Dana hadn't spoken a lot of Spanish before becoming a Peace Corps agriculture Volunteer in Nicaragua, but she picked it up more and more during the three months of training all Volunteers get before starting their service.   "At first it was kind of hard. It is a lot to learn but all of the sudden you start to realize that you are getting by and then you're getting by a little more and you just keep hitting these milestones. When I had my first dream in Spanish I was so excited. Now I can communicate with most anyone. "   That wasn't the only learning curve involved. Dana also had to learn a lot about agriculture, since her educational background was in the social sciences. During training she worked with local agronomists to learn about increasing food production and soil conservation. During her Volunteer service she helped local farmers plant live barriers with trees and grasses to prevent soil erosion along hillsides, where the farmers plant coffee, bananas, and plantains. "These efforts have helped to stabilize their traditional crops. In addition we are introducing new produce such as tomato, onion, and cabbage," Dana says.   The Peace Corps will give you the chance to make a difference, to challenge yourself, and to do things you never thought you could. So how far will you go? Use the links below to explore how the Peace Corps can fit into your future.     Find out more about the Peace Corps and if it is right for you.     How do you know if you are qualified? Use our quick calculator to find out.     Contact a recruiter in your area, or attend a recruiting event.     Take the first step toward the adventure of a lifetime.

	Read our privacy and freedom of information policies.