Interview with Tristan Menachof, August 19, 2020

Interview Summary

Tristan Menachof's family focused on “giving back” and understanding diversity. He saw Peace Corps as an opportunity to fulfill those values. He studied religion at Coe College, including studying abroad in Southeast Asia. Medical tests and records were the most arduous part of his Peace Corps application process. Morocco was his preference. Language and cultural training were excellent. However, strategies provided to engage in the work expected of him didn’t work out in his assignment. Menachof was originally assigned to a youth development project. However, his work evolved into an environment project. He saw himself as a resource the Peace Corps offered to his village. He recognized that communities know what they want. Personal relationships are valued. However great the challenges he faced in Peace Corps, he feels his experience will help him to face anything in his future. Menachof was medically separated after 16 months of service. He still wonders how much he could have done if he had stayed his full term.

Interview Keyword

Values Coe College Religion AmeriCorps Medical clearance Community-based training Harhoura, Morocco Mirrit Tagleft, Morocco Arabic (Language) Dar Shabab Youth Center Privacy Harassment Challenges Environment Medical separation Morocco (Country of service) 2017-2019 (Date of service) Peace Corps Volunteer Job: Youth Development Darija (Language) Peace Corps Volunteer Job: Environment Peace Corps Volunteer Job: Youth in Development

Interview LC Subject

Peace Corps (U.S.) Peace Corps (U.S.)--Morocco Morocco Acculturation Communication and culture Culture Culture shock Intercultural communication Interpersonal communication and culture Interpersonal relations Interpersonal relations and culture Language and culture Language and languages Lifestyles Manners and customs Voluntarism Volunteers

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