Interview with David Peterson, October 13, 2023

Interview Summary

David Peterson served in Panama, 1967-1969. He had studied Spanish and psychology. His job as an occupational counselor at a vo-tech school in Panama City was a good fit. In Spanish, David interviewed applicants, administered aptitude tests in the four largest cities of Panama, and evaluated student performance. David joined PC for travel, adventure, and to make a positive contribution to his host country. He did all three. David went to Chile and Uruguay for training. He visited Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. He was unable to extend for a third year for fear of losing his Vietnam War PC deferment. In 2005, David spent 30 days with Crisis Corps, the precursor to PC Response, as an applicant services specialist helping Hurricane Katrina victims apply for FEMA relief. David compiled an album and wrote a chapter in his book, A Mind of His Own, about his PC experiences.

Interview Keyword

Peace Corps (U.S.) Panama (Country of service) PCV US-LA (Country of service) Crisis Corps 1967-1969 (Date of service) PCV 2005 (Date of service) Crisis Corps Peace Corps Volunteer Job: Education Panama Chile Uruguay Argentina Bolivia Peru Mexico United States Peace Corps (U.S.)--1960-1970 Peace Corps (U.S.)--2000-2010 Peace Corps (U.S.)—History Vietnam War Regional conflict Spanish

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Interview Usage

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