cheese and fruit salad –such a treat for us since we are now accustomed to eating a hardy Sierra breakfast (a HUGE plate of potatoes, rice and butter). After talking a walk around the grounds of the Ambassador’s residence, we all headed back to our hostels to change for our celebration BBQ. This event was organized by the VAC (Volunteer Action Committee) which is made up of current volunteers who represent each training class and act as a liaison between volunteers and PC staff. I had a great time in the sun throwing around the football and spending time with my fellow volunteers.
That night I had the opportunity to go into downtown Quito to meet up with some current volunteers for “Ladies Night” in the Mariscal. I was invited by a friend of mine who is a third year Peace Corps volunteer and works with headquarters in Quito. After a little bit of dancing at Ladies Night we headed over to a salsa club which is known for its amazing salsa dancers who come from all over the country. I felt like I was in the movie Havana Nights! It was an amazing experience to learn some salsa moves from the locals and to celebrate being sworn in. We all headed back to the hostel where both the Youth and Families and Health Programs met up to celebrate.
Here are some pictures of the swearing in ceremony!
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Hey Leana! mariah told me to check out your blog. i had a chance to chat with your parents last week — sounds like you’re having a great time. good luck with everything!